# Goat Barn Quarantine Area: Design and Management ## Key Takeaways - A minimum 30-day quarantine, ideally 60 days, is critical for incoming goats to mitigate disease introduction, as pathogens like *Mycoplasma* and *Mannheimia* can spread via aerosols over several feet, and subclinical infections may not manifest for weeks or months. - Physical separation of at least 50 feet, or a solid barrier with separate airspace, is essential, coupled with dedicated footwear, coveralls, and equipment (feeders, waterers, tools) for the quarantine area to prevent indirect transmission of pathogens like *Clostridium perfringens* or *E. coli*. - Daily observation for clinical signs such as fever (temperature >104°F), coughing, nasal discharge, diarrhea, lethargy, and reduced appetite is paramount, with immediate veterinary consultation advised for any severe symptoms to enable timely diagnosis and treatment, potentially involving antibiotic therapy for bacterial pneumonia. - Diagnostic testing, including fecal flotation for internal parasites (e.g., *Haemonchus contortus*, coccidia) to guide targeted deworming and blood testing for chronic diseases like Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE) and Caseous Lymphadenitis (CL), is crucial as visual inspection alone cannot detect subclinical infections. - Strict biosecurity protocols, including a disinfectant footbath at the entrance, handwashing, and working with quarantined animals last, are vital to prevent fomite-mediated disease spread, as pathogens can survive on surfaces for extended periods. --- Bringing new goats onto your property is one of the most exciting moments in farming, but it also carries one of the highest disease risks you will face. A properly designed and managed goat barn quarantine area protects your existing herd from costly and sometimes fatal illnesses. This guide covers the complete process of planning, building, and managing a goat quarantine pen, from layout decisions to daily protocols. It is written for small and mid-size goat keepers, homesteaders, and commercial producers who need practical, actionable steps for isolating incoming animals. ## At a Glance - Quarantine every new goat for a minimum of 30 days, and ideally 60 days, before introducing it to your main herd. - Place the goat barn quarantine area at least 50 feet away from your main [goat housing](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/goat-housing-design-shelter-space-ventilation), with separate airspace and no shared equipment. - Use a dedicated set of boots, coveralls, and tools for the quarantine pen to prevent indirect disease spread. - Work with quarantined goats last each day, after you finish chores with your healthy herd. - Test incoming goats for common diseases before they arrive, when possible, and retest during quarantine. - Observe quarantined goats daily for signs of illness including coughing, nasal discharge, diarrhea, fever, and reduced appetite. - Keep detailed records of every goat that passes through quarantine, including source farm, health status, and test results. - Have a veterinarian examine new goats within the first week of arrival and again before release from quarantine. ## Why Quarantine Matters for Goat Health Goat herds face serious disease risks from incoming animals. Respiratory infections like pneumonia, digestive issues like coccidiosis, and chronic diseases such as caseous lymphadenitis (CL) and caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE) can enter your farm through a single carrier animal. Some diseases show no visible signs for weeks or months, meaning a goat can look perfectly healthy while shedding pathogens into your barn. The goat barn quarantine area exists to create a physical and procedural barrier between new animals and your established herd. This barrier gives you time to observe the new goat, run diagnostic tests, and treat any conditions before allowing contact. It also protects your herd from diseases that can be transmitted indirectly through contaminated feed, water, and equipment. Quarantine is not optional for responsible goat management. Even goats from trusted sources can carry subclinical infections. Stress from transport and a new environment can also trigger disease outbreaks in animals that were previously healthy. The quarantine period lets your new goat adjust to your feeding program and environment while you monitor its health closely. ## Designing the Goat Barn Quarantine Area ### Location and Distance The first decision in designing a goat quarantine pen is where to place it. The ideal location is a separate building entirely, but most small farms do not have that luxury. A dedicated section of your barn with a solid wall between it and the main goat housing works well. If you must use a pen within the same barn, choose the end farthest from your main herd and create a solid partition. Distance matters because many goat pathogens spread through aerosol droplets. Respiratory diseases like Mycoplasma and Mannheimia can travel several feet through the air. A minimum separation of 50 feet is a practical target for most farms. If you cannot achieve this distance, focus on creating a solid barrier that blocks airflow between the quarantine area and the rest of the barn. The goat barn quarantine area should also be downhill and downwind from your main herd when possible. This reduces the chance of contaminated water runoff or airborne particles reaching healthy animals. Check your property drainage patterns and prevailing wind direction before finalizing the location. ### Fencing and