~WELCOME~
A few
years back, I bumped into a Nigerian Dwarf doe, and fell in love
immediately. I decided to get a couple, and well, a couple turned
into several. Since that time, I've never looked back, and
have loved every minute with my goats. In addition to their
productivity and mild temperament, they're just a great little
package - the perfect size for children. My daughter, a
special needs little girl, especially loves the goats, and they, in
return, seem to offer her special attention and patience.
After hours of research, I determined which lines I'd like to have
as my foundation animals. We have now acquired animals from
some of the top breeders in the country, and are really looking
forward to great things. We take a great deal of pride in our
goats, and focus on conformation, milk production and udder
qualities, temperament, and the ability to pass these traits on to
future generations. We test for CAE and TB (whole herd
testing), and to date (November, 06) all tests have been negative.
All of our CAE testing is done using the cElisa test through
Washington State University as we feel it is so much more accurate
than the AGiD test. WSU is also working on perfecting the PCR
test, which will be even more definitive in diagnosing CAE, and we
hope to soon begin using that test. We are, and will remain,
extremely careful about bringing in new animals into our herd, and
are just as conscientious about animals that leave our farm.
In addition to these precautions, we have never had a case of
caseous lymphadenitis ("CL"), nor have any of our goats been
diagnosed with Johnes.
As
a nurse for 20+ years, I've learned the importance of a good health
maintenance program, and follow strictly the routine provided by
Judy Veale of Stonewall Farms. With Judy's permission, I've
posted this routine on the page listed "Goat Information".
Please feel free to email me if you have any questions, or just want
to talk 'goat'!
We decided to go on official 305 day milk test back in January,
2003, and we're pleased with the results. Many of the does
have earned their stars either through the complete 305 day
lactation (AR designation), or through concurrent one-day
testing. Peek-a-boo made the Top Ten list, 2003. Yep, our own
Irish Whisper JM Peek-a-Boo ranked 4th in butterfat production, and
6th in protein! We're just so happy, and so very proud of our
girl. Moreover, the information gained from testing has really
proved to be a great asset, and will be used as a tool in our
breeding program. Our ultimate goal is to have does that milk
with decent quantity while having exceptional quality (high
butterfats, high proteins).
Our herd has grown considerably, and with it, the addition of the
Standard Size Dairy Goats. We added the sweet-tempered,
usually naughty <g> but playful LaManchas back in 2004, and this
year we're adding those statuesque Saanens. I just love white
goats...
So, sit back, browse our site, and Welcome!
