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- #11
Southern by choice
Herd Master
We test ours once per year for CAE and Johnnes. We don't do CL testing for a. the cost b. no indications that any have it. Most of the people we know don't test for CL, some do. Some just test for CAE and not Johnnes. We know one who tests for CAE, TB and Brucelliosis. Not sure why they test for TB and Brucelliosis from what I understand there hasn't been a case in livestock since the 40's. That breeder is also a large animal vet. I guess I need to ask him why?
We get fecals run at the state lab twice per year on every animal we have. So, we can provide that documentation. We like to do that because we have such low numbers we can show the parasite profile on the entire herd from an independent lab. We do other fecals ourselves as needed, mostly kids looking for coccidia. While we have never had a worm problem, we have had an issue the last two kidding seasons with coccidia. But, that is really more of an environmental factor than anything else it's been so wet, and overstocking which is our fault.
Most of the animals I sell are from referrals from our vet. Second, referrals from breeders we know who don't breed Nigerians, but standards. Third, referrals from other people who have bought animals from us, or a repeat sale to a previous buyer. Third, website. Fourth, Craigslist.
We know someone here in Wake County who got burned. Not going to say the breed other than they were standards from a supposedly reputable breeder in VA. These were their first goats. Bought 3 does from them. And then paid $1500 for the son of an ADGA National Champion from western part of NC as a herd sire. Does, had CL, gave it to the buck. He had them all put down.
That is why I don't understand the thinking behind not testing for CL. Not having lumps is not really a great indicator. For a little bit of $ it would have spared them thousands.
I have been inspired
We have been doing this for 5 years
Going to do a thread on my farm journal on the entire " strange trip" it's been going from a "keeper" to a "breeder"
Been ups and downs, started with 3 does
We've had as many as 30
It would be informative to those just starting oit
Glad you have been inspired!
I think the first 3-4 years there is so much you learn and end up tweaking and adjusting and like you said "Ups and downs", lots of goats, reducing #'s etc I think it is VERY helpful for those starting out to understand sometimes your goals, needs, or focus may change but those experiences along the way are worth it!
That is what I am explaining in my part 2 update about our entire re-focus.
I just need to find the time! UGH
http://www.backyardherds.com/threads/southerns-long-overdue-update-part-1.29977/