Alchemy Acres
presents
Tip of the Month





Welcome PageDescription of Dairy HerdWhat's New at the Site?Crafts and Nifty StuffAlchemy's MenagerieTip of the MonthPrevious Tips of the MonthOther Resources of Interest




Last month, we discussed a few of the basics of the selection of the "perfect" herd sire. These include picking a buck who hails from an outstanding family and whose strengths match the weaknesses of your does. If you have purchased the buck, Fall is the time to trim his hooves, and of course, to feed him generously. If, however you are going to purchase the services of a neighbor's buck, you still have a few options which may enhance your chances of creating that "perfect" kid. At the very least, when you visit Sir Handsome, he should be healthy and vigorous, with no signs of wounds or infections. It would also be nice if he were housed in sanitary conditions.

You may still wish to "flush" your does to maximize ovulation, as discussed in last month's tip. And before you take your doe to Sir Handsome, you may also wish to give her a vinegar douche, so as to be certain she does not have a minor vaginal infection, which could impede the chances of impregnation --- not to mention making her persona non grata at the home of the buck. Assuming both buck and doe are healthy, you must now ascertain the time when the doe will favor the attentions of the buck. Such signs include tail wagging, bleating, and general agitation. Some does are quite subtle, however, so you must know each specific animal. If your cherub is in standing heat, it is time for the mad dash to Sir Handsome. We have found that if the doe is bred early in her heat cycle, our prospects of getting doe kids are enhanced. We've used this strategy for some years, and nearly always get a larger proportion of doe kids. Nothing is foolproof, however, so you will get some bucklings, also.



Write us with your comments and suggestions.


Welcome PageDescription of Dairy HerdWhat's New at the Site?Crafts and Nifty StuffAlchemy's MenagerieTip of the MonthPrevious Tips of the MonthOther Resources of Interest