PROJECT WETHERS

Our emphasis is on producing outstanding project wethers.  One of our first wethers sold was Supreme Champion at our local district fair.  We have since produced wethers that have won from one end of the state to the other.

Our wethers are banded for a clean underline.  All wethers are dehorned, dewormed, vaccinated, weaned and on feed so they are ready to win for you.

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

The following are tips from Judge Judy, which, I hope are helpful.

 

Showing Tips from Judge Judy

This year has been a fantastic year for meat goats at county fairs and CJLA jackpots. The quality and quantity of meat goats has improved dramatically in a short period of time.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to meet and get to know many dynamic young people throughout the state.  I have been extremely impressed with your level of involvement and the hard work you have put into your projects.

Although we are always improving I wanted to take the opportunity to highlight some things in the show ring that I feel anyone raising a goat project needs to remember.  Keep up the good work and have fun!

 

Before you purchase your goat project:

Learn as much as you can before actually purchasing a goat, talk to the breeders, attend other shows and ask questions!  This will help ensure that you will know how to take care of your goat and create contacts for information if 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.

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

 

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 unit.

Maintain your goat's health.  Treat any 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.

 

At the show:

Know when you show – be ready and 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 – straight lines

It is best to clip your goat 7 days before show date – use Lister standard blades against the hair. Some goats were clipped too short – or too long.

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

 

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 smile.

You CAN teach your goat to push against you but you can not pull his feet off the ground.

NEVER go behind your goat or put your hand in the loop of the strap.

Be courteous and help your fellow exhibitor whenever possible.

Know your project: At times I have been surprised by the answers when I ask questions about meat goats. You will need to know the major breeds of meat goats, rate of gain, idea market weights, dressing percents, what you are feeding your goat and how much, how to mouth a goat, etc.

All of the answers can be found at www.boergoats.com

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.