We are going to have our goats bred, anything I need to know?

[lettermom]

We are going to take them to be bred next week. We are taking them back to the same place we bought them so I know the other animals are tested and safe ect. Is there any thing I need to know before we do this? It's the first time we have ever taken them. Also I'd love to take them just for a few days instead of 18-21, how can I tell when they are ready? I have been told discharge or swelling and trying to um..be close to each other. Any other signs?

[Rockytopsis]

My girls wave their tails like crazy (flagging) and are very vocal. You could see if the place you are taking them has a buck rag to tease the girls with.

[lettermom]

Thank you. Whats a buck rag?

[Rockytopsis]

Never used one cause I have my own bucks but I am just guessing from reading other posts that is is a rag that has been rubbed on a stinky ole buck. You girls will sniff the rag and I am guessing they will flirt with it like it is the real thing.

[Madfarmer]

Since moving the does--even a short ride, can interrupt their routine and their cycle time, it's really better to plan on leaving them through two cycles--one to get bred, plus 21 days to make sure they don't return to heat. It would be better if you could borrow/lease a buck to bring to your place. This late in the breeding season, his presence would be more likely to stimulate them to cycle.

Madfarmer

[dosthouhavemilk]

This late in the season I would strongly urge you to go ahead and take them over and just leave them there.
You run the risk of them not settling if you don't give them a long enough chance. They are not as overt this time of year and the heats tend to be shorter and more silent.
Will the buck's owner being watching them for signs of breeding?

[lettermom]

I hope they will breed! I don't have anyone I can lease a buck from I will ask her but I think she'll be watching. she knows alot about goats and has been taking care of them/breeding/showing for years.