Can I re-disbud?

[LaManchaPaul]

I disbudded (for the first time ever) a beautiful Saanen buckling on 4/27 when he was four days old. It seemed to be a good job, but now I am certain that a scurr is growning on his left scar. A rather small hard area is bumping up on the rear part of the circle. I know that it is growing. His right side is flat and doesn’t seem to be a problem.

Can I re-burn it? I am wondering if I can just touch that bump for ten seconds. What do you think?

Paul

[chamoisee]

Yes you can. I would trim the scur as close to the head as possible and then burn. There will be blood, but the iron will help to stop the bleeding.

[topside1]

Paul, absolutely. Hit it now before it really takes root. Nothing more ugly on a goat than a scur....Topside

[LaManchaPaul]

Thanks for responding.
How long do I hold the iron on?

The original burn was 13 seconds, so I am concerned that there isn't adequate material between the scur and the brain to burn for very long. Do I just hold the iron directly on the scur bump?

A fellow goatherder declares that when we dis-bud that we cause brain damage, personality disorders among other issues that he raises. I can’t discard his thoughts.

The buckling is a show goat and such a joy to be around. He’s raised on LaMancha milk so he became the clown on the farm. I'd be devastated if I did him harm.
Paul

[chamoisee]

He's older now. The risk of brain damage is decreased from what it would be on a newborn kid. I would keep the iron there just long enough to make sure that the horn tissue is dead. I know that's not descriptive enough. If I lived nearby, I would show you, sorry.

[topside1]

Paul, just make another burn ring around the scur. Your boy will be fine, 10 true seconds. I'd go 5 seconds, 5 second break, look the job over and finish up with 5 more TRUE seconds...No worries...Topside

[topside1]

Don't forget to roll the iron in a circular motion...Make a ring, I know it's no fun but it must be done.

[LaManchaPaul]

Thanks. I'll try it tomorrow.

Helianthus, OH HOW I WISH you were closer also.

Paul

[kreddish]

And my thoughts are with you... Good luck!!!!

[jBlaze]

I don't keep track of the iron seconds. I burn for what feels right, then I pull it away, ice the head with a bag of frozed peas for a bit, then I take a look. I keep burning and icing till I feel right about it. That is how I was taught.
I have learned that different breeds, and each individual has it's own unique needs. Some goats / breeds seem to have horns that are more deeply "rooted" others have wide bases.
I would say burn to you think is right, not how many seconds someone else says.
Hope it goes well for you!