Scrapie in goats, old seeds, and bone broth


Hello Reader,

Curious about keeping pygmy goats? These pint-sized charmers are not only adorable but also hardy and easy to care for. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly pet or a productive addition to your backyard, discover everything you need to know about their care, diet, and housing.

Who can resist a chicken that lays pastel blue eggs? Ameraucana chickens are as delightful as they are practical, offering a sweet temperament and unique aesthetic. Learn how to care for these curious birds and why they’re a fantastic choice for your flock.

Think last year’s seeds are destined for the trash? Think again! With proper storage and germination testing, those seeds can still thrive in your garden. Find out how to maximize seed viability and save money while maintaining a sustainable garden.

🎧 Scrapie in Goats

In this episode, we're revisiting scrapie—a critical issue for anyone raising goats or sheep—with special guest Dr. Linda Detwiler, staff veterinarian from the USDA. Dr. Detwiler provides an important update on scrapie's current status, the latest testing methods, genetic resistance, and what breeders need to know as we move closer to eradicating this disease in the U.S. Whether you're familiar with scrapie or hearing about it for the first time, this conversation is packed with vital information for keeping your herd healthy.

▶ Ultrasounds in Goats

If you had an ultrasound on your goat, watch this video to find out exactly how accurate (or not) ultrasounds are for determining pregnancy, counting kids, determining sex, and calculating a due date.

📄Homemade Chicken Broth

Warm up with a hearty bowl of bone broth—a nourishing tradition packed with flavor and health benefits. Whether you’re new to making broth or looking to perfect your recipe, this article will guide you through the process step by step.

🏡On the homestead and in my life...

We've been battling raccoons for the last few weeks. It is unbelievable to me that we've been losing more chickens and killing more raccoons in the past month than in the last 23 years combined! We are down to less than 40 hens, which is less than half of what we normally have, which is very frustrating when egg prices are at an all-time high. We should be getting another 50 pullets next week.

Happy homesteading!

Deborah
and the ThriftyHomesteader Team

P.S. Ready to elevate your farm business? Mark your calendar for Grassroots Entrepreneurs Spring Training 2025, happening March 4-7! Whether you're planting the seeds of a new business or scaling your current operations, this event is packed with insights and strategies to help you thrive.

🌱 Secure your spot now -
click here to register!

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Deborah Niemann @ Thrifty Homesteader

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Read more from Deborah Niemann @ Thrifty Homesteader

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Hello Reader, Thinking about adding goats to your homestead? This article covers essential information for prospective goat owners. From their long lifespan to their social nature and specific housing needs, you'll learn crucial facts to ensure you're well-prepared for these charming and mischievous creatures. Discover the joys and challenges of raising peafowl on your property. This article explores the history of peafowl keeping, their unique characteristics, and practical advice for their...

Hello Reader, Thinking about getting some ducks for your farm? Before you jump in, read what Rebekah Pierce of J&R Pierce Family Farm has to say about the negatives she wishes she had known before she got ducks—and also why they're still 100% worth the trouble! Chickens can be a good addition to a farm—they're generally easy to care for and pay you back with fresh eggs and meat. But they do require some planning before you bring home your first brood. Here are some considerations and pro-tips...