
18/03/2025
At Dandalee Park we tattoo all our dairy goats. We do this to permanently identify them as early as possible. Unlike mandatory tags -which we also use, tattoos can not fall out, be removed and replaced so are a good precaution in the case of theft etc. We tattoo very young using a small tattoo applicator. That also ensures the individual kid is permanently identifiable even before tags are fitted. It also allows us to wait until Nigerians ears grow a bit bigger before tagging. Tagging too young is more difficult and the weight of the tag can permanently spoil the kids ear carriage. Please note tags are mandatory in most states, tattoos are a mandatory requirement of some breeds societies (such as DGSA, with who we register our goats).
Tattooing is not difficult but it does require a degree of preparation and thoroughness to ensure administered and documented correctly. Easier done will kid is young and easier to restrain. Attached video is very informative and hope you find it helpful. It’s from USA. In Australia we also put our brand in the right ear. Your brand is stated on your PIC card. It’s unique to your property and is usually two letters and one number. You put a unique consecutive number for each kid in their left ear. In USA they combine this with a letter depicting the year. You may choose to do this however we simply use the next number in kidding order as listed in our kidding register. For example we are currently up to 1150. I can see merit in a year letter but the different coloured tags already depict the year born.
Tattoo equipment is available in Australia. However we purchased ours from Caprine Supplies (USA) as they had smaller equipment sizes more suited to Nigerians tiny ears.
Best of luck with tattooing your kids.
Step by step tutorial on how to tattoo a baby goat.You will learn what supplies you need and the best technique to make sure your tattooing experience is fla...