Best Small Ruminants Podcasts (2026)

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Running a Goat Rescue: What It Really Takes 31:12

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4d ago31:12

31:12

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-rescue/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description When people think about animal rescue, they often picture a few animals and a lot of good intentions. In this episode, host Deborah Niemann talks with Deborah Blum, founder of Goatlandia Farm Animal Sanctuary in …

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FBC Christmas Special! 21:25

18d ago21:25

21:25

The Ruminant lives!...mainly to cross-post episodes of Jordan's other show, Farming in British Columbia, when they're of a broader appeal. Herein: the Farming in British Columbia 2025 Christmas Special!

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S5 Ep 03: Big Island Invasive Species Committee (BIISC): Risks, Responses, And Resources 34:29

26d ago34:29

34:29

We talk with Franny Brewer of the Big Island Invasive Species Committee about how prevention, early detection, and community reporting protect Hawaii’s farms, forests, and neighborhoods. From port monitoring to nematode injections, we map the tools anyone can use to slow the spread. • Role of BIISC across prevention, detection, response, and educat…

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LWP Mini S5 Ep 3: Monthly Livestock Updates From Hawaii & Nebraska 8:32

1M ago8:32

8:32

A quick tour of the month’s livestock calendar spans Hawaii’s backyard poultry workshop, a statewide brand re-registration reminder, and Nebraska’s lineup of ag outlooks, tax updates, land lease sessions, captive insurance training, and ranch succession planning. We point to the tools, dates, and choices that help producers manage risk and prepare …

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Goat Notes: What to Feed a Pregnant Goat 7:33

2M ago7:33

7:33

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/what-to-feed-a-pregnant-goat/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description: Proper nutrition during pregnancy is essential for keeping both does and kids healthy — but more isn’t always better! In this short, science-based episode, Deborah Niemann explains how to balanc…

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Goats in America: A Cultural History with Author Tami Parr 19:25

2M ago19:25

19:25

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goats-in-america/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description If you’ve ever wondered how goats went from being banned in colonies to beloved on social media, this episode is for you! In this episode of For the Love of Goats, host Deborah Niemann talks with Tami Parr, …

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S5 Ep 02: Tools To Help Keep Small Ruminants Healthy 23:09

2M ago23:09

23:09

We lay out a practical, year-round plan to manage internal parasites in sheep and goats using selective treatment, better pasture use, and simple records that prevent resistance. Barber pole worm takes center stage as we share tools that cut losses and keep flocks productive. • why barber pole worm is the primary threat • signs like anemia and bott…

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Parasite Resistance with Dr. Emma Borkowski 45:36

2M ago45:36

45:36

Send us a text This month we sat down with Dr. Emma Borkowski - Assistant Professor of Pathology at Ontario Veterinary College - to discuss her work surrounding parasite management in sheep and goats. Dr. Borkowski discusses a project that was funded by AASRP to help evaluate efficacy of various methods of storing fecal samples before analysis for …

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Goat Milk Gelato in Sweden 16:41

2M ago16:41

16:41

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-milk-ice-cream-and-gelato/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your goat milk into something people line up for, this episode is for you! In this episode of For the Love of Goats, host Deborah Niemann chats with Oskar Ed…

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Goat Yoga: A Story of Connection, Calm, and Cuddly Goats 22:17

3M ago22:17

22:17

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-yoga/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description When people hear you have goats, one of the first questions they ask is, “Do you do goat yoga?” In this fun and fascinating episode, host Deborah Niemann talks with the person who started it all—Lainey Morse, found…

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S5 Ep 01: How We Recruit, Onboard, And Keep Great Ag Employees 45:19

3M ago45:19

45:19

We examine why hiring feels harder across agriculture and share a practical system to recruit, onboard, and retain employees on farms and ranches. We compare labor signals in Hawaii, Nebraska, and the U.S., then turn data into day-one checklists, mentorship, and culture that lasts. • Hawaii, Nebraska, and U.S. labor snapshots and trends • Why appli…

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LWP Mini S5 Ep2: October Highlights 13:38

3M ago13:38

13:38

We share fast, practical updates producers can use now, from poultry health recordings and a five-part swine biosecurity series to finance tools, risk webinars, and a simple system to organize vital documents. Hawaiʻi and Nebraska resources align to protect herds, tighten budgets, and keep families prepared. • Poultry basics webinar recap with Dr G…

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Uterine Tears in Goats 32:56

