Hello Reader,

Whether you’re caring for senior goats, fine-tuning your pregnant does’ diets, or planning ahead for next year’s kids, this issue has you covered — from feeding and castration to keeping your milk and meat safe. And when the chores are done, cozy up with a comforting goat goulash recipe that proves goat meat can be both tender and delicious.

Caring for Senior Goats

Older goats need special attention when temperatures drop. From extra bedding to checking teeth and weight, a few small changes can make a big difference this winter. As goats age, worn teeth can make eating hay harder, so softer feeds like soaked alfalfa pellets or senior horse feed can help them maintain condition. Learn how to keep your senior goats comfortable and thriving through the cold months in this week’s featured article.

Do Goats Need Grain During Pregnancy?

If your does were bred this fall, now’s the time to review their nutrition plan. This article breaks down when grain helps — and when it can cause problems — for healthy pregnancies. You’ll also learn why minerals matter more than calories, and how the right feeding schedule can prevent oversized kids and smoother births.

Castrating Goats and Sheep with a Burdizzo

Planning ahead for next year’s kids? After trying surgical and banding methods, I discovered that the Burdizzo is the most humane and stress-free way to castrate goats and sheep. It’s a quick, bloodless method with less pain and no risk of infection or tetanus—and kids are usually back to playing within minutes. Find out why I’ll never go back to the old ways in this article.

Milk and Meat Withdrawal in Goats Following Drug Use

Before winter arrives, it’s a good time to review your herd’s medication records and understand withdrawal times to keep your milk and meat safe. One reason I raise my own food is to avoid consuming drug residues — something many people unknowingly get from animal products. Learn more about withdrawal periods in goats and where to find reliable information in this post.

📄Goat Goulash Recipe Most people think goat meat is tough and stringy, but Nigerian Dwarf goat meat can be a tender and delicious addition to your recipes. If you're facing the issue of unsold wethers overrunning your working farm, butchering them is a practical way to deal with the problem. This goulash recipe produces a flavorful and comforting meal that you'll want to repeat again and again. Try this recipe!

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Happy Goatherding,

Deborah
& the Thrifty Homesteader Team

📚Want to Learn Even More?

• Did you know we have a Youtube Channel with over 700 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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