Meet the Author: Deborah Niemann

With over two decades of hands-on goat farming experience, Deborah Niemann has become a trusted voice in natural animal husbandry. In Raising Goats Naturally, 2nd Edition, she shares her practical wisdom gained from raising goats on her own homestead in Illinois. Niemann's clear, accessible writing style makes complex topics easy to understand, whether she is explaining kidding protocols or herbal deworming. She also leads workshops across the country and contributes to homesteading publications. Her practical wisdom empowers readers to make informed decisions and enjoy the rewards of goat keeping.

Perfect for Every Level of Goat Keeper

This guide adapts to your needs, whether you are a hobbyist with a few backyard goats or a small-scale farmer aiming for self-reliance. It is particularly suited for those who prefer natural approaches and want to reduce reliance on commercial inputs like chemical wormers and synthetic feeds. Beginners will appreciate the step-by-step instructions, while seasoned keepers will find advanced tips for improving herd health and productivity through holistic management.

Updates in the Second Edition

The updated edition includes expanded sections on herbal health care, pasture management, and niche markets for goat products like artisanal cheese and goat milk soap. It also reflects the latest research on goat behaviour and sustainable farming practices, including rotational grazing and parasite control without drugs. Readers of the first edition will find fresh insights and revised recommendations that keep pace with the growing homestead movement.

All You Need to Know About Goat Care

This comprehensive manual leaves no stone unturned when it comes to goat keeping. From housing to harvesting, you'll find everything you need. You'll explore:

• Housing and Fencing: Safe, economical shelters and predator-proof enclosures.
• Feeding and Nutrition: Forage-based diets, supplements, and seasonal considerations.
• Health and Wellness: Preventive care, common ailments, and natural remedies.
• Breeding and Kidding: Genetics, pregnancy care, and newborn management.
• Milk Production: Milking techniques, hygiene, and processing into cheese, yogurt, and soap.
• Meat Processing: Butchering, curing, and cooking from pasture to plate.

What Sets This Book Apart

Whether you are a first-time goat owner or an experienced homesteader, this book offers a thorough, practical approach to keeping goats the natural way. Its emphasis on sustainable, chemical-free methods benefits both the animals and their keepers. The guide covers everything from selecting the right breed to managing a small dairy or meat operation, all while minimizing veterinary interventions and maximizing self-sufficiency. Niemann’s philosophy centres on working with nature rather than against it.

This book is not a substitute for veterinary advice but a companion for those committed to natural animal husbandry.