As spring brings new life to local farms, Old Dominion Veterinary Services is gearing up to support goat owners with essential services, including disbudding for young kids. This common procedure, which removes horn buds from young goats, is particularly relevant for dairy goat breeds.
Understanding the Need for Disbudding
While disbudding is a personal choice for goat owners, those who opt for the procedure do so for several reasons. These include enhanced safety for handlers and other livestock, particularly hornless animals, as well as adherence to breed standards for show animals. However, it’s important to note that disbudding is not mandatory – many goats lead perfectly healthy and content lives with their horns intact.
Timing is Everything
For owners choosing to disbud, timing is crucial. Veterinarians strongly recommend performing the procedure before kids reach 14 days of age. This early intervention not only minimizes discomfort but also reduces the likelihood of scurs – partial horn regrowth that can occur after disbudding.
Our Comprehensive Disbudding Service
To accommodate the seasonal need, weekly disbudding clinics are now being offered throughout the kidding season.
The comprehensive service is provided at a fixed-rate and includes:
Sedation: To make the procedure more comfortable for the kids.
Local Anesthesia: To ensure that the area is numbed so the kids experience minimal discomfort.
Pain Management: We provide appropriate aftercare to manage any pain following the procedure.
Vaccination: The initial CDT vaccine is also included, ensuring that the kids are protected against common diseases.
Interested goat owners should contact the office immediately after their kids are born to secure an appointment within the optimal time frame. Early scheduling ensures the best possible outcome for both the kids and their owners.
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