Goat Care in Flood

Goat Shed Management

• During the rainy season, proper goat-shed management is crucial. Prevent waterlogging inside the shed.
• Keep the shed well-ventilated. If humidity is high, use fans to maintain dryness.
• At night, protect goats from cold by covering the shed with tarpaulin or closing windows, while still allowing airflow.
• Kids (baby goats) need warmth; provide 100–200 watt bulbs for heating.
• Ensure proper disposal and management of goat dung and urine.

Fodder Management

• During heavy rains, goats are often tied in one place all day and cannot graze. Hence, fodder must be provided at their shelter.
• The fodder should not be wet or damp; ensure it is completely dry.
• Due to humidity, stored fodder may develop fungus. Eating such fodder can harm goat health.
• Farmers should dry green fodder before feeding.
• Proper fodder management helps prevent diseases like diarrhea and indigestion.

Vaccination

• Excess rainfall increases the risk of various diseases in goats.
• In heavy rainfall areas, goats must be vaccinated against Enterotoxaemia.
• Standing in wet, muddy places often leads to Foot rot, while eating fungus-infected fodder causes diarrhea and indigestion. To control these, goats should receive the ETV (Enterotoxaemia vaccine).
• Rainy conditions also increase cases of cold and pneumonia; farmers should seek prompt treatment.

Disposal of Dead Animals

• Heavy rains may cause animals to drown or die, making proper disposal of carcasses essential.
• If carcasses remain near sheds or drinking water sources, they endanger both goat and human health by spreading disease.
• Therefore, animal carcasses should be disposed of scientifically by burning or deep burial.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. How should a goat shed be maintained during floods?
   It should be airy, dry, and free from waterlogging.
2. What type of fodder should be given to goats?
   Provide dry, fungus-free green fodder.
3. Which vaccinations are necessary for goats during heavy rains?
   Vaccinations against Enterotoxaemia (ETV) are essential.
4. Which diseases are more common in goats during monsoon?
   Foot rot, diarrhea, indigestion, cold, and pneumonia.
5. How should dead goats be disposed of?
   By scientific methods – burning or deep burial.