21/07/25

 

🍒 It’s that time of year again…

 

The hedgerows are beginning to grow heavy with promise — it won’t be long before the blackberries, plums, and cherries are ripe and ready! But while we’re looking forward to fruit crumbles and foraging walks, it’s worth asking…

 

What does fruit season mean for our goats?

 

It’s easy to forget how tempting fallen fruit can be, but now is the time to take extra care — for your goats’ safety, not just your harvest!

 

🍏 Moderation is key: Fruit should only be an occasional treat. Too much can cause bloating or upset tummies.

 

🍒 Preparation matters: Always remove stones and pips to avoid choking and the risk of cyanide poisoning. Chop fruit into small pieces and only offer fully ripe fruit — never green or underripe.

 

🌳 Check the ground: If fruit trees grow inside your goats’ enclosure, regularly check for windfalls. Goats are curious and can easily overindulge if they find a fruity buffet beneath a tree!

 

🍃 Leaf caution: If you feed tree leaves (such as from plum, cherry, or apple trees), they must be freshly picked and never wilted — wilted leaves from stone fruit trees can be toxic.

 

As always, a little awareness goes a long way. Enjoy the season — and keep your goats safe while doing so! 🐐

 

 

 

18/07/25

 

Following a Blue tongue seminar - Vets are pushing for every one to vaccinate their goats ahead of July when the risk of contacting blue tongue soars.

 

23/06/25

 

🚫 Just because it looks fun, doesn't mean it's safe!

Big buckets or wheelbarrows full of a single fruit or veg might go viral - but they're not healthy for goats. Even "safe" treats like carrots, apples and romaine, let alone foods that should be fed sparingly like strawberries, cranberries or broccoli can cause bloat, scours, or worse when fed in large amounts or without variety. Some food items, like popcorn and pasta, are not suitable for goats to eat.

Always feed small, balanced salads - mix greens like romaine or cabbage with tiny amounts of fruit or veg. What works for one goat doesn't always work for another - and what looks harmless and fun could be dangerous.

 

 

15/04/25