Provide a dry shelter for your goats so they can get in out of the sun, wind, rain, and snow. I have been told that in most cases a three sided shelter is sufficient, we have a shed that we close at night to keep them safe. Dry bedding should be provided for them and changed when it gets soiled. We use shavings and straw for bedding. In warm weather months we just use shavings. Goats should be fed preferably twice a day, however once a day is sufficient as long as the feed is adequate for their weight and the feed is of good quality. We prefer to feed our goats twice a day. Refer to the feeding instructions provided on the bag from the goat feed manufacturer. Do not overfeed grain. Hay should be offered free choice. When changing your goats diet, you should change it gradually over the course of a few days. This will avoid complications. Goats love treats!! Ours love raisins, oranges, chopped apple (no seeds), bananas, popcorn, animal crackers and even some cereals! The adults mainly go crazy for treats, but the kids will soon catch on. A mineral block should be available inside the pen, where it can not get wet. Tractor Supply is a great place to find all the goat items that you need. Fresh, clean water should be provided daily and available at all times. Warm water in the winter, cool water in the summer. Watering containers should be cleaned and scrubbed every other day at least! We do our everyday with bleach. Feeders should be clean and positioned so the goat cannot stand in it and soil the feed.  Never feed your goat on the ground as this can increase the chances of worms and effect your goats overall health, and goats usually will not eat anything that has touched the ground. Hooves should be trimmed once a month or as needed.  Concrete slabs or patio blocks placed where the goat walks often can help keep the hooves trimmed, but will not altogether replace trimming. Ask your veterinarian about worming frequencies & types of wormers.  Worming twice a year with a paste is normal, however your vet may wish to discuss with you alternative worming programs and frequencies. Our vet has us on a schedule of using a wormer every 3 months. All of our Kids leave here with their C D&T vaccine. Goats are herd animals and do best with another goat or compatible farm animal. One goat is a lonely goat. We will not sell just one goat to anyone who doesn't have other goats. Be aware of any toxic plants in your yard.  Poisonous plants such as Rhododendron or Azalea can harm or kill your goat. These goat care basics are suggestions only.  Any questions or concerns regarding your goat should be referred to a qualified veterinarian.