Posted 2015-05-13 10:38 AM Subject: Goats as traveling partners
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 393 Location: Oklahoma
I was hoping I could get some advice on this. I entered a barrel race next month and felt like I only had one horse that was ready and the stalls where super expensive so I only bought one. My horse stress himself out and gets ulcers so I normally like to keep another horse with him. I've been thinking about borrowing a goat to go with us and see if this helps but I was wanting some opinions on this before I do it.
Posted 2015-05-13 10:48 AM Subject: RE: Goats as traveling partners
Expert
Posts: 1898
If your horse is not used to being stalled with a goat it will probably cause more stress than good. Horses who are not regularly stalled with goats will sometimes chase and kick goats, bad news for the goat.
Goats are ridiculously noisy when left alone. They are extremely social creatures and will cry the whole time they are by themselves. I don't know how the other competitors would feel about being stalled next to a screaming goat when your horse wasn't in it's stall.
Goats are also notorious for chewing off manes and tails if the horses are willing to let the goat get close enough!
Something else to think about is crossing state lines with them and the necessary paperwork to travel with a goat. I know all states are different.
Posted 2015-05-13 10:59 AM Subject: RE: Goats as traveling partners
Elite Veteran
Posts: 1119
I have one goat and while my horses don't typically mind her, they will also take an opportunity to run her off if they so choose. I don't think any of them would be comforted by her if they were alone.
Posted 2015-05-13 11:13 AM Subject: RE: Goats as traveling partners
I Chore in Chucks
Posts: 2882 Location: MD
I would put your horse on a calming supplement/aid vs hauling with something that might stress her. It's a different story if they are already best buddies.
Posted 2015-05-13 11:39 AM Subject: RE: Goats as traveling partners
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 393 Location: Oklahoma
I think I'm gonna look into getting a mini for future events but this ones so close I don't think I will be able to get one by then. And yes I always haul on ulcer guard. Thanks everyone!
Goats as traveling partners