Containment Quarantine pens need secure fencing that prevents nose-to-nose contact between quarantined and resident goats. Solid panel fencing works better than wire mesh because it blocks visual contact and reduces stress on both groups. Goats are social animals, and seeing other goats they cannot reach can cause agitation and attempts to escape. The fencing should be at least 4 feet high for standard [goat breeds](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/equine-and-farm/goat-breeds-a-comparative-overview-for-selection) and 5 feet for larger breeds or jumpers. Use sturdy materials that can withstand pushing and climbing. Welded wire panels or livestock panels attached to metal posts provide reliable containment. Avoid electric fencing as the sole barrier for quarantine, since a power failure could allow escape. Build the goat quarantine pen with a solid floor or a well-drained base. Concrete floors are easiest to clean and disinfect. If you use dirt or gravel, plan to remove and replace the top layer between quarantine cycles. The pen should have a slight slope for drainage so urine and wash water do not pool. ### Shelter and Comfort Quarantined goats need protection from weather just like your main herd. Provide a three-sided shelter or a covered section within the pen that blocks wind, rain, and snow. The shelter should be large enough for all quarantined goats to lie down comfortably at the same time, roughly 15 to 20 square feet per adult goat. Bedding in the quarantine pen should be deep and clean. Straw or wood shavings work well. Change bedding completely between quarantine groups and spot-clean daily. Keep the bedding dry to prevent respiratory issues and foot problems. Quarantined goats should never be forced to lie on wet or soiled bedding. ### Separate Feed and Water Every goat in quarantine needs its own feed and water containers. Do not share buckets, troughs, or hay racks between the quarantine area and the main herd. Many pathogens survive on surfaces for extended periods, and a shared bucket can transmit disease even if the animals never touch each other. Use containers that are easy to clean and disinfect. Plastic or galvanized steel buckets work well. Label all quarantine equipment clearly so no one accidentally moves it to the main barn. Keep a dedicated set of feed storage containers in or near the quarantine area so you do not carry feed back and forth. ### Ventilation Good airflow is critical in a goat barn quarantine area. Stagnant air concentrates pathogens and ammonia from urine, which damages the respiratory tract and makes goats more susceptible to pneumonia. Design the quarantine pen with cross ventilation, using windows, vents, or open sides that allow fresh air to move through while still protecting goats from drafts. The ventilation system should exhaust air away from the main herd. If you are in a shared barn, direct airflow from the healthy animals toward the quarantine area, not the reverse. This prevents pathogens from traveling on air currents to your established goats. ## Setting Up the Quarantine Pen ### Footbath and Entry Protocol Place a footbath at the entrance to your goat barn quarantine area. The footbath should be wide enough that you cannot step over it and deep enough to cover the soles of your boots completely. Fill it with a disinfectant solution recommended by your veterinarian for the diseases you are most concerned about. Change the disinfectant daily or whenever it becomes visibly dirty. Keep dedicated boots and coveralls at the quarantine area. These should never be worn into the main barn. Ideally, leave them in a sealed container or on a hook inside the quarantine entrance. Put them on before entering and remove them before leaving. Wash your hands thoroughly after working with quarantined animals. ### Dedicated Equipment Stock the goat barn quarantine area with its own set of essential equipment. This includes: - Feed and water buckets - Hay racks or feeders - Grooming brushes and combs - Hoof trimmers - Thermometer and stethoscope - Syringes and needles for treatments - Drenching equipment - Fecal sample collection supplies - Cleaning tools including shovels, pitchforks, and brushes Label everything clearly with the word QUARANTINE. Store tools in a closed container or cabinet within the quarantine area. Never use quarantine equipment on your main herd, even after cleaning. ### Disinfection Supplies Keep a supply of appropriate disinfectants on hand. Many disinfectants lose effectiveness in the presence of organic matter, so cleaning surfaces before disinfection is essential. Common options include diluted bleach, accelerated hydrogen peroxide products, and commercial livestock disinfectants. Ask your veterinarian which products are effective against the diseases of greatest concern in your area. Have a sprayer or pump-up applicator for applying disinfectant to surfaces. Keep paper towels or clean rags for wiping down equipment. A stiff brush helps remove organic material before disinfection. ## Managing New Goats During Quarantine ### Arrival Day Protocol When a new goat arrives, move it directly from the transport vehicle to the quarantine pen. Do not allow it to walk through areas where your main herd lives or grazes. If possible, have one person handle the new goat while another person keeps the resident herd secured. Give the new goat fresh water immediately and offer high-quality hay. Do not change its feed suddenly. Ask the seller what feed the goat was eating and try to match it for the first several days. Gradually transition to your