[lizzypeg]

im looking into getting an angora goat in future.i currently have two pygmy wethers who are horned.would an angora live happily with pygmies..do they need any different care than my pygmies.
also any breeders near me in kent.

[ballingall]

Biggest difference is that they need sheared, so either you need to find someone who will shear them, or learn to do it yourself. They also need a close eye kept on their feet, as they originate from drier climates than we have here. Angoras are generally horned, so there shouldn't be any difficulty keeping them with the pygmies.


Afraid I don't know any breeders in Kent though!


Beth

[lizzypeg]

hi thanks..iv got sheep so have a shearer who I can use and also do hand shear sometimes but mostly just for dagging.

[Dogwalker]

Hello yes I've got some angoras.
The main difference between them and my dairy goats is their feet are a constant problem. Don't know if that's just mine but have heard from other owners that they have problems too.
They graze more than dairy goats and stay out in the rain which doesn't do them any good at all.  More high maintenance

The society website should have a list of breeders or email the secretary.  I know Ian and Frances  Mason in the New Forest 'Linden' herd but not sure of any nearer you.

Can't type any more now I'll check back tomorrow.

[Old Shep]

I have some and also have foot problems (scald)  thought it was just ours! They need dry ground which is a bit difficult at the moment! Apart from that much the same maintenance as pygmies not as adept at climbing which may be a good thing!  I really like mine they have lovely temperaments.

[Angdown]

I have a small herd and breed them. I'm in Sussex. They are not escape artists, lovely natured, hard to shear but we do it ourselves. It's done twice a year. The feet can be an issue, we have ours stabled over the winter which is harder work but it seems better all round. 

[lizzypeg]

thanks for the imput.i currently stable my pygmy wethers over winter anyway as they hate the mud/rain, so it may work well if I got angoras as should fit in with my current plans...

[Dogwalker]

I expect your place is a bit drier than mid Wales too.

I have a theory that because they have been bred so successfully for fleece their feet have been secondary and being the same substance as hair also grow fast and soft.
I rarely have trouble with the dairy goats feet that are kept in the same conditions.  I've just got antibiotics from the vet to try and break the bad feet cycle and clear it  properly for once.  It's an on going battle.
They are lovely though.  Less athletic than some other goats.  and the kids are the cutest ever.

[Lesley Silvester]

If I had the space and better health, I would be tempted to add some Angoras to my herd.