How to Vaccinate a Goat

Goats serve many purposes, whether they are used for meat, as pets, show animals and working animals. No matter what you use goats for, they must be vaccinated and cared for properly. Vaccines can keep your goat healthy and prevent them from catching deadly diseases. Learn how to vaccinate a goat with the following steps.

Instructions

1. Know what vaccinations are available for goats. Clostridium perfringens types C and D + tetanus toxoid and the multivalent clostridial vaccine are two vaccines that your goat should not be without. Both of these vaccines cover more than one disease; the multivalent clostridial vaccine is an 8-way vaccine.

2. Determine what your goats are used for. Special precautions should be taken if you use your goats for meat. Some vaccines should not be given a certain number of days before slaughter. If you travel with your goat, it may need other vaccines.

3. Talk to your veterinarian so you are prepared for disease outbreaks in your area. Some vaccines are not needed unless a disease has been found in close proximity to your area.

4. Vaccinate your goats on a schedule. Male goats can be vaccinated once a year, while pregnant and young goats may need more frequent vaccinations.

5. Watch your goats for wounds and other health problems. Some vaccines may need to be given if your goat is wounded or hurt. These vaccines may not be warranted in healthy goats until they are prescribed by a veterinarian.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep track of the vaccination schedule so you don't fall behind.

• Don't think that if you only have one goat that it can't get sick because there are no other goats around. Even solitary goats must be vaccinated to stay healthy and disease free.