 GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Pygmies are genetically small, compact, full-bodied, well-muscled, dwarf-like goats. Their body circumference, in relation to their height and weight, is proportionately greater than other goats. Their heads and legs are short compared to body length. They are hardy, alert, animated, good-natured and gregarious.
ORIGIN
The pygmy goat came from the Cameroons of West Africa. They were first imported to the Benson's Animal Farm in New Hampshire in the mid-1930s. In 1959, Heinze Ruhe imported 14 pygmy goats for the Oakland Bay Zoo at a delivery cost of $3,000 each.
PYGMY PURPOSE
- Pygmies make excellent pets because they are so loveable. They can be house broken and trained to do tricks. They can be taken for walks or travel with you in the car.
- Pygmies make good show animals. They are small, easy to transport and adjust well to all climates while traveling.
- Pygmies are good milk producers. Milked regularly (twice a day, every day), they will produce for almost ten months. Production averages 2-2.5 pounds a day which is over a quart. The milk is sweet and delicious, ranging from 3.5-10% butterfat.
- Pygmy goats are edible. Their heavier muscling tendency and "easy keeping" ability yields more chevron (goat meat) for their size than most other breeds.
- Other major uses for Pygmies in America are medical research and space exploration.
 PYGMY TERMS
- DOE: a female goat
- BUCK: a male goat
- WETHER: a castrated male
- KID: young goat under a year old
FEED
Pygmies love to browse. They are easy keepers and will eat alfalfa hay or 80-20 Complete Horse Pellets. Their diet can be supplemented with sweet feed or dairy goat ration. They should always have a fresh supply of clean water and a trace mineral salt brick available.
HOUSING
Pygmy goats are very sociable and happier with another goat as a friend. A draft-free, 8'x10' shed with elevated sleeping and feeding places will accommodate four adult Pygmies. An attached area with a 4' high fence provides the fresh air and exercise area needed by these active, fun-loving animals.
GENERAL HEALTH
Pygmy goats are generally hardy little animals and can live to be 12-15 years of age. They are born with horns and most breeders disbud young kids when they are a week or two old. It is possible to leave pygmy goats with horns and they can also be shown with them. If pygmy goats are born hornless or polled it is considered a disqualifying fault.
The best way to determine if your pygmy goat is sick is to learn the normal behavior of all the goats in your herd. It is best to observe your animals everyday to determine their behavior. Often changes are very subtle; perhaps the goat is standing off away from the rest of the herd or maybe it is not eating. Any deviation from a goat's typical behavior should be considered further. Look for other signs such as coughing, straining, lying down, pacing or other "different" behavior. It would also be wise to assess your goat's vital signs. Normal values for pygmy goats are:
- Rectal Temperature: 102.5-104.5 degrees F or 39.2-40 degrees C
- Pulse: 60-80 beats per minute
- Respiration: 15-30 breaths per minute
- Rumination (Rumen Contractions) 1-4 per minute
Other considerations would be to check the mucus membranes of the eye or gums. They should be pink in color. Goat stool is another indicator of health. It should be pelleted (little rounds balls) not soft or liquid diarrhea.
Once you have made your assessment you can share your findings and symptoms with your veterinarian or a trusted, knowledgeable person who is familiar with pygmy goats. An excellent reference for the new pygmy goat owner is Pygmy Goat Management and Veterinary Care, by Lorrie Boldrick, D.V.M. and Lydia Hale and we would recommend you purchase it for your library. This book is available for purchase by simply clicking here.
WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT WHEN PURCHASING
A GOAT FROM CRITTER CRAZE RANCH
Our goat herd has tested negative for CAE (Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis), CL (Caseous Lymphadenitis), and Johne's Disease. This should help insure you are buying a healthy animal. Your goat will be dehorned and also have current vaccinations, will have been dewormed and will be microchipped for permanent identification through the National Pygmy Goat Association. We are available to assist you with any pygmy goat concerns for the lifetime of your goat. Many of our customers return each year for annual vaccinations and deworming or hoof trimming if needed. We are always available for questions concerning the health and well-being of your goats. Critter Craze Ranch takes pride in producing healthy goats which meet the needs of our customers. |
