Hello Reader,

We bred our first two does a few days ago, which means we should see our first babies around the end of March! Each of our new Rosasharn bucks that we brought home from Massachusetts in June bred a doe.

We also spent way too much time catching our other bucks and moving them back to their pasture, which was on the other side of the farm because we are not using them this fall, and we didn't want any unauthorized breeding. I think someone must have shared that memo with them because they are relentless about getting out and running down the road to find their way into the pasture next to the does. So far, we have foiled all of their attempts to get into the doe's pasture!

🌱🐐🐑🐓🍰

Herbal dewormers are a hot topic for goat lovers trying to prevent or treat parasite problems. But the key question remains: do they work? In this article, I cover the research into herbal dewormers, one scientifically-backed dewormer that does work, and the most important thing you can do to prevent parasite problems on your farm.

Thinking about adding sheep to your homestead? This beginner’s guide covers everything you need to know — from choosing the right breed to caring for your flock year-round. Whether you’re raising them for fiber, meat, or just for fun, this post will help you get started with confidence.

Looking to add some color to your chicken flock? This guide to 12 ravishing red chicken breeds will help you choose the perfect addition — whether you want prolific egg layers, meaty dual-purpose birds, or friendly backyard companions. Discover which red beauties will make your coop shine!

🎧 Red Cell for Goats If you’ve ever reached for Red Cell to help an anemic goat recover after deworming, you’ll want to hear this one. In this episode, Dr. Joan Burke from the USDA shares the results of a study testing whether Red Cell actually helps goats bounce back faster — and the findings may surprise you! Plus, she offers valuable insights on nutrition, iron use, and managing parasite recovery effectively. Listen in

▶ My buck got out! What do I do? Did you walk out to the doe pen and find an uninvited guest?! Should you assume that no one got bred simply because you didn't see anything happen? What if none of the does seem interested in the buck? Here are some tales from the trenches of goat breeding and why I always mark the calendar for 145 days after I find a buck has found his way into the doe pasture. Watch video

📄Pumpkin Chévre Cheesecake Having a hard time deciding whether you want pumpkin pie or cheesecake for dessert on Thanksgiving? You can have both in the same dessert by making pumpkin chévre cheesecake. We make this delicious, all-natural, lower-fat version of cheesecake with goat cheese, more correctly known as chévre. Try this recipe!

Happy homesteading!

​
Deborah
and the ThriftyHomesteader 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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