Should I get this doe?

[taylorm17]

I found this girl and her kids. The mom is very pretty and registered. I only want registered goats right now who have been disbudded (therefore I am not getting her doeling. If the buckling of hers is registered then I will probably get him, if not her. I think that $100 for a doe is pretty good. As you can she gave twins last kidding. I emailed the owner and they haven't responded yet. The problem I have is that she is 8 years old. If she were one or two, I would take her in a heart beat! But I don't know if 8 is too old. I would be looking to have her give kids and milk her. How long do you think the average doe will give healthy kids with minimal problems? I think she is adorable. If I can convince my parents that she will give lots of milk and still kid for a few more ears, I think I could get her. I also wouldn't have to buy new fencing for a doe. And we wouldn't have a problem with our current does beating her up too bad since she will be full grown and 'played the game' for a few years. I really want her! I think if she could give kids for 4 more years, I will take her. 3 is good too, but is that stretching it? Thanks for any help. I gave some fun poll choices, so pick the one that best fits you and then give some reasons and your ideas below! Thanks

 

[taylorm17]

Spoiler: My vote!

I put the first choice...haha

Oh and here is the link to her post and her kids- http://cincinnati.craigslist.org/grd/4407388010.html

 

[frustratedearthmother]

If she looks good... good body weight.. nice coat...pink membranes and a working udder... why not give her a try? If you get even one successful kidding out of this doe then she's paid for herself.

I have a 12 year old pygmy who is due in less than a week so 8 sounds like a youngster!

 

[goatboy1973]

If your impression of the goats is healthy then look at where they are raised, the facilities (barn etc...), the other herd mates, how knowledgable the owner is about the history of the animals for sale, the health records and don't be afraid to quiz the seller as to what their health regimen is like for vaccinations, deworming, hoof trims, breeding schedule. Do they quarantine sick animals. As far as the goat is concerned, all goats should be inquisitive, alert, active, slightly vocal, not coughing or labored breathing, walk with a normal gait without limping or dragging hooves. Eyes should be bright, shiny and free of excess watering or dried discharge. The head and tail should be held erect most of the time especially when walking. A lowered head and/ or tail can be a sign of sickness or depression often related to some sort of illness.

 

[SheepGirl]

An older animal is a good buy, especially if they are healthy. They've had eight years to build up immunity to pathogens and such in their environment so their colostrum is worth its weight in gold as far as quality of the antibodies in it.

If you can buy her and breed her to a nice buck you may get a doeling or two that can replace her in a year or two and then you would have fresh, young stock to raise and breed and milk.

 

[SkyWarrior]

I'd give her a try. She looks sweet.