own feed over 7 to 10 days to reduce digestive upset. Observe the goat for several hours after arrival. Look for signs of transport stress including rapid breathing, lethargy, and refusal to eat or drink. A brief period of reduced appetite is normal, but the goat should be eating and drinking within 12 hours. ### Physical Examination Perform a thorough physical examination on every new goat within 24 hours of arrival. This examination should include: - Taking the goat's temperature. Normal goat temperature ranges from 101.5 to 103.5 degrees Fahrenheit. - Checking the eyes for discharge, redness, or cloudiness. - Examining the nose for discharge or crusting. - Listening to the lungs with a stethoscope for abnormal sounds. - Checking the mouth for sores, lesions, or abnormal odor. - Inspecting the skin and coat for external parasites, lumps, or hair loss. - Examining the feet for signs of foot rot, overgrowth, or injury. - Checking the udder or testicles for swelling or discharge. - Observing the goat's posture and gait for signs of lameness or pain. Write down all findings in your quarantine record. Take photos of any abnormalities for reference and to share with your veterinarian. ### Fecal Testing Collect a fecal sample from each new goat within the first few days of quarantine. Take the sample to your veterinarian for a fecal float test to check for internal parasites including barber pole worm, coccidia, and tapeworms. This test gives you a baseline for deworming decisions. Do not deworm automatically. Many goats carry low levels of parasites without showing signs, and blanket deworming contributes to drug resistance. The American Consortium for [Small Ruminant Parasite Control](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/food-animal-medicine/small-ruminant-parasite-control-diagnostic-strategies-anthelmintic-stewardship) recommends using fecal egg counts to guide treatment decisions. Work with your veterinarian to interpret the results and decide whether treatment is needed. ### Blood Testing Work with your veterinarian to develop a blood testing protocol for incoming goats. Common tests for goats include: - CAE (caprine arthritis encephalitis) testing - CL (caseous lymphadenitis) testing - Johne's disease testing - Brucellosis testing where required Some of these diseases are chronic and incurable. Testing before purchase is ideal, but testing during quarantine gives you the information you need to decide whether to keep the goat. If a goat tests positive for a serious chronic disease, you may need to return it to the seller, isolate it permanently, or cull it. Discuss your options with your veterinarian. ### Vaccination and Deworming Consult your veterinarian about a vaccination schedule for new goats. Common vaccines include CDT (clostridial diseases and tetanus) and rabies where required. Start the vaccination series during quarantine so the goat has some protection before joining the main herd. Only deworm goats that test positive for significant parasite loads or show signs of parasitism. Use the correct product for the parasites identified and dose by weight. Weigh the goat or use a weight tape rather than guessing. Record the product, dose, and date in your quarantine log. ## Daily Care and Monitoring ### Daily Observations Check quarantined goats at least twice daily, morning and evening. Spend time watching them without handling to observe normal behavior. Note their appetite, water intake, manure production, and activity level. A goat that is off feed, lethargic, or isolating itself from pen mates may be developing an illness. Take the goat's temperature if you notice any signs of illness. Fever is often the first sign of infection. Keep a thermometer in the quarantine area and know how to use it properly. Lubricate the thermometer and insert it gently into the rectum, holding it in place for 30 to 60 seconds or until it beeps. ### Nutrition During Quarantine Feed quarantined goats a high-quality diet that supports their immune system. Provide good hay, appropriate grain for their age and production stage, and fresh water at all times. Add electrolytes to the water for the first few days after arrival if the goat is stressed or dehydrated. Monitor body condition during quarantine. Goats that lose weight may be experiencing stress or illness. Goats that gain excessive weight may be eating more than needed. Adjust feed amounts to maintain ideal body condition, which is a body condition score of 2.5 to 3.5 on a 5 point scale for most goats. ### Socialization Considerations Goats are herd animals and isolation can be stressful. Place quarantined goats where they can see and hear the main herd, even if they cannot touch. This helps them adjust to their new environment and reduces the stress of isolation. Some farms keep a calm companion animal like a wether or a bottle-fed kid in the quarantine area to provide company for single new goats. Do not allow physical contact between quarantined and resident goats. Nose-to-nose contact through fencing can transmit many diseases. Use solid barriers or double fencing with a gap between the quarantine pen and any adjacent goat housing. ## Common Mistakes in Goat Quarantine Management ### Shortening the Quarantine Period The most common mistake is cutting the quarantine period short. Many diseases have incubation periods longer than 30 days. Johne's disease can take years to show signs. CAE may not cause visible symptoms for months or years. A 30 day quarantine is the absolute minimum, and 60 days is better for catching most diseases. Farmers often shorten