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WRR PROJECT WETHERS

WRR's emphasis is on producing outstanding project wethers. Check out our Winners pages to see that we have been successful in accomplishing this goal. And then read on to see that we are not resting on ours laurels, but are continuing to improve as this industry evolves.

All show wethers purchased from WRR are banded for a clean underline. They come dehorned, dewormed, deliced, vaccinated, weaned and on feed so they are ready to win for you.

We are happy to provide information on how to feed, exercise, train to lead, show clip, and showmanship so your wether will continue to perform for you.

SHOWING TIPS FROM JUDGE JUDY

This is an exciting time to be in the meat goat industry. I have seen this species go from a hobby breed in the small animal shows, to gaining acceptance and being added to livestock judging contests. Goat numbers are up and the quality of animals and showmen continues to skyrocket.

For those of you that are just getting started in meat goats, here are some things to keep in mind.

1. Before you purchase your project goat

Learn as much as you can before actually purchasing a goat; talk to the breeders, attend shows and ask questions! This will ensure you know how to take care of your goat and create contacts for information in you have questions along the way.

Make sure you can devote the time and work required for your project.

Know when your show date is: buy a goat that is the appropriate size, weight and age for your target show.

Have a pen, shelter, appropriate feed, and equipment (including food and water containers) ready before bringing home your new goat.

2. Before your show

Know and monitor how much your goat is eating. Weigh it often so you know how much and when to adjust the feed to be within the weight limits for your show.

Exercise your goat so he feels firm, not flabby. Exercise will also get your goat to eat more and he will put on muscle not fat.

Teach your goat to lead. You and your goat need to work together as a team.

Maintain your goat's health. Treat health issues that arise long before the show. The show is a perfect opportunity for infectious diseases (like ringworm) to spread and show officials will turn away animals that are a health risk to others. Be sure that your animal is clean and healthy before taking it to a show.

Know when you show. Be ready at ringside for your class.

Have your goat ready. He must be clean, including ears, under the tail and feet trimmed.

Never bring a wet goat into the ring. This includes his legs.

Since we leave the hair long below the knees and hocks, it needs to be trimmed so no wild hairs stick out. Give the illusion of straight lines.

It is best to clip your goat 7 days before show date with Medium blades against the hair. If you have to wait until the day before the show use Covercotes.

Clip the head and hair inside the ear for showmanship. Clip the tail to resemble a paintbrush.

3. In the Show Ring

When showing allow adequate spacing, usually a "goat length," between you and the goat in front of you.

Make eye contact with the judge as much as possible, but it is also important to be aware of your animal and what it is doing at all times.

Stand up straight and look confident.

You CAN teach your goat to brace (push against you), but do not pull his feet off the ground in the show ring.

NEVER go behind your goat to get to the other side. And when showing with a breeding loop lead, NEVER put your hand through the loop.

Know your project. Be able to answer questions about the main breeds of meat goats, rate of gain, dressing percent, wholesale cuts, anatomy, what & how much you are feeding him, and how to show his teeth.

Be a humble winner and a gracious loser -- practice good sportsmanship!

Most importantly, have fun - make friends - learn - help others - and it will be an experience that will last a lifetime.