Alchemy Acres Tip of the Month

Alchemy Acres presents Tip of the Month

This is the time of year that many of us will either be buying or selling some of our livestock. So we've glommed onto a couple of "Beware" lists - one for the seller and one for the buyer. These are a few of the things you might wish to consider as you enter (as buyer or seller) one of these transactions.

Buyer Beware Tips

Ask for, and check references.
If you are buying an AI kid, make sure the kid is registered, or get an AI memo from the breeder. This is to insure the buck has been reported to ADGA as collected.
If possible, visit the herd and check on general health and condition of the animals.
Become familiar with the rules of the registry association.
Investigate all the rules and regulations to which you may be subject while importing an animal into your state.
Find out what herd health vaccinations are used by the seller. Ask for, at your expense, additional vaccinations you may require in your area plus health papers.
Ask if the seller extends any guarantee above what is required by the registry association.
Check the tattoos and compare to the papers.
Check for extra teats, spurs, etc.
If you have a complaint, take it to the seller first. Most breeders want stock they sell to reflect well on their breeding program. They should be given the first chance to settle differences of opinion.
Make all payments promptly with good checks.

Seller Beware Tips

If selling on credit, ask for and check references.
Know what regulations apply when accepting a check.
Make certain the terms of the sale are made clear to the buyer, and put it in writing so you both have a copy. This should be signed by both buyer and seller.
Be informed as to your obligations as set forth in the registry guidelines.
Check the animal to be sold for correct tattoos and/or defects prior to sale and shipment. Selling an animal with an obvious problem will not enhance your reputation as a breeder.
Offer the buyer any helpful hints as to basic care of his new animal. You can't raise the animal for him, but a few simple tips may erase a potential problem before it occurs.
If you offer a guarantee above the minimum required by the registry association, make sure it is clear to the buyer and honor it when necessary.

Hopefully these hints will help you conclude a pleasant and successful transaction. As the seller, you are responsible for providing an animal that is genetically capable of providing function and/or beauty. As the buyer, you are responsible for providing that animal with the best care so that it grows out to its full genetic potential. I think the greatest compliment (certainly the most satisfying one) I ever received was when Elizabeth Buch told me that I'd raised one of her beloved babies even better than she could have. I had the distinct privilege of working with a genetically superior animal and knew that she had produced under my stewardship greater amounts of milk and butterfat than any of Elizabeth's other animals. It was a source of great pride to both Elizabeth and myself. And some day, I will have to write a small article about Elizabeth. She was one of the great pioneers of the dairy goat industry here in the US. She was also an interesting person and a generous mentor. I miss her.

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