The Steps of Goat Aggression

[Erikthviking]

Quick note on my last post: that short piece of rubber hose was an excellent thing to accidentally have in my hand at that moment! It was sturdy enough to be physically unpleasant to the goat but I could not actually injure him with it. Usually when I have to deal with an aggressive goat I carry a 2-foot long riding crop -- the kind with a wide leather popper on the end. In addition to delivering a sharp but harmless sting, it makes a terrific smacking noise that makes the goat think he's been hit a lot harder than he actually has. I can make my point as hard as necessary without worrying that I could get carried away by fear or anger and accidentally injure the goat. In general I've found that the riding crop is a lot more effective than a spray bottle and it's easier to carry and to conceal.

Will look into the riding crop. Went in to feed tonight and the only available escalation past the water bottle (which was utterly useless) was a 2 x 4. I did have to butt heads with him and it had the affect of getting him to turn and run. I don't like the 2 x 4 because of the risk of injury, but that may be the level we are at right now in our conversation (mine and the goats). I want the tools to escalate as far as needed, but also ones that get the point across before hand. Thank you so much for your insight. It is helping me to become a better goat owner.