Transition doe management

Posted on October 2, 2023 in Dairy Goat Performance
The transition period for dairy goats is the three weeks before kidding to three weeks after kidding. During his Vita Plus Dairy Goat Seminar presentation, Kevin Wellejus, VMD and partner at Calumet Goat Company, explained that during this transition from the dry period to milking, the doe’s physiology changes dramatically.

Make the most of the dry period: Management (part 1)

Posted on October 12, 2022 in Dairy Goat Performance
Proper management of a doe’s dry period can have significant impacts on the doe’s longevity and productivity as well as kid survival. In this first article in a two-part series, experts discuss management factors that can lead to success in the dry period.

Colostrum management (part 2): Successfully feeding high-quality colostrum

Posted on February 14, 2022 in Dairy Goat Performance
By Dr. Noah Litherland In part 2 of our colostrum series, we look at efficient ways to heat-treat, store and warm colostrum. We also review the steps for processing newborn kids and feeding colostrum.

Colostrum management (part 1): Start with the doe

Posted on January 28, 2022 in Dairy Goat Performance
By Dr. Noah Litherland We only have one opportunity per doe to harvest colostrum and to feed her kids quality colostrum, so let’s develop a plan to do it right! Do you have opportunities to manage colostrum more effectively this year?

Checklist: Newborn kids

Posted on February 3, 2020 in Dairy Goat Performance

By Sarah Adamson
Previously, we discussed how important it is to have a maternity and fresh doe checklist.  Now we will address the items you should have on a newborn kid checklist to ensure a safe start to life.

Checklist: Maternity pen and fresh does

Posted on January 15, 2020 in Dairy Goat Performance

By Sarah Adamson
Kidding season is right around the corner - are you ready?  Having a maternity pen and doe checklist can help ensure a smooth delivery for the animals and make sure staff are prepared.