| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| cajungal |
Posted - Feb 16 2010 : 6:59:42 PM
As I get older it gets harder to toss a bag of feed on my shoulder. I need to start thinking about using a cart to haul things around. I am considering training one of my upcoming Boer buck/wether kids to pull a cart. I've never done it....just read about it.
What do I do? How early do I start? What kind of harnesses or equipment do I need? Is it worth it?
One of the best compliments from one of my daughters: "Moma, you smell good...like dirt." |
| 6 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| cajungal |
Posted - Feb 23 2010 : 07:59:46 AM
Grace, thank you for the info. I will check them out right now. It's good to know you've done this before.....very encouraging!
One of the best compliments from one of my daughters: "Moma, you smell good...like dirt." |
| grace gerber |
Posted - Feb 22 2010 : 08:14:56 AM
There is a group call PackGoat on Yahoo and they can get you started. They also have gatherings, equipment sales and swaps - tons of information. I have used my two large cashmere weathers to assist at times. I just used a sled in the winter to pull feed around the property. I have pack harnesses and I just tied the sled to that. The biggest issue on working with a goat is you have to have one who is willing to work and stay with your instructions. That is not always easy but the personality is the key. My sons even took my two weathers up hikeing and had them carry their equipment. At night the goat boys will crawl into my sons tent and act as little heaters and a soft place to put your head.
Good luck
Grace Gerber
Larkspur Funny Farm and Fiber Art Studio
Where the spirits are high and the fiber is deep
http://www.larkspurfunnyfarm.etsy.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.blogspot.com
http://larkspurfunnyfarm.artfire.com
|
| cajungal |
Posted - Feb 19 2010 : 5:38:59 PM
Thanks, gals.
I love the Hoegger stuff! It was their catalog equipment that started me thinking about having a "working goat" or a cart goat. The $50 harness isn't too out of my range....I've paid more for horse tack. But, the cart is too much for me but I think I can build something or make an adaptation to an existing garden cart.
I need to try to find some books on it.
One of the best compliments from one of my daughters: "Moma, you smell good...like dirt." |
| kristin sherrill |
Posted - Feb 17 2010 : 07:24:11 AM
Catherine, I just got my new Hoegger catalog the other day. They sell goat carts. I have always wanted to do this, too. I might just keep a few wethers this year and see if I can get one and get them trained. I would think they'd need to be big and strong enough to pull a cart. Especially with kids on it. They's need to be worked every day, too. Lots of time.
Kris
Happiness is simple. |
| aunt boby |
Posted - Feb 17 2010 : 06:07:56 AM
Great idea Catherine. I just receive a catalog in the mail yesterday from Hoegger Supply Company. They specialize in goat products. Their wagons and carts are a little pricey but they have work harnesses for around fifty dollars. It says goats are very easy to train and make very willing workers. If it lessens your load it is worth a shot. Their online site is www.thegoatstore.com. I have not a clue when you would start as you wouldn't want to strain a young one.
POOR IS THE MAN WHO CANNOT ENJOY THE SIMPLE THINGS IN LIFE- anonymous |
| doglady |
Posted - Feb 16 2010 : 8:43:47 PM
I'm not sure about goats but there are several breeds of dogs that were bred for carting - such as the Bouvier des Flandres. Just a thought and good luck.
You can tell your dog all of your secrets and they'll never say a word!
www.kennelcreations.com |
