11/01/2025
Social Media - A word of warning
Advances in technology continues to provide goat enthusiasts with an increasing array of communication channels to help them get the most out of this wonderful pastime. Social media platforms can assist sourcing goats, equipment, meeting and communicating with others who share this passion. They can be very useful to share experiences and seek advice, however there are also dangers associated with this medium and users need to be vigilant and take care when using these.
1. Scammers. unfortunately, as with many forums where things are bought and sold, some vendors may not be legitimate or their products as advertised. This is particularly true with sales of higher priced goats such as Nigerian Dwarfs. Unfortunately some sale adverts are scams. Vendors having stolen photos from legitimate breeders pages and used to place “false/fake advertisements”. Buyers should take care to investigate thoroughly and ask to view the animals, equipment or products before forwarding deposits etc.
2. inferior quality. Not all goats are equal. Cheapest doesn’t mean best - and poor quality goats eat just as much as productive, quality ones. I encourage you to purchase quality stock through reputable breeders. Request information on health status, CAE and Johnes testing, worming and drenching regime etc. registered goats should come with papers that confirm breeding pedigrees, age etc. if buying to milk ask for milking history, production data, milk awards of the goats on offer and/or close relatives. Ideally try milking does yourself prior to determine ease and temperament. If too young or unkidded investigate the qualities of other close female relatives, particularly mother, sisters, sires mother etc. as traits are often very hereditary.
3. Unqualified advice. Too many times I’ve seen posts on social media asking for veterinary advice. Usually this consists of a single photo accompanied by often limited information. This can be very problematic as responses are based on this limited information, which may not fully present all the necessary facts, symptoms or context. Responses, whilst sent with good intent, can be unqualified, misinformed, outdated or even dangerous to the goat’s health. I strongly encourage you to seek professional advice and set up your own communication channels with experienced mentors and veterinarians outside social media chat rooms.
4. Risk to privacy. Be aware publicly publishing personal information can leave you at risk of being robbed, identity theft or being targeted. For example, radical anti farming groups were creating maps of farms (including goats) for use in targeted raids etc. one dairy was the subject of a number of these raids that caused a huge biosecurity risk and disrupted their business multiple times. Goats were stolen and it caused significant financial and emotional burden to that business.
Whilst social media can be a wonderful forum to showcase, celebrate and share - do so carefully and be aware of risks. Enjoy!!