What would you do?

tickranch · #1 05/05/08, 12:12 PM

I've had 3 new, 3 month old doelings in their own stall with their own little yard, 25'x25', for 7 days now. They have met the rest of the herd through the fence and everyone seems alright with each other.

One of the new girls is very friendly, I can walk right up to her and pick her up and she hardly flinches. She comes up to me and wants to be petted and loved one, she is great. The other two are still stand offish. They will eat out of my hand and come up and sniff me but they will not let me pet them and they run from me if I get to close to them.

Do you think it is too soon to let them in with the rest of the herd? Should I keep them confined a little longer, till the other 2 will let me pet them?

I'm indecisive at this moment so I thought I'd ask ya'll what you would do. Thanks

TennesseeMama23 · #2 05/05/08, 12:41 PM

I would probably keep them up a little (lot) longer if it was me. It would be harder for ME to spend time with them if they were in with the rest of the herd. I don't know if they are weaned, it would also be easier to pour the feed to them like I would like if they were alone. They won't grow as well if you put them in with the herd IMO.

Alice In TX/MO · #3 05/05/08, 02:01 PM

I'd keep them separate for tender loving care, too. Feed them pieces of graham crackers, fritos, raisins, several time a day.

deetu · #4 05/05/08, 10:16 PM

Also, ignore the two that are not friendly and stay low (squating or sitting on the ground)while playing with the friendly one. Guarantee, the other two will start coming over to smell you, nibble your clothes and try climbing on you. Then try feeding them all food from your hand. Let them know where their food is coming from. Then a little pet here and there, usually while petting the friendly one, until they realize it doesn't hurt and you won't seem so scarey anymore. Food is a great incentive for goats.