quarantine because they need the space, the new goat seems healthy, or the seller assures them the animal is disease free. Resist these pressures. A disease outbreak in your main herd will cost far more than the inconvenience of a longer quarantine. ### Skipping Diagnostic Testing Visual observation alone cannot detect all goat diseases. Many serious conditions are subclinical, meaning the animal shows no signs. Blood testing and fecal testing are essential parts of the quarantine process. Skipping tests to save money is a false economy if it allows a chronic disease to enter your herd. Work with your veterinarian to design a testing protocol that fits your budget and risk level. Prioritize tests for diseases that are common in your area or that would be devastating to your operation. At minimum, run a fecal float test for parasites on every incoming goat. ### Sharing Equipment Using the same buckets, tools, or boots between quarantine and main herd areas defeats the purpose of quarantine. Pathogens can survive on surfaces and transmit disease indirectly. Even tools that look clean can harbor microscopic organisms. Make it easy for everyone on your farm to follow the quarantine protocol. Keep dedicated equipment clearly labeled and stored in the quarantine area. Use a color coding system, such as red for quarantine and green for main herd. Post a written protocol at the quarantine entrance. ### Poor Recordkeeping Without records, you cannot track the health history of your goats or identify patterns over time. A goat that was treated for pneumonia during quarantine needs that information recorded for future reference. Test results should be filed where you can find them years later. Use a simple notebook, a spreadsheet, or a farm management app to track quarantine information. Record the source farm, arrival date, test results, treatments, and daily observations. Take photos of each goat for identification. ### Allowing Visitors into the Quarantine Area Visitors, including neighbors, feed dealers, and even your veterinarian, can carry pathogens on their boots and clothing. Limit access to the goat barn quarantine area to essential personnel only. Require anyone entering to use the footbath and wear dedicated boots and coveralls. If you sell goats or have frequent farm visitors, post a sign at the quarantine area entrance stating that entry is restricted. Make the quarantine protocol part of your farm's overall biosecurity plan. ## Decision Thresholds During Quarantine ### When to Treat Some conditions found during quarantine can be treated successfully. These include internal parasites, external parasites, minor wounds, and mild respiratory infections. Work with your veterinarian to develop a treatment plan and follow it completely. A goat that improves but is not fully cured can still spread disease. Monitor treated goats closely. If a goat does not respond to treatment within the expected timeframe, reassess the diagnosis. Some diseases, including certain strains of pneumonia, require aggressive antibiotic therapy and supportive care. ### When to Extend Quarantine Extend the quarantine period if any goat shows signs of illness during the final days of the planned quarantine. Wait until the goat has fully recovered and completed any required treatment before releasing it. For some diseases, you may need to restart the quarantine clock entirely. Extend quarantine if you have not completed all planned testing. A goat should not join the main herd until all test results are back and reviewed. If a test result is ambiguous, repeat the test or ask your veterinarian for guidance. ### When to Remove a Goat from Quarantine A goat that tests positive for a serious chronic disease may need to be removed from your farm entirely. Diseases like CAE, CL, and Johne's disease have no cure. Keeping a positive goat on your property, even in permanent isolation, creates a risk of accidental spread. Talk to your veterinarian about your options. Some farms choose to return the goat to the seller. Others send the goat to slaughter or euthanize it. In some cases, you may choose to keep a positive goat permanently isolated, but this requires strict biosecurity for the life of the animal. ### When to Call Your Veterinarian Call your veterinarian immediately if a quarantined goat shows any of these signs: - Temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit - Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing - Severe diarrhea or blood in the stool - Refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours - Lethargy or inability to stand - Abdominal swelling or signs of pain - Discharge from the eyes, nose, or reproductive tract - Neurological signs including circling, head tilt, or seizures Do not wait to see if the goat improves on its own. Many goat diseases progress rapidly, and early treatment gives the best chance of recovery. Your veterinarian can also help you determine whether the illness poses a risk to your main herd. ## Biosecurity Beyond the Quarantine Pen ### Overall Farm Biosecurity The goat barn quarantine area is one component of a complete farm biosecurity plan. Other important measures include: - Controlling farm access and requiring visitors to sign in - Keeping a clean pair of boots for each barn area - Disinfecting equipment between groups of animals - Managing manure to prevent runoff into goat housing - Controlling wildlife and rodents that can transmit disease - Maintaining healthy nutrition and low stress for your main herd A quarantine area cannot protect your herd if other biosecurity