Hello Reader,

Life with goats is a long-term adventure, and caring for them into their golden years presents unique challenges and rewards. This guide takes an honest look at the realities of goat aging—from declining fertility and dental changes to nutrition tweaks and keeping them healthy and comfortable in their senior years.

Geese are popular on many homesteads. They are kept for various reasons, including meat, appearance, and companionship. Would you like to raise them? Check out the top 10 domestic goose breeds in the US.

If you’re looking for an old-world chicken breed that is a cost-saving forager and predator-resistant, check out Lakenvelders. They are the black and white best choice for eggs and meat. While not ideal for urban or small coops due to their noisiness and flightiness, they can really shine on partially protected pastures.

🎧 Iodine Deficiency in Goats Hairless kids at birth or a swelling (goiter) under the throat are classic signs of iodine problems—but is it deficiency, toxicity, or something in your mineral program? In this episode, with Dr. Robert Van Saun, we talk about symptoms of iodine deficiency in adult goats, as well as newborn kids. We also take a deep dive into providing kelp for goats and how labels don’t always give you the information you need. Listen in

▶ Stop Believing These Goat Feeding Myths! Think you know what goats should eat? This video busts five common nutrition myths with real science and 20+ years of hands-on experience—why goats are picky browsers (not trash eaters), why pasture alone rarely meets mineral needs, when grain helps vs. harms, and how hay quality + the right mineral mix can make or break herd health. Watch video

📄Maple Syrup Want to produce your own homegrown sweetener? Maple syrup is a great choice for those who have maple trees. Although the sap doesn't run until the end of winter, now is the time to identify trees and get your equipment ready. Here is more info on how to get started tapping your trees and making maple syrup. Learn more!

Happy homesteading!

​
Deborah
and the ThriftyHomesteader Team

📚Want to Learn Even More?

• Did you know we have a Youtube Channel with over 300 videos? From goat care to soapmaking, cheesemaking, and more—you’ll find practical, real-life tips to support your homesteading journey.
• Looking to dive deeper? Visit the Goat Academy—your go-to resource for online courses on everything from goat health and nutrition to soapmaking, gardening, composting, and starting a homestead business. Whether you’re just getting started or want to level up your skills, there’s a course for you.
• Need ongoing guidance and community support? Goats 365 is our membership program that gives you full access to six comprehensive courses, live Q&A sessions, and an engaged group of goat owners who are learning and growing together—365 days a year.

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