Book Review
7
Natural Goat Care
Reviewed by Laura Giles
Author: Pat Coleby
ISBN: 978-0-911311-66-2
371 pages
Copyright 2001
Price $28.00
Author, Pat Coleby, created a sensation when Natural Goat Care was first released in her native Australia in 1993. Now it has come to North America, and the rave reviews continue.
Natural Goat Care provides detailed coverage of correct housing and farming methods, choosing the right livestock, diagnosing health problems, psychological needs of goats, nutritional requirements and feeding practices, vitamins, minerals, herbal, homeopathic and natural remedies, and breeds and breeding techniques. While the coverage of these topics is not in depth, the overview is enough to get a new goat owner started, and give seasoned goat owners new things to ponder.
I believe a new crop of consumers who demand hormone-free and antibiotic- free products as well as sustainable practices, make this a timely addition to the literary landscape. Coleby's focus on prevention and wellness through high quality feeds, adequate supplementation, and pasture management may improve your operation and lower costs through reductions in vet visits. Certainly many of the reviewers on Amazon seem to think so.
However, the suggestions are not universally approved by all reviewers. Some feel that the advice on copper, in particular, is dangerous. My personal experience with it has been positive, but every situation is different. Coleby agrees. She never says, "Do this." She gives guidelines that should be altered to
this." She gives guidelines that should be altered to suit your situation. Given those parameters, I think this is a book that can enhance any operation.
The other reason to buy this book is the quick and dirty treatment options. For example, if you notice dandruff in your herd, you do not have to wonder if that is a passing oddity or a sign of something brewing. You can go to page 231 and see that Coleby says you can remedy this with free choice seaweed meal. You will see the results for yourself in a day or two, so it is low risk. When traditional medications are called for, Coleby admits to that as well. The book does not say there is no place for them. It just focuses on preventing the need for them.
There is something for new and old goat owners in this book. I highly recommend it even if you aren't into natural goat care.