3M ago32:56

32:56

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/uterine-tears-in-goats/-- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Daniela Luethy, Assistant Professor of Large Animal Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, to discuss the realities of uterine tears in goats, risk…

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New World Screwworm with USDA's Dr. Rosemary Sifford 30:48

3M ago30:48

30:48

Send us a text This month we sat down with Dr. Rosemary Sifford - Deputy Administrator and Chief Veterinary Officer for USDA-APHIS to discuss a zoonotic health threat that is creeping closer to the United States: New World Screwworm. Dr. Sifford explains what New World Screwworm is, why it is a threat to US livestock, and what veterinarians should …

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Producer Spotlight: Heritage Sheep Breeds & On-Farm Research with Richard Marlar 43:41

4M ago43:41

43:41

Send us a text This month we sit down with Richard Marlar, a physician and president of the Navajo-Churro Sheep Association to talk about heritage livestock breeds - specifically the Navajo-Churro - which have been integral to the settlement and development of the US. Richard also discusses Split Upper Eyelid Disorder (SUED), a developmental disord…

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The Science of Goat Milk and Skin Care 40:52

4M ago40:52

40:52

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/the-science-of-goat-milk-and-skin-care/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description Goat milk has been used for centuries to soothe and nourish skin—but now science is catching up to explain why it works so well. In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Brent …

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LWP Mini S5 Ep1: Livestock News Roundup 16:14

4M ago16:14

16:14

Mele and Shannon provide an update on essential concerns for producers and upcoming livestock events in Hawaii and Nebraska. • Three-day poultry basics webinar series (September 17-19) covering health, food safety, and environmental management with Dr. Gregory Archer from Texas A&M • Small ruminant health workshop in Hilo (September 20) featuring p…

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Goat Packing and Public Lands: How NAPgA Keeps the Trails Open 19:17

5M ago19:17

19:17

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-packing-and-public-lands/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Chris Gifford, president of the North American Packgoat Association (NAPgA), to talk about the growing challenges that pack goat owners face when it…

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Packgoats 101: Getting Started with Hiking Companions on Hooves 21:01

5M ago21:01

21:01

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/packing-with-goats/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description If you're considering adding pack goating to your goats’ resumes, this episode is packed with practical tips and essential insights. Deborah Niemann chats with Nathan Putnam, a board member of the North Am…

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Dairy Goat Sustainability with Jenn Bentley 31:00

5M ago31:00

31:00

Send us a text Join us for a discussion about a collaborative research project currently in the works headed up by Iowa State University. Jennifer Bentley, a dairy field specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, discusses the aims of the current project including assessing prevalence and treatment options for common diseases aff…

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Turning Goat Milk into Pet Food: Labeling and Licensing Essentials 40:44

6M ago40:44

40:44

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/turning-goat-milk-into-pet-food/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to legally sell raw goat milk or farm-made pet treats, this episode is full of first-hand insight and practical tips. Deborah sits down with Carly Brown a…

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The Secret to a Successful Farm Volunteer Program 32:13

6M ago32:13

32:13

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/farm-volunteer-program/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this episode, Deborah Niemann welcomes Anne Petersen of Rosasharn Farm—one of the longest-standing Nigerian Dwarf breeders in the U.S.—to talk about her farm's long-running and highly successful vol…

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Producer Spotlight: Alpaca Farming with Christian Davies & Dr. Rachel Friedrich 46:59

6M ago46:59

46:59

Send us a text This month we sit down with Christian Davies (of C&M Acres Alpacas and Fiber Mill) and his veterinarian, Dr. Rachel Friedrich from Iowa State University's Veterinary Field Service. Christina and his wife, Michele, raise alpacas and operate a fiber mill in Maxwell, IA. Dr. Friedrich not only provides veterinary care for C&M Acres but …

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How Beekman 1802 Used GOAT Wisdom to Build a Beloved Brand 31:10

7M ago31:10

31:10

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-wisdom/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description What do you get when two city guys buy a goat farm during the Great Recession? A global skincare brand built on goat milk—and timeless wisdom. In this inspiring episode, Deborah talks with Josh Kilmer-Purcell and…

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Call the Vet Now 32:07

7M ago32:07

32:07

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/call-the-vet-now/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description Most goat owners have faced a moment of uncertainty—staring at a sick goat and wondering, “Should I call the vet?” In this solo episode, Deborah Niemann lays out the answer with clarity and urgency. While go…

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Range Sheep and Guardian Dogs with Dr. Jake Thorne 39:53

