Hello Reader, From nutrition and grazing to parasites and kid care, this week's videos answer some of the most common questions goat owners ask. Don't forget to click the 'Subscribe' button below any video to stay updated with our latest releases! ▶ Does a lactating dairy goat really need alfalfa? Do your dairy goats really need alfalfa, or can grass hay provide everything they need? Learn why lactating does have higher protein and calcium requirements, where those nutrients can come from,...
5 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Not every dog is naturally suited for farm life. Choosing the right dog and avoiding a few common mistakes can make the difference between a dependable livestock partner and constant frustration. In this article, I share seven tips that can help set both you and your dog up for success. Did you know some black chickens have black skin, black bones, and even black meat? From tiny Silkies to giant Jersey Giants, black-feathered breeds come in an incredible variety of sizes,...
8 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, By mid-summer, many goat owners are thinking about weaning this year's kids. But before you separate them from their mothers, it's important to look beyond their age and consider their growth and overall health. In this article, I share the guidelines I use to help make weaning as successful and stress-free as possible. Not every golden chicken breed is the same. From the friendly Buff Orpington to the prolific Golden Comet, yellow and buff-colored chickens come in a wide...
11 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Few duck breeds are as striking as the Cayuga. Once America's most popular meat duck, it's now prized for its iridescent black plumage, rich eggs, and gentle temperament. Learn what makes Cayuga ducks a great addition to many homesteads. Can dogs and chickens live together peacefully? They can—but it takes patience, training, and careful introductions to help everyone feel safe. This guide walks you through the process step by step so you can build a positive relationship...
15 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Why do some goats grow scurs even after being disbudded? This article explains what scurs are, why incomplete disbudding often causes them, how they differ from true horns, and the practical steps goat owners can take to reduce the chances of scur development. Thinking about hatching your own chicks or improving your backyard flock? Breeding chickens can be both rewarding and practical—whether you're aiming for better egg production, hardier birds, or preserving rare breeds....
18 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, In this issue, you'll learn about milk stones, tetanus prevention, scurs, and Staphylococcus aureus. This week's newsletter wraps up with a refreshing goat cheese and cucumber recipe that's perfect for summer. Milk Stones in Goats Ever felt something hard inside a goat’s teat while milking? It might be a rare condition known as a milk stone. In this post, you’ll learn what milk stones are, how to recognize them, and how to manage or prevent this unusual issue in your dairy...
19 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Is painting over mold enough to solve the problem? This article explores the hidden dangers of mold, common contractor mistakes, and why proper remediation and moisture control are essential for creating a safer, healthier home. Why do some cast iron pans last for generations while others rust or stick constantly? This article explains how seasoning works, how to properly care for cast iron cookware, and the common myths that scare people away from using these durable, naturally...
22 days ago • 1 min read
This morning I woke up before daylight feeling completely awake, which made no sense because if it’s still dark outside, I obviously need more sleep. I refused to check the time because once I know it’s 3:17 or 4:03 or whatever ridiculous hour it is, my brain immediately starts doing math about how much sleep I’m not getting. Eventually curiosity won. It was 4:30. Well…my phone was already in my hand. First I checked the Portugal trip. Registration had officially closed at midnight, and we’ll...
24 days ago • 2 min read
I wish I was just a comedian making up that subject line. But alas, I am a real live person, and I am writing this at 2:50 a.m. because I was just lying in bed awake and I felt my cat walking across my legs, and suddenly it smelled like a skunk was on my bed. You may have your own ideas about why this happened, but in my sleep-deprived brain at 2:50 a.m., I decided it must be a sign that I need to get up and work at my computer. This is the third time this has happened in the past week. No,...
26 days ago • 4 min read
