Question 1

What do goats, also known as ruminants, eat?"

Accepted Answer

Blackberry (a favorite), Scotch broom, ivy, poison oak, salmon berry, dandelion, maple leaves, cottonwood leaves, bamboo, alder leaves, knot weed, morning glory, holly, small saplings, nettle, thistle, grasses, just to name a few!
Note:  Some common plants are toxic to goats and we’ll need to have a plan to mitigate risk to the goats if you have azaleas, laurel, rhododendrons, tansy, or evergreen clematis to name a few.

Question 2

Do goats eat blackberry stems?

Accepted Answer

No, they eat the soft ends of the vines and the leaves.  We work closely with our goats and cut the vines down close to the ground.

Question 3

Are the goats noisy?

Accepted Answer

On occasion, you'll hear them speak to each other or get excited when people come to visit but overall, they are very pleasant.

Question 4

Do goats really eat anything?

Accepted Answer

Contrary to popular belief, no.  However, they are interested in a wide range of vegetation and they don't eat tin cans... would you?

Question 5

Do goats eat all day & night long?

Accepted Answer

Goats are browsing animals so they continue to munch throughout the day. You'll see them take their mandatory 15 minute break every so often as the are processing their food (chewing their cud).  If they are hungry at night, they will eat but typically, they are resting at night.

Question 6

Why do some goats have horns?

Accepted Answer

Horns are based on genetics  and they are not gender specific. Some prefer to have their horns removed (dis-budded) at an early age.

Question 7

Do you employ a specific breed of goat?

Accepted Answer

No, we are an equal  opportunity employer!  All goats love to eat!

Question 8

Do we need a permit to have goats?

Accepted Answer

It is recommended that you check with your city or county.

FAQ

WestSide Goat Girl, LLC