7M ago39:53

39:53

Send us a text Join us for a discussion about genetic evaluations, parasite management, and livestock guardian dogs with Dr. Jake Thorne, Assistant Professor and Extension Sheep and Goat Specialist at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research Station in San Angelo, TX. In this episode, Dr. Thorne discusses methods for genetic evaluation of sheep with a speci…

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Coping with the Loss of a Beloved Goat or Pet 23:48

8M ago23:48

23:48

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to -- https://thriftyhomesteader.com/loss-of-a-beloved-goat-or-pet/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description Losing a beloved animal—whether a goat, dog, cat, or any other companion—can be absolutely heartbreaking. In this episode of For the Love of Goats, I’m joined by Beth Bigler, a double-certified …

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Producer Spotlight: Linda Detwiler & her Suffolk sheep 41:08

8M ago41:08

41:08

Send us a text This month we are testing out a new type of episode where we will sit down with a veterinarian and one of their exceptional producers to dig into how their relationship benefits the livestock they care for. Our first guests are Dr. Linda Detwiler and her veterinarian, Dr. Jon Higgins from New Jersey. Linda raises Suffolk sheep for br…

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S4 Ep12: From Mauka to Makai: How Wildfire Prevention Protects Hawaii's Ecosystem 25:57

9M ago25:57

25:57

Elizabeth Pickett of Hawaii Wildfire Management Organization shares her 17-year journey from marine conservation to wildfire prevention, explaining how post-fire erosion damages coastal ecosystems and the organization's evolution to address this connection. After decades developing resources with limited public engagement, the devastating 2023 Laha…

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C-section Survival with Dr. George Elane 28:44

9M ago28:44

28:44

Send us a text Join us for a discussion about doe and kid survival metrics based on different sedation and anesthesia protocols with Dr. George Elane, Assistant Professor of Equine Soft Tissue Surgery at Texas A&M University's College of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, Dr. Elane discusses the decision-making process for choosing between sedat…

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From Lab Coat to Cheesecloth: Dr. Kandice Marchant's Delicious Second Act 29:41

9M ago29:41

29:41

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/from-lab-coat-to-cheesecloth/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! What happens when a medical career ends—but a passion for something totally different begins? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kandice Marchant, a retired physician who traded her lab coat for a cheeseclot…

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LWP Mini S4 Ep 11 -Livestock Updates: What's Happening This Month 5:17

10M ago5:17

5:17

We share exciting updates from Hawaii and Nebraska in this quick mini-episode covering upcoming workshops, tax information, and educational opportunities for livestock stakeholders. • April 12: Calving Management and Grazing Management Field Workshop at Mealani Research Station in Kamuela, Big Island • All-day hands-on outdoor field workshop with n…

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Understanding Goat Polio: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments 26:34

10M ago26:34

26:34

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/goat-polio/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description Goat polio is a serious and often misunderstood condition—frequently mistaken for other neurological diseases like listeriosis, meningeal worm, or even rabies. In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Meliss…

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Raising Goats in Canada 39:57

10M ago39:57

39:57

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/raising-goats-in-canada/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this episode, host Deborah Niemann is joined by Mallory Kaiser, president of the Alberta Goat Association and vice chair of the Canadian National Goat Federation. Mallory shares insights into the goat…

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Dewormer Resistance: A Goat Owner’s Experience 31:22

10M ago31:22

31:22

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/dewormer-resistance-goat-owners-experience/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this insightful and eye-opening episode, host Deborah Niemann is joined by Tammy Gallagher of Shady Paddock Farm in Texas to discuss the challenges of dewormer resistance and parasi…

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S4 Ep11: From Pasture to Plate: Understanding Meat Quality Factors 36:25

10M ago36:25

36:25

Dr. Lyda Garcia, Associate Professor and Extension Meat Specialist with The Ohio State University, shares her expertise on the science behind meat quality and how proper livestock management impacts the final product consumers enjoy. Quality means different things to different people - from marbling content and color to freshness and safety - but u…

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An American's Experience with Goats in Kenya 17:26

10M ago17:26

17:26

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/americans-experience-with-goats-in-kenya/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this fascinating episode, Deborah Niemann sits down with Mark Hicks, an author and adventurer, to discuss his unforgettable experience with goats during a trip to Kenya. Mark’s journe…

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LWP Mini S4 Ep 10 - Upcoming Workshops & Updates 5:27

10M ago5:27

5:27

Dive into this episode of Livestock Wala'au, where we uncover exciting updates, workshops, and insights to support your livestock management practices. Our hosts, Mele Oshiro and Shannon Sand, will be discussing upcoming workshops focused on beef cattle management, ranging from on-farm food animal processing to grazing management strategies. Shanno…

