Baby Goat Updates

Sadly, dear reader, the most joyful season on the farm has taken a bit of a backseat to all the market and business upheaval. Today, allow me to remind you, and if I am transparent, remind myself of one of the many reasons I love what we do. Baby season is well underway. We currently have 15 baby goats in the barn, and they are beauties. Our sire, Sebastian, has done a splendid job siring beautifully moon-spotted baby girls and boys. Our ratio of boys to girls is leaning slightly toward girls, which is a good thing. There are several little boys we are keeping intact because buyers are interested in them as herd sires. The combination of our sweet, lovely girls and Sebastian's gorgeous spots and kind temperament has resulted in stellar babies this year. 

Little Mable May, our brown triplet baby, is doing well, perfectly bonded with her mama, Fauna, and has become an integral member of the baby group. Eric gives her a bottle in the morning and at night to supplement her, but I think it is as much because he enjoys her as it is because she needs extra nutrition. The warmer days have been a blessing for sure, in keeping everyone healthy. Over the weekend, The Bibbed Wonder had a few extra hands in the barn to help with vaccines. The babies are vaccinated against Clostridium perfringens types C and D, and Tetanus. It is a vital combination vaccine used to protect goats against enterotoxemia (overeating disease) and tetanus, which are often fatal bacterial infections in young kids. (Michigan State University) Keeping everyone healthy is a full-time job. 

We have several more does to deliver this baby season. Our baby season won't wrap up until mid-June. However, fingers crossed, throw some salt over your shoulder, say a prayer, and spin around three times, so that everyone remains safe, happy, and healthy. I am guilty of getting caught up in all the mess of all the things I can't control, and forgetting the beautiful things that bring me joy. Let me not be that person. 

On this Thursday in May, stay safe, be smart, remember your joy, and keep washing your hands.