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.
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.
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.