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Euthanasia and aftercare options for livestock with Dr. Warren Hess 33:08

11M ago33:08

33:08

Send us a text Join us for a discussion about options for euthanasia techniques and aftercare in small ruminants and other livestock species with Dr. Warren Hess, the assistant director of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)'s Division of Animal and Public Health and AVMA's Disaster Coordinator. In this episode, Dr. Hess discusses th…

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Scrapie Updates in Goats and Sheep for 2025 41:04

11M ago41:04

41:04

As goat owners, understanding diseases that can affect our herds is crucial for maintaining healthy animals and preventing the spread of illnesses. In this episode, Deborah Niemann is joined by Dr. Linda Detwiler, staff veterinarian on the sheep and goat health staff at the USDA APHIS Veterinary Service, to discuss scrapie, a neurological disease a…

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Hermaphroditism, Freemartinism, and Goat Infertility: Exploring Non-Infectious Causes 40:48

11M ago40:48

40:48

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/hermaphroditism-freemartinism-goat-infertility/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description When our does have trouble conceiving, our minds often tend to go toward infectious causes. But there are non-infectious causes of infertility to consider as well. In this episode,…

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Our First C-section: Caboose’s Story 32:18

11M ago32:18

32:18

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/c-section-in-goats/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this episode, host Deborah Niemann shares the emotional and educational story of Caboose, the first goat on her farm to undergo a C-section. As part of the podcast’s fifth-anniversary celebration, Deborah …

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Sharing Milk with Baby Goats 42:50

11M ago42:50

42:50

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/sharing-milk-with-baby-goats/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description The answer to, “When can I start milking my doe?” is not as simple as listing the specific age of the kids. In this episode, we are discussing the complexities of sharing milk with baby goats and of…

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For the Love of Goats Turns 5: A Look Ahead with Deborah Niemann 1:16

11M ago1:16

1:16

Happy anniversary to us! FTLOG is five years old! As we enter our sixth year, you can continue to count on us to help you cut through the clutter of conflicting information out there so that you can be confident that your goats will be living their best lives! You can expect to hear from more goat experts like veterinary professors and published sc…

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Uterine Rupture and Hemorrhage: Coco’s Story 30:34

11M ago30:34

30:34

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/uterine-rupture-and-hemorrhage-in-goats/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description In this deeply personal and emotional episode, host Deborah Niemann shares the heartbreaking story of her goat, Coco, who experienced a uterine rupture and hemorrhage during a challenging…

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S4 Ep 10 : Meet Yunuen Bustamante: Oahu's New Livestock Extension Agent 26:37

11M ago26:37

26:37

Yunuen Bustamante is Oahu's newest extension agent, bringing a fresh perspective to Hawaii's livestock industry. Originally from Puebla, Mexico, her journey blends traditional wisdom with modern agricultural science. With a bachelor's in agronomy and a master's in agroforestry, in addition to her practical experience working as a veterinary technic…

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Blood Glucose Monitoring With Dr. Munashe Chigerwe 32:41

11M ago32:41

32:41

Send us a text Join us for a discussion about continuous blood glucose monitoring and its use in evaluating pregnancy toxemia with Dr. Munashe Chigerwe. Dr. Chigerwe is a Professor of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of California at Davis's College of Veterinary Medicine. In this episode, Dr. Chigerwe discusses the efficacy of using con…

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Raising Goats in Australia 34:01

12M ago34:01

34:01

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/raising-goats-in-australia/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description As goat owners in America, we know the challenges we face in caring for our herds here at home. But what is it like to breed and raise goats in another country? In this episode, Sue Ludwig and Jade Ho…

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GAP Certification: A Barrier & an Opportunity 36:37

12M ago36:37

36:37

Hey everyone! This is Jordan with some bonus listening for you. As you may know, I’m the producer and host of The Organic BC Podcast, and over there, I’ve been busy producing a miniseries about whether GAP certification is a viable option for small-scale farmers who want to gain, preserve, or expand access to wholesale marketing channels. You’re ab…

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Blood Transfusion in Goats 26:30

12M ago26:30

26:30

Got a question? 🤔 Head over to https://thriftyhomesteader.com/blood-transfusion-in-goats/ -- and drop it in the comments—so we can reply! Description There have been instances where a goat owner watched a severely parasitized, anemic goat die because they did not realize that a life-saving blood transfusion was an option for their animal. Surprisin…