Hello Reader, When we moved to the country, we were completely clueless city slickers. We made mistakes. Some were expensive. Some were heartbreaking. We even lost goats before I finally figured out what I was doing. If you found me because you wanted help raising goats or building a homesteading life, you probably know me as the person with answers. Through my books, classes, and membership, I’ve spent years sharing the practical information I wish I’d had when we started. But information...
2 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Whether you’re planning for breeding season or simply looking for ways to keep your goats healthy and thriving, here are a few helpful resources to explore this week. We’re sharing tips for selecting the right herd sire, identifying sore mouth and similar conditions, choosing the right free-choice minerals, and learning a few fascinating facts about goats. Then, put your goat milk to good use with an easy Instant Pot yogurt recipe. Selecting the Perfect Herd Sire Fall breeding...
5 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, Four years ago, email marketing expert Liz Wilcox joined us to explain why email is the GOAT of marketing. Now she’s back with practical advice to help farm businesses build stronger connections with customers through email. In this week’s episode of the For the Love of Goats Podcast, Deborah and Liz discuss why email remains one of the most dependable ways to reach your audience. They share tips for growing your email list, deciding what to write each week, reconnecting with...
10 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, After last week's business retreat, my brain is busy trying to figure out where to fit memoir writing into my current schedule. Thank you to all of you who responded to last week's email, telling me that you're looking forward to reading it. It's always encouraging to get feedback from you. 🐐🪿🍶 How often should you deworm your goats? Never! That would be the ideal, but life isn't perfect and neither are all of our goats. You can win the war in your pasture by learning more about...
18 days ago • 1 min read
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,...
19 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,...
22 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...
25 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...
29 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....
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
