Vaccination

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are critical; they prevent disease. A baby is really susceptible to disease after birth. The most important vaccination is the CD&T vaccination, a vaccine for enterotoxemia and tetanus. Enterotoxemia is caused by two types of bacteria called clostridium perfringens, type C and type D. The bacteria is naturally found in goats in small amounts; however, sugars and starches in a goat’s diet can cause them to grow exponentially in harmful amounts. Tetanus is a bacteria that can cause infections in wounds and is more prevalent in certain areas than others but all goats must be protected.

CD&T can be passed on from the doe to the baby through the colostrum of the milk. So it is absolutely crucial for the does to be vaccinated a month (30 days) before birth, so that the baby comes out strong and immune. If you are buying from a breeder make sure you ask if the doe has been vaccinated a month before giving birth.

Once the baby is born, we recommend giving a Bo-Se booster at 7 days of age. You should give the baby its first CDT vaccination at 30 days of age.

Another common vaccination is for rabies. The vet has to administer this vaccination; depending on where you live you may want to vaccinate for rabies. Be sure to consult with your vet about this.[video_embed url=”https://youtu.be/q5fZkR7biuM”]

Vaccination Supplies:

• CDT vaccination
• 18 gauge, 1 inch needles
• 20 ml syringe

How to Administer a Shot:

[video_embed url=”https://youtu.be/ePCm5C7IqEc”]

Vaccination Timeline and Schedule for CD&T:

• 30 days
• 60 days
• 90 days
• 1 year
• Once a year

*I usually do it in the fall right before going into the winter months.