How to Milk a Goat That Kicks
Goat milk is used for everything from cheese to ice cream; it is consumed by more people in the world than cow milk. Goat milk is self homogenizing, meaning it doesn't separate into layers of cream. It contains less lactose than cow milk, and is more easibly drinkable for people with lactose intolerance. Getting milk from a goat is not always easy. A kicking goat can spill your milk bucket, and injure itself or you.
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Instructions
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Use a milking stand consisting of a raised platform with a headgate. The headgate holds the goat's head so it can't run off while you're milking. The back of the headgate usually holds a bucket containing oats or grain. Allow the goat to eat during milking; this reduces stress and usually makes the milking experience more pleasant.
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Use a goat hobble; this is an adjustable nylon strap that fits comfortably around a nanny goat's back legs. The goat can't kick or thrash; the hobble compels it to stand quietly for milking.
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Be calm; animals are adept at sensing human emotion. Goats become uncomfortable when you're frustrated or nervous. Take a few deep breaths, and approach the goat in a calm and relaxed manner.
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Avoid injuring the goat's teats and udder. Your nanny goat might be kicking to tell you that you're causing her pain. Gently grab the teat -- where it meets the udder -- with your thumb and forefinger. Wrap your fingers around the teat from top to bottom, move the milk down to the opening and squeeze.
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References
- Photo Credit goat 1 image by Paul Woodward from Fotolia.com
