"Although most of us who keep small ruminants know how to do these things already, here is something for those new to goat or sheep-keeping and a "refresher course" for the rest of us. :)
How to Trim Goat Hooves
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
Notice how the goat kid is suckling on fingers contentedly right after being disbudded! The iron cauterizes nerve endings at the bud so that they no longer send pain signals. The kid is mainly fussing because it does not like being held (and this is a scary moment for ALL concerned).
Disbudding is important for dairy goats in the parlor and at shows because a domestic goat with its mostly-straight horns can do incredible damage to its friends, family and caretakers -- think puncture wounds, torn udders, gouged out eyes, and slash-wounds to large muscles -- and sometimes just by accident! Disbudding the horns ensures that these injuries will never happen.
The goats in the videos are mini-Nubians -- which are smaller than standard Nubian goats, but larger than Nigerian Dwarf Dairy goats, and are a blend of both breeds.
Chris
Little Biddy Farm
Oswego County, NY"
I also found information about a dehorning paste, made for calves but should also work on goats. I'm still a bit in two minds about horned or dehorned goats - it sure is easier and safer, but it also takes away the goats' self defense. I'll probably try it on one or two of the female kids whom will probably end up in the freezer anyway...
The dehorning paste is available at Jeffers.com for $4.95 for 4 oz.
"Dr. Naylor Dehorning Paste - Quick, economical. One application on horn button before calf is 2 months old. No cutting or bleeding. Also for use on sheep & goats."
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