About the Author

Karen Kopf

Karen Kopf and her husband Dale own Kopf Canyon Ranch in Troy, Idaho. They enjoy "goating" together and helping others goat. They raise Kikos primarily, but are experimenting with crosses for their new favorite goating experience: pack goats! You can learn more about them at Kopf Canyon Ranch on Facebook or kikogoats.org

Johne’s, CAE, and CL Testing for Goats: Serology 101

June 28, 2021 · Karen Kopf · Health

The “why” of blood testing is easy. CAE and CL testing for goats allows us to control diseases. The “what” is a question unanswered for many: What do serology tests do? What don’t they do? What should we do with the results?

The Heritability of Udder Traits

June 21, 2021 · Karen Kopf · Health

Many udder traits are hereditary. Ideally, selection occurs when choosing a buck and doe for breeding. Neither should have undesirable traits.

Bucks with Udders!

June 14, 2021 · Karen Kopf · Health

Yes, you read that right! Bucks can have udders. Some even produce milk! While it may seem unsettling, it isn’t new or even rare.

All About Goat Testicles

June 11, 2021 · Karen Kopf · Health

Testicles make a buck a buck. The testicles produce testosterone and sperm, and the correct testicle anatomy comprises two equal-sized testicles in a single scrotum.

New Valais Goat Breeds Recognized

April 2, 2021 · Karen Kopf · Goat Breeds

As a result of Pro Specie Rara, a Swiss conservation group, three breeds of goats will be added to the official list of recognized Swiss goats published in 2021. The three breeds aren’t new — but quite old.

What Guards Livestock Guardian Dogs?

February 18, 2021 · Karen Kopf · Ownership

Livestock Guardian Dogs, or LGDs, protect our goats … but what protects our LGDs? For many ranches, the biggest threat to guardians is the law.

Chlamydia in Goats and Other STDs to Watch For

October 3, 2020 · Karen Kopf · Health

When we think of breeding, we think of babies — not biosecurity — but diseases such as chlamydia in goats can be transmitted sexually.

Geissebei Trekkinggeissen

July 26, 2020 · Karen Kopf · Ownership

While goats are part of the Swiss cultural heritage, for decades they were called “the poor man’s cow.” Not as prevalent as cows, they are gaining popularity with the increasing demand for goat cheese and goat products.

The Dilemma of Euthanasia For Goats

June 4, 2020 · Karen Kopf · Health

Most of us would rather not think it, but all life ends in death. When death does not come easily or naturally, and a goat suffers, we can better care for them in their time of greatest need if we are prepared.

Goat Horns and Hierarchy

March 4, 2020 · Karen Kopf · Health, Members Only

Most goats, have horns naturally. They are used as tools to scratch, dig, forage, fight, and defend. Horns also dissipate body heat since the blood supply is very close to the surface.

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