Getting pygmy goats, need advice!

[ohiochickenguy]

We are getting four pygmy goat within a month. We have an enclosed area that is concreted, we are wanting to keep our goats in there they will have adequate supply of fresh air and light.The area is large and will have things in there for them to do. We are just wondering do we NEED an area outside (enclosed) for them to go out into. I have been getting mixed information stating no they don't need it and it will greatly reduce parasites if they aren't outside and some say they can get sick from eating clover (our yard is full of it). We are willing to build a small fenced in area roughly 20ftX30ft, but not sure if we truly need it as long as the goats are healthy, happy and will live a long life. Also on the feeding note, could you give us some pointers? We will have 2 wethers and 2 does if that helps. Thanks for all your help!!

 

[Stacykins]

We are getting four pygmy goat within a month. We have an enclosed area that is concreted, we are wanting to keep our goats in there they will have adequate supply of fresh air and light.The area is large and will have things in there for them to do. We are just wondering do we NEED an area outside (enclosed) for them to go out into. I have been getting mixed information stating no they don't need it and it will greatly reduce parasites if they aren't outside and some say they can get sick from eating clover (our yard is full of it). We are willing to build a small fenced in area roughly 20ftX30ft, but not sure if we truly need it as long as the goats are healthy, happy and will live a long life. Also on the feeding note, could you give us some pointers? We will have 2 wethers and 2 does if that helps. Thanks for all your help!!

Yes, they really do need an area outside. Being shut up inside on concrete is not good for any animal. Living on concrete alone will also likely lead to joint and hoof problems Just because factory farms do it, doesn't mean you should. A factory farm is designed to churn out as many animals as possible for slaughter, not for any real quality of life.

A 20x30 area will be eaten down to dirt in no time, by the way, with four animals. So you won't really need to worry about clover. And they can eat clover with no issues, if they are acclimated and not allowed to gorge on it. Feed them hay first, then let them have clover.

 

[ohiochickenguy]

They would be just on concrete I would have a few inches on bedding down. Trust me I work on concrete all day I wouldn't want them to have to stand on it all day. Thank you for your help!