does anyone know how to tell if a pygmy goats in labor?

Question

i have a pygmy goat that is due in the next 2 weeks how do i tell when shes going into labor? what will i need to have when she does?

there are no vets within 1000 miles that she these types of animals.

Answer 1

It is a good idea to brush up on your skills, and make sure there is a vet on call in case of emergency. Goats typically don't have any problems. When they are ready, the baby "drops" in the abdomen, and the sides do not bulge out as much. Labor goes quickly. The doe will find a quiet place, and her sides will heave. Often, she will pant. You should have a pair of latex gloves, iodine, and strong, sterile scissors (boil them for 10 minutes and store in alcohol). You should aslo have whatever vaccines the vet reccommends for your area.

When the kid starts presenting, gently palpate the vaginal opening. You should feel two sets of hooves, pointing forward, and the muzzle, in some combination. You can gently grasp and tug, or just let mom do the work It goes quickly if nothing is wrong.

Signs of trouble (very uncommon but not impossible): only one leg presents, the head is sideways, or the goat is in obvious distress. Most cases, it is possible to gently reach in with one gloved hand and turn the kid. If labor lasts for more than an hour be concerned. If the doe is pushing, but nothing is coming out, the kid may be sideways, and it is time to call the vet. If the doe has an unusual discharge that is foul smelling or bloody, call the vet immediately.

The kid(s) usually are born without incident. You will want to help clear the mucus from the nostrils, and help dry them off with an old towel. Cut the umbilical cord carefully with the sterile scissors, and treat the end with iodine. I usually helped deliver the placenta, too, and checked it for any abnormalities (could tell me if there was a potential scarring. when the kid can stand, I make sure that it can nurse properly, and is trong enough to nurse. This is crucial- the kid needs the milk that comes within the first few hours. It is also a good idea to give the mother a vitamin supplement after birth.

Good luck!

Answer 2

Get an appointment with your vet and have all your questions answered. Don't half-step on this...you are responsible for the care of the animal and the off-spring, so you really should be prepared for all possible events.

Good luck.

Answer 3

Get an appointment consisting of your vet and characteristic all of your questions responded. do not 1/2-step in this...you're to blame for the care of the animal and the off-spring, so that you fairly should be prepared for all conceivable activities. sturdy luck.