Raising Goats – How To Add An Alternative Income When Rearing Goats
Image by Andy Ciordia
1/2g Goat Milk, raising it to about 190′
Article by Ted Allen
With the ever increasing expenses, one needs to be smart in coming up with ways on how to generate income. One business, raising goats, has since become a popular way to be financially stable. Unlike poultry or other animals, goats are relatively easy to take care of. They can survive with the least supervision as long as they are safe against the weather and they are provided with enough food and water.
How does one earn a living out of raising goats? First, it is a fact that goats are a major contender in the field of milk production. Goat milk is more favored by many over cow milk because the former is easier to digest. Thus, goat milk is more advisable to drink among babies and sick people. You can also capitalize on the milk by supplying it to dairy-processing plants. Even soaps and lotion have been made out of goat’s milk, which only widen the market.
If you do not plan on raising goats for milk, then making money out of their meat is an alternative. Goat meat is more expensive than pork or beef, especially if you have the better breeds. You may also sell the wool obtained from shearing the goats. Such fiber commands a hefty price in the market. Should you decide to focus on deriving income from wool, needless to say that you need to exert extra effort in taking care of the goats to make sure that they do not suffer from illness.
Some people, although tempted to start raising goats, are doubtful as to the success of executing it. They think that those people who have experienced living in the countryside have a better hand in managing a business such as goat farming. Contrary to this belief, everyone can be an expert in handling goats as long as he is willing to learn the in and out of the industry. Yes, this is no joke because you will be required to shell out a considerable amount, but if you are equipped with the training and knowledge, nothing will go to waste.
You may start with assessing first your location. Is it fit for raising goats? If not, then perhaps you can scout for a better home for your animals. This need not be a vast open field, but a place where the goats will be comfortable living in. Better start with a few goats and a barn wide enough for them. Maximize your resources such as food like hay or grass to cut down on expenses. Befriend people who have been raising goats for a long time as they can share with you the best practices.
