Wethers

Why Wethers
Wethers (castrated males) make awesome pet goats. Bucks (not castrated) have some issues that make them ideal only if you wish to breed them. Wethers can be readily found as they cannot be used for breeding or for dairy homes. As a result, they also tend to be less expensive even if they are registered, making them attractive for those who just want to enjoy having goats but also want to stick to a budget. 

Sadly, the castrating process on these miniature goats can cause some serious health issues, including urinary calculi.  We lost Pablo as a result. There is a lot of information on the internet regarding this issue, and one of the problems with miniature goats like Nigerians is that their anatomy makes them more prone to this deadly problem. Almost always poor feeding habits play a role (not enough water, too much grain) but in Pablo's case (plenty of water including warm water in the winter, tiny bits of grain only) it was a case of basic anatomy. We were able to save him once because the stone was right at the end where we could find it and snip it (ouch, but then relief!), but with the second bout nothing worked. 'One of the saddest days of my life.

That being said, wethers make great pets! Just be sure to get them from reputable breeders who will make sure that the castration process is done correctly.
When My Babies Were Babies
Absolutely nothing is cuter than a baby goat!
~ Vincent VanGogh ~
Salvador
We consider Sal to be a "LabraGoat" because he is very doglike. Most of my photos of him are extreme closeups because he is a camera hog! 

Sal is truly a sweetheart. He loooves face scratches, and he loves to put his nose into whatever we might be doing around the barn and pen. Sally's ears are enormous, and he is a big stocky boy all around. Sal came to us from Weberwood Acres in 2008 along with Jasper, and we are blessed to have him. Everybody loves Sal!
~ Salvador Dali ~
Jasper
Jasper is my most timid, and as a result he isn't in as many photos. I will have to work on that! He, along with Sal, came from Weberwood Acres in 2008. 

Jasper is smaller boned than Sal, and his features are finer. He has a tiny narrow nose with the cutest little overbite, and he has the longest beard of any of my herd. Easily the most agile and energetic of the bunch, he reminds me of a graceful deer, especially when he leaps and jumps around the pen. The term "easy keeper" describes him perfectly. He is a doll and so easy to be around until it's time to trim his hooves :) 
~ Jasper Johns ~
Wilbur
Wilbur is our newest guy, and he has quickly adjusted to life on our farm. He came from the same family as Elly did, so he is also super social.

Wilbur is LARGE and handsome, with beautiful blue eyes. He follows me around like a puppy, waiting to be scratched and petted. He is the first to come to the fence for attention - even the neighbors love him!