Alchemy Acres
presents
Tip of the Month
After three months coverage of the training of harness goats, we're going back to basics - namely simple items to know for examining your animals.
Normal Vital Signs in the Goat
- Pulse
- 100-120/minute (kid)
- 70-80/minute (adult)
- Respiration
- 12-20/minute kid)
- 9-15/minute (adult)
- Temperature
- 101.5-104 degrees F (38.6-39.8 degrees C)
- Rumen Contractions - observe in left flank
- 1-3/minute
Basic Physical Exam
- General Attitude and Presentation
- Temperature
- Respiratory Rate and Pulse
- Color of Mucous Membranes - pink? white?
- Eyes, Nose, Mouth if possible - clear or discharges - foreign bodies
- Sound of Breathing - throat and chest
- Hydration - Skin, eyes, gums
- Rumen Contractions - listen, feel, watch upper left flank
- Evidence of Diarrhea?
- Haircoat - shiny, rough, check for parasites
- Limbs, Joints, Feet - animal moving freely?
- Examine for Abscesses - throat, neck, shoulder, flank
I view theses lists as an aid to your veterinarian. When you have a potential health problem, call your vet immediately. However, you can assist the vet (and lower your bill) if you check these vital signs and functions before you call. Perhaps the vet can solve your problem over the phone. At the very least, your vet will have a much clearer idea of that which faces him/her when he/she gets to your farm. Good luck, and good "goating"
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