I finally started shearing goats today. Only got two done, Cinnamon and Maggie. I probably should aim for three to four a day each day for the next week.
I am putting the bucks off to last, because I really need John to help me get them on the stand for me, I’m just not strong enough to convince them to walk up that ramp. Plus, if I don’t get a buck done before cold weather strikes, it’s not too worrisome.
The does, though, all need to be sheared because many of them are pregnant, and if they are too hairy, their kids can’t find their teats, and I end up with a bunch of bottle babies. Which is a lot of work, but I usually sell them within a few weeks to people who want to raise bottle babies.
Bottle-raised kids are always friendlier and easier to handle than those who stay with their mamas. Even as adults, they will come over just to say hi and get a pat or two.
I’ll try to get a photo or two tomorrow of the goats I catch to shear. It’s awkward trying to take photos of them because I have two kids trying to help me with everything, and they are entirely too curious about cameras.
Castle Argghhh 