Sheep and Goat Production

Sheep and Goat Production

Discussing current topics in Ontario sheep and goat production

All posts by emassender

Goat Nutrition Webinar Series – November 2021

Posted on Author emassenderPosted in Nutrition

Feed costs are a large contributor to the cost of production on goat farms. Understanding nutritional requirements and feed management can increase the efficiency and productivity of the herd. This free webinar series is designed to introduce the basics of nutrition for both meat and dairy goats. Topics covered will include: the goat digestion system, nutrient requirements, systems for the delivery of feed, body condition scoring, and the importance of feed testing. The webinar series will be presented over two sessions and will be hosted on Zoom. An audio-only call-in option will be available. Session 1: Managing Herd Nutrition Tuesday November 30th, 2021 10:30am – 12:00pm Speakers: Marlene Paibomesai, OMAFRA; Dr. Paul Luimes, University of Guelph • Principles of goat…

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Goat Genetic Improvement Webinar Series – Key Messages

Posted on Author emassenderPosted in Genetics

In July, OMAFRA hosted a series of webinars on topics related to goat genetic improvement. The webinars were held on July 20th, 22nd, 27th and 29th, with speakers presenting on aspects of genetics and genetic improvement programs for both meat and dairy goats. This post summarizes some of the key take-home messages from the presentations. If you’re interested in learning more, full video and podcast recordings of the presentations are available below. Click the links below to go directly to the presentation you’re interested in learning more about. Not sure where to start? Check out the Overview of Presentations to hear the key messages from all of our presenters. Overview of Presentations Keep or Cull: Strategies for Replacement and Culling…

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Pregnancy Scanning: Management Tips

Posted on Author emassenderPosted in Reproduction, Reproduction

This blog post was adapted from the OMAFRA Factsheet “Pregnancy Scanning: Management Tips” (AGDEX 433/22) by A. O’Brien. Introduction Pregnancy scanning, using real-time ultrasound equipment, is a useful management tool for Ontario sheep and goat producers. When scanning is performed within the recommended time frame by trained professionals, accuracy of identifying animals that are not pregnant and counting the number of fetuses is high. Pregnancy scanning can be used to assign open ewes to new breeding groups, make culling decisions, and optimize feeding management based on expected litter size. Benefits of Ultrasound Scanning Identify and manage open (not pregnant) ewes or does. Count fetuses to improve feeding management. Improve newborn survival through appropriate feeding management. Determine appropriate dry-off time in…

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Make Better Use of Your Feed; Sampling is What You Need! Part 1: Taking a Proper Feed Sample

Posted on Author emassenderPosted in Forage, Health, Health & Nutrition, Nutrition

Learn about proper procedures for collecting feed samples.

Goat Genetic Improvement Webinar Series – July 2021

Posted on Author emassenderPosted in Genetics

Calling all Goat Producers! Genetic improvement is a major contributor to the success and profitability of both dairy and meat goat herds! Genetic selection allows you to increase productivity and improve animal health in your herd by selecting for specific traits. If you are interested in learning more about genetic selection and improvement, then this webinar series is for you! Join the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) for an informational webinar series focused on goat genetic improvement strategies, programs and approaches. Listen to guest speakers from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement, Canadian Goat Society, and discuss strategies for record keeping and genetic selection with fellow producers. Content presented will be applicable…

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