JUNK VOL 01 | Page 8

LET

US

GOAT

by: Ethan Sword

When you're asked to think of a domesticated household animal, the first thought that comes to mind would probably be something that you yourself own, that being a cat or a dog. Normally people are drawn to an immediate conclusion of what is, and is not, considered a "household animal". It goes without saying that one would not think of anything other than what is normally kept at home (i.e. inside or outside) as a household animal, or rather a pet (Good, Fido).

However, simply because it may not seem practical to keep a squirrel or an eagle at home, that does not mean that it is not considerable.

For purposes of practicality and benefit, one should not assume that any animal can be kept as a pet; that is dangerous. Don't do that.

Rather, what is constantly under debate is whether or not the doemstic householding of a goat is righteous or justifiable.

Normally goats are kept as domesticated animals; inherently, they are the first domesticated animal known to man. That being considered, why is it debatable whether you should keep one as a pet?

Simply stated, since a majority of goats are strictly used for the purpose of agricultural production, certain zoning regulations are often in place which specifically restrict the household domestication of farm animals. Unfortunately, over the years goats have fallen victim to the complex of being a "farm animal" (farm animals are used for the production of commodities such as milk or fibers). Nothing is necessarily wrong with this, however, if you want to own a farm animal, specifically goats, there are certain rules that need to be met, even if you plan to own only one for purposes other than commodity production.