How to Build Shelters for Fainting Goats

Fainting goats have a condition known as myotonia congenita that causes their muscles to contract in times of high stress. It can cause them to stiffen or fall over. Despite this condition, fainting goats do not require unusual shelters and make great pets.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 2-by-4 inch wooden boards
• 4-by-4 inch wooden posts
• Thick, strong plywood
• Tin and/or shingles
• Concrete
• Hammer and nails
• Straw or shavings

Planning for the Shelter

1. Consider the climate to determine what type of shelter to build. It's most important that fainting goats are protected from wind and rain.

2. Decide how big you need to build the shelter, depending on the number of goats you currently have. Also, keep the climate in mind. Decide if a smaller space will keep them warmer in winter, or if they need more space to stay cool in summer.

3. Find a location for the shelter. A three-sided shed works well for mild climates. However, a four-sided shelter with a small door might be ideal. The goats can roam in and out, but it will provide them with more warmth and protection from predators.

4. Consider how many fainting goats you plan to have in the future. If you are you looking to expand your herd, keep this in mind when you build a shelter. You can easily add sections or stalls if necessary.

5. Decide on your budget. If you are serious about breeding/selling goats, then you may spend more on a shelter than a hobbyist. Natural shade and wind breaks are adequate shelter in most climates, but a simple, draft-free, three-sided shed is relatively cheap and provides good protection.

Building the Shelter

6. Find a suitable location: high, flat ground that won't flood. The back of the shelter should face the wind, so your goats have protection from drafts.

7. Measure how big you want the shelter to be. Consider at least 10-by-10 feet for up to three goats, and larger if you will breed them or plan on keeping more goats.

8. Dig four holes for the corner posts. The holes should be at least 3 feet deep. Reinforce the posts with concrete. Let the concrete dry around the posts before adding dirt, and pack the dirt tightly.

9. Build the three sides with sturdy 2-x-4 inch wooden boards. Use at least three boards for each side, spacing them evenly. Use at least four nails for each end of the boards: two on one side, two on the other. Nail boards in place for the roof.

10. Build the roof from thick plywood and shingles or tin. Tin will be quicker and cheaper, but may not be as aesthetically pleasing.

11. Nail thick plywood boards to the inside of the shelter. It will prevent the goats from climbing and will provide extra protection from the elements. Nail plywood and/or tin to the outside.

12. Add bedding to the floor of the shelter. Straw and/or pine shavings work very well.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider buying a pre-made shed or large dog house.
• If you plan on breeding your goats, consider building a sectioned-off area or stall for the mother and kids.
• Fainting goats are easy prey for dogs and coyotes, so your shelter must be sturdy and enclosed.
• Goats DO NOT like to get wet. Also, though fainting goats tolerate cold climates well, they are susceptible to drafts. If your goats are exposed to wind and rain and cannot find shelter, they can become sick very quickly and even die.

Resources

• Visit the International Fainting Goat Association website.
• Buy a sturdy, pre-made dog house here for about $80 to $200.
• Find high-quality but expensive sheds for sale at Home Depot.