measures are ignored. Review your entire operation for disease risks and address them systematically. ### Sourcing Goats Wisely The best way to avoid disease is to source goats from herds with good health programs. Ask sellers about their testing history, vaccination protocols, and any disease issues in their herd. Request health records and test results before purchase. Visit the farm in person when possible to observe the conditions and the health of the herd. Be cautious about [buying goats](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/buying-goats-source-questions-health-records-and-arrival-planning) at auction or from dealers who cannot provide health history. These goats may come from multiple sources and have unknown disease exposure. If you do buy from an auction, quarantine these goats more strictly and test them more thoroughly. ### Permanent Isolation Some goats may need permanent isolation rather than a temporary quarantine. This includes goats that test positive for chronic diseases but are valuable enough to keep, or goats with conditions that require ongoing treatment. A permanent isolation pen should follow the same design principles as a quarantine pen, with dedicated equipment and strict biosecurity. Discuss permanent isolation with your veterinarian before deciding to keep a positive goat. Make sure you understand the risks and are prepared to maintain the isolation protocol for the life of the animal. ## Monitoring and Recordkeeping ### Quarantine Log Keep a written log for every goat that passes through your quarantine area. This log should include: - Goat identification (tag number, name, photo) - Source farm and seller contact information - Arrival date and planned release date - Transport and handling notes - Physical examination findings - Test results and dates - Treatments administered - Daily health observations - Feed and water intake notes - Final assessment and release date Store these records where you can access them easily. You may need to reference them if a health issue arises later or if you sell the goat to another farm. ### Health Certificates Many states require a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), also called a health certificate, for goats crossing state lines. This document is issued by an accredited veterinarian after examining the animal. It certifies that the goat shows no signs of infectious disease and meets your state's import requirements. Check with your state department of agriculture about specific requirements for importing goats. Some states require additional testing for diseases like CAE or brucellosis. Your veterinarian can help you navigate these requirements and complete the necessary paperwork. ### Tracking Disease Trends Review your quarantine records periodically to identify patterns. If goats from a particular source consistently test positive for parasites or show signs of respiratory disease, consider finding a different source. If a specific disease appears repeatedly in your area, adjust your testing protocol to screen for it more aggressively. Share your findings with your veterinarian and your local extension agent. They can help you interpret trends and adjust your biosecurity plan accordingly. County extension offices and state veterinary diagnostic laboratories are valuable resources for goat health information. ## Designing for Multiple Goats ### Group vs. Individual Quarantine If you are bringing in multiple goats at once, you can quarantine them together as a group. This works well when the goats come from the same source and have been housed together previously. Group quarantine saves space and reduces stress from isolation. Do not mix goats from different sources in the same quarantine pen. Each source farm has its own disease profile, and combining animals can spread pathogens between groups. If you must quarantine goats from different sources at the same time, use separate pens for each source group. ### Space Requirements The goat barn quarantine area needs enough space for the number of goats you typically bring in. A pen that is too small creates stress and increases disease transmission. Provide at least 20 to 30 square feet per adult goat in the quarantine pen, with more space for larger breeds or pregnant does. Add extra space for feed and water stations so all goats can eat and drink without competition. Place feed and water at opposite ends of the pen to encourage movement and reduce fighting. Provide enough lying space for all goats to rest comfortably. ### Separation Within the Quarantine Area If you are quarantining multiple goats, consider how you will separate sick animals from healthy ones. Build the quarantine area with removable partitions or multiple small pens. This allows you to isolate a goat that develops illness without disrupting the rest of the group. Plan for this before you need it. Trying to create temporary separation in an emergency is difficult and stressful for the animals. A well-designed quarantine area includes options for subdividing the space. ## Cleaning and Disinfection Between Quarantine Cycles ### Complete Cleaning Protocol After each quarantine group leaves, clean and disinfect the entire area before bringing in new goats. This includes: 1. Remove all bedding and manure from the pen. 2. Scrub all surfaces with soap and water to remove organic material. 3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. 4. Apply disinfectant to all surfaces, including walls, floors, and feeders. 5. Allow the disinfectant to dry completely. 6. Rinse again if required by the disinfectant label. 