Nigerian Dwarf Goats
It all started with, “I think we should get a goat to eat the blackberries,” and somehow led to acquiring a small but pedigreed Nigerian Dwarf Goat herd. We are now making our own organic cheese and dairy products as well as goat milk soaps. We have become very fond of these characters and enjoy their quirky and graceful contribution to the farm. We are members of the American Dairy Goat Association and our herd name is RTB.
We breed goats for milk production which means primarily for strong dairy characteristics however, we also recognize the need to pass along proper caprine conformation. So, we endeavor to mingle the two aspects in the hopes of producing correct dairy stature. The reality is that we just can't keep every kid so some goats must go for sale. We want to provide the home milker with a great udder while appeasing the judges when our farm’s prodigy is shown for appraisal or competition.
Herd Management
Our herd’s health is managed with predominately holistic methods however, we will use conventional medications when absolutely necessary. We use the milk for ourselves so we use all medications carefully. The goats enjoy access to pasture at all times and are fed unsprayed hay grown by a neighboring farm. They also enjoy organic carrots, celery, squash, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, greens, pumpkin seeds and occasional apples and pears. Does in milk are fed organic dairy goat pellets and / or sprouted organic barley and peas. All goats get a Vitamin Mineral and Pregnancy & Lactation supplement formulated right here in our herbal apothecary. We use herbs to manage pests and parasites. Our goats were purchased from CAE and CL negative herds and we use Washington State University's Caprine Biosecurity screen to recheck. Finally, we shower them with love and attention and it shows in the acceptance, trust and affection that they return to us. We are currently participating in Linear Appraisal and DHI milk test.
For resources, sales and discussion join us on Facebook in the Nigerian Goats of the Pacific West group.
It's an obsession but it's pleasing.....Bob Weir