Checklist for New Owners

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• You will need to apply for a PIC number. (Property Identification number).  You will also need to order a NVD (National Vendor Declaration) book or register for an account online if you intend to breed your animals.  Different states have different rules and some states charge a fee for a PIC; so don't.

• A reputable breeder will answer your questions and provide you with a current photo and height for any animal/s you enquire about.

• It is advisable that you purchase from a registered breeder and you have seen a copy of the animals registration Certificate prior to purchase.  At the very least a copy of the Sire and Dams registration certificates.  You should expect a registration certificate within one month from the date of purchase for your animal/s.

• We encourage you to have all sale dealings in writing as sometimes things can go wrong.

• Its a good idea to familiarise yourself with grades/potential grades or the % of the animal/s you are purchasing.  

• Ask the breeder if the animal has a DNA certificate if Pygmy or Nigerian Dwarf breeding stock, ask for a copy.

• Its also advisable to check the sellers Terms or Conditions that may cover breeding stock and ensure any restrictions or agreed exceptions are in writing.

• Its a good idea to ascertain if a deposit is required, is refundable or not and when the balance is expected.

• Discuss transport methods and options with the seller as some breeders may be able to assist.

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• Check that the animal/s is the same animal you have agreed to purchase and if you cannot view the parents ask to see the parents paperwork.  If the animal you are purchasing is already registered ensure you sight and are given a copy of the registration papers and check the animal is the same as seen on the registration certificate/s.

• All animals must have an ear tag in their ear (Nigerian Dwarfs are exempt) as per state requirements and the ear tag should match the tag on their registration certificate.

• Check that animal/s look healthy. Check that the animal is not scouring (their rear end will be messy); check that their eyes and nose are clear of discharge; check they don't limp and that animal is steady when walking; there should be no obvious wounds and the animal should be curious, alert and not separated from the herd.

• The seller should give you a completed Waybill (NVD) or TSS (NSW) form to move the animal/s to your property; its also a good idea to ask the breeder, prior to pickup, to complete a National Goat Health Statement.

• It is always advisable to ask seller about the date the animal was last drenched, vaccinated and what was the vaccination for, if a breeding Doe the last kidding date and what the animal/s has been fed for a smooth transition into their new home. 

• If you purchase a Doe who has been running with a buck you should ensure you are given a completed service certificate.  If the animal/s is a Pygmy or Nigerian Dwarf Sire it is good to ask for DNA evidence for the progeny registration.

• Its always a good idea to ask for a receipt of payment. 

Some goats travel better than others so some will take longer than others to settle in especially as it is a strange environment with strange people and different sights and smells.

Spend some quiet time with them and only feed grass hay for the first day or so.  It is adviseable to quarantine new goats from others for a few weeks to ensure they don not pass on anything such as worms, lice, mites or disease.

If you have any issues contact the breeder as soon as possible.

There is no doubt you will enjoy your new family member as these little goats are endearing even to the fussiest of owners.