You will also note the dosages for goats is often MUCH more than what it says on the label. This is because goats have a much higher metabolism than most other livestock, so the medications are out of their system very quickly. If you under dose you are helping the parasites build up resistance plus you are wasting money on the deworming medication.
Always weigh your goat before giving any dewormer to prevent under-dosing or over
Click here for more info on Smart Drenching from the Southern Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control (SCSRPC).
Need help getting accurate weights on your goats?
For kids, an infant scale or pet scale works great. For smaller goats simply pick up the goat and step on a bathroom scale. Next weigh yourself alone and subtract your weight from the first combined weight. The difference is the goat’s weight.
For large goats you can use a sling scale and pulley system (best option) or a Dairy Goat tape measure (available at most livestock supply stores).
Wrap the Dairy Goat tape around the heart girth area of the goat (this is the area just behind the front legs). The tape should be snug while the goat stands naturally. Since this is a Dairy Goat tape measure if you’re weighing a meat goat this is NOT an exact method of measurement, but should work better than just blindly guessing.
Learn more info on FAMACHA for Internal Parasites from the University of Florida (opens as a .PDF file).
***Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian. The information on this page is based on information gathered from long time goat breeders, veterinarians and our past experiences. This is not intended to replace professional veterinary and/or medical advice. We disclaim all liability in connection with the use of these products and/or information.