The California Bander is a highly recommended and versatile method for wethering (castrating) male goats. It is a simple and easy-to-use tool that you can operate on your own without requiring a vet’s help. It’s best to perform the procedure when your goat is between 4-6 months of age, as this allows the urethra to fully develop and reduces the risk of Urinary Calculi. The California Bander is ideal for use at this stage because it’s effective regardless of the size of the testicles.

The band constricts the blood flow to the testicles, causing them to die off naturally. After about two weeks, the testicles will become hard and dry, and you can remove them with a hoof trimmer. Remember to administer a fresh CD and T vaccination to your goat a day or so before the procedure.

To alleviate any pain and inflammation after the procedure, you can administer Banamine, which also helps to reduce fever. The dosage depends on your goat’s weight, and you can either pour it down their back or inject it.

It’s important to note that your goat’s temperament and environment may influence your decision on which method to use. The California Bander is sold separately from the bands, which you’ll need to purchase separately. Before using the tool, we recommend practicing a few times using a rolled-up towel to simulate a scrotal sack. Watch our tutorial video to get a better understanding of the process.

To ensure your goat’s safety during the procedure, we suggest using our horned goat stanchion. This tool is also useful for trimming hooves, milking, and other health needs. The bands are pre-assembled and easy to use.

Here’s how to use the California Bander:

1. Slip your left hand into the tool, and with your right hand, place the clip of the band into the tool’s slot.

2. Hold the free end of the band between the first and second fingers of your left hand to keep the clip steady while you stretch the band.

3. Grasp the scrotal sac and hold the tool firmly against it. With your right hand, reach around the scrotal sac and grab the free end of the rubber tubing.

4. Stretch the band downward and away from yourself with about 14 to 17 lbs of pull or until there is no more free stretch.

5. Pull the stretched band around the scrotal sac.

6. Lock the band into the clip by pulling the stretched band down the center slot all the way to the bottom. When the clip is down, pull the band to the right corner of the “T” slot on the clip to lock it.

7. Be sure to keep the band fully stretched as you pull it around since you can’t tighten it once it is locked in the clip. Release the clip from the tool by slightly tipping it backward. This will leave the band with the clip attached to the scrotal sac. The rubber tube does not need to come off.

8. If you can fit your finger in between the band and the scrotal sac, the band is not tight enough.