By Neil Marks
In Guyana, we know of dogs, cats and parrots as common pets, but then there are those who cherish a bond with some animals we wouldn’t necessary see as pets, such as the common domestic goat.
It is true that goats have developed some popularity as pets, but, not so much here. For as long as we can remember, goats have been bred for their milk, meat, hair, and skin. But down in Parika backdam, the Gobin family is developing quite a reputation for their rendezvous with eight goats – Butchy, Sebastian, Blackberry, Popsin, Matilda, Justin, Big Mama and Isabella. Justin has been proclaimed the King Pin, and he lives up to the reputation with ease. As for Big Mama, that should be self explanatory, no?
Goats are extremely curious and intelligent and these are perhaps a bit too curious. They find comfort in the embrace of their human family and friends – Roy, Jenny, Keisha and Tinnifer. Because goats need a daily dose of play, they can become pesky – but a good nap eases the stress. And how they fall asleep quickly once they are in the warm embrace of their owners, and more so, in the hammocks!
Because goats are adventurous, this group of eight tests fences, either intentionally or simply because they are handy to climb on.
If any of the fencing can be spread, pushed over or down, or otherwise be overcome, the goats will escape.
Interestingly, the goat is one of the twelve-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar.
Those born in a year of the goat are predicted to be shy, introverted, creative, and perfectionist.
Although they are hardy and adventurous, goats are not self-sufficient. They require daily attention including food, play, and water.
For food, this herd rummages on the greenery wherever they can find it. But then again, the Gobins make sure they put them to graze in locations of healthy grass.
But as they are never satisfied, they must have a snack in the evenings and they take anything – from channa to biscuits. And if they can eat out of Roy’s hands, all the better! But what if you are thinking of having a goat as a pet? There are some points to keep in mind.
Firstly, because goats typically thrive in herds, you must at least have two.
Second, if you are keeping goats as milk producing animals in addition to pets, they will need to be milked one to two times a day to prevent mastitis, a painful infection of the udders.
Third, goats can also get aggressive if they are bored or sense that you are afraid, which can result in a painful butting.
On the other hand, goats are loving, affectionate, loyal animals, and the Gobin’s deeply enjoy keeping them as pets.
These intelligent and intensely curious animals are fun to have around, if you are willing to put in the work.
