Hello Reader,

With so much goat advice floating around online, it’s easy to feel unsure about what’s true. This week, we’re tackling common myths and misunderstandings — from AI-generated goat care tips to the realities of closed herds and disease testing. You’ll also learn how to improve breeding success and make more confident decisions for your herd.

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▶ AI Goat Care Advice: What You Need to Know Before You Trust It AI is okay for answering quick questions, but when it comes to raising goats, it can’t replace having a discussion with a human who has scientific knowledge combined with real world goat experience. In this video, I'm explaining why AI-generated answers often fall short in goat care and how relying on them could put your animals at risk. Here's how to make better decisions using peer-reviewed research and proven management practices. Watch Video

▶ The Truth About Closed Goat Herds (Johne’s, CL, CAE) When it comes to goat health, the idea of a “closed herd” isn’t always as clear-cut as it sounds. Many assume that annual testing ensures a disease-free herd, but the reality is more complex. In this video, we’ll unpack what “closed herd” really means and what you can do to better protect your goats. Watch video

▶ CAE Testing: Why One False Positive Didn’t Stop Us In this video, I share the story of our goat’s false positive CAE test in 2005 and why we kept testing our herd year after year. You’ll learn how regular testing builds trust when buying or selling goats and what every goat owner should know before deciding whether to test. If you’ve ever been frustrated by false positives or wondered if routine CAE, CL, or Johne’s testing is really worth it, this episode offers clarity and practical advice. Watch video

▶ How Many Times Should a Buck Breed a Doe? Ever wondered how many times a buck should breed a doe before you can be confident she’s actually pregnant? In this video, I discuss what counts as a successful breeding, why once might not be enough, and how you can increase your chances of a successful kidding season. Watch video

Happy goatherding!

​
Deborah
and 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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