Goats and bug spray

[RockyToggRanch]

Hi, I'm new to goat ownership. I have recently acquired a togg doe. I have stumbled through learning to milk and building a milking stand and goat proofing the horse paddock. I'm concerned with whether or not insect repellant should be used on a dairy goat. I intend to use the milk for soap and cheese. I spray my horses and myself and she suffers with the mosquitos and black flies.

 

[penelope77]

i've used the farm & home fly spray on mine. you have to stand back two feet from them when you do and don't get it in their face. i've used homemade fly spray too. i have also 7 dusted them before and i also milk mine.

 

[RockyToggRanch]

What is used to dust them? Is there any organic choice?

 

[gila_dog]

I have been using a horse-type fly repellent on my goats. I spray a little around their legs, backs, and butts, and then wipe some around their eyes and ears with a cloth. It gives them some relief, and I hope it's ok. Mine are wethers (packgoats), not milk goats. I use so little that I doubt if it would be a problem even for milk goats tho.

 

[kinnip]

I use a pyrethrin based horse spray and a big fan. It seems to work pretty well.

 

[RockyToggRanch]

Is pyrethrin safe for dairy or food animals? I'm so worried about making cheese that's toxic, ya know? I feel dumb... Shoulda paid attention in science class.

Course...back then..well you know..dark ages.

 

[Chatychick]

I personally use the Skin so soft from Avon and spray it on a cloth as they dont like getting wet or sprayed. Also if you get Ditanimous earth make sure its the food grade and sprinkle it where they sleep or lay around. SSS sure makes their coats shine and I also use it on my horses as the mosquitoes hate the smell. Good luck

 

[Melin]

what kind of skin so soft do you use on the goats? There are so many different kinds now.

 

[cassie]

What is used to dust them? Is there any organic choice?

Probably not. One thing to keep in mind is this. Just because something is natural does not mean that it is either safe or effective. Read the labels. If you look you can find something that is approved for dairy animals.

 

[cassie]

Is pyrethrin safe for dairy or food animals? I'm so worried about making cheese that's toxic, ya know? I feel dumb... Shoulda paid attention in science class.

Course...back then..well you know..dark ages.

Read the label. If you have any questions contact the manufacturer. There should be a customer service number listed.