7. Let the pen air out for several days before new goats arrive. Do not skip the cleaning step. Disinfectants do not work well on dirty surfaces. Organic material inactivates many disinfectant products. ### Equipment Disinfection Clean and disinfect all quarantine equipment between uses. This includes buckets, feeders, grooming tools, and handling equipment. Follow the same cleaning and disinfection process used for the pen itself. Store clean equipment in a sealed container to prevent recontamination. Do not move quarantine equipment to the main barn even after disinfection. Keep dedicated equipment in the quarantine area at all times. If equipment must be moved, clean it thoroughly and consider whether the risk is acceptable. ### Resting the Pen Allow the quarantine pen to sit empty for at least 7 days between groups. This rest period lets any remaining pathogens die off and breaks the disease cycle. Longer rest periods are better for farms with high disease pressure. During the rest period, keep the pen dry and well ventilated. Sunlight is a natural disinfectant, so open the pen to direct sunlight when possible. Check for and repair any damage to fencing, flooring, or shelter. ## Special Considerations for Different Goat Types ### Pregnant Does Pregnant does need special attention during quarantine. Stress can trigger abortion, so handle them gently and provide extra bedding. Vaccinate and test during quarantine, but avoid unnecessary handling in the final weeks of pregnancy. If a pregnant doe aborts during quarantine, contact your veterinarian immediately. Abortion can be caused by infectious diseases like chlamydia, [toxoplasmosis](/knowledge/parasites/pet-parasites/toxoplasmosis-feline-transmission-public-health-clinical-management), or leptospirosis, some of which can also affect humans. Handle aborted tissues with gloves and dispose of them properly. ### Young Kids Kids have immature immune systems and are more susceptible to disease than adult goats. Quarantine kids separately from adult goats when possible. Provide extra warmth, clean bedding, and a diet appropriate for their age. Kids should receive colostrum from their dam or a reliable source within the first 12 hours of life. If you are bringing in a kid that did not receive adequate colostrum, talk to your veterinarian about supportive care and disease prevention. ### Breeding Bucks Bucks can transmit diseases through breeding, so their quarantine is especially important. Test bucks for sexually transmitted diseases and reproductive pathogens before allowing them to breed. Keep bucks in quarantine for the full recommended period even if they appear healthy. Bucks may be more aggressive and harder to handle than does or wethers. Design the quarantine pen with secure handling facilities and escape routes for your safety. Work with an experienced handler when managing unfamiliar bucks. ## Recordkeeping Templates and Tools ### Paper Records A simple paper log is sufficient for many small farms. Use a three ring binder with pages for each goat. Include sections for arrival information, health examination, test results, treatments, and daily observations. Keep the binder in a weatherproof container near the quarantine area. Create a standard form you can photocopy for each new goat. This ensures you collect the same information consistently. Review your form periodically and update it as your operation changes. ### Digital Records Spreadsheet programs like Excel or Google Sheets work well for goat health records. Create columns for each data point and rows for each goat. Use filters to sort by source, date, or health status. Back up your digital records regularly. Farm management apps designed for livestock can also help you track quarantine information. Many apps allow you to store photos, set reminders for testing and treatments, and generate reports. Choose a system that you will actually use consistently. ### Sharing Records When you sell a goat, provide the buyer with a complete health record. This includes test results, vaccination history, and any treatments the goat received. This information helps the buyer make good management decisions and builds trust in your operation. Keep copies of all records for your own reference. You may need to document the health history of your herd for buyers, insurers, or regulatory agencies. Good recordkeeping is a sign of a professional operation. ## When to Call a Veterinarian or Extension Agent ### Routine Veterinary Care Every goat farm should have a working relationship with a veterinarian who is knowledgeable about goats. Schedule routine visits for herd health planning, vaccination programs, and diagnostic testing. Your veterinarian can help you design your quarantine protocol and interpret test results. If you do not have a veterinarian who sees goats, ask other goat farmers in your area for recommendations. Your state veterinary medical association can also provide referrals. The USDA APHIS website offers resources on goat health and finding veterinary services. ### Emergency Situations Call your veterinarian immediately when a quarantined goat shows serious signs of illness. Do not try to diagnose or treat serious conditions on your own. Prompt veterinary care can mean the difference between recovery and death, and it can prevent disease from spreading to your main herd. Have your veterinarian's phone number posted in the quarantine area and programmed into your phone. Know the fastest route to the nearest emergency veterinary clinic in case you need to transport a sick goat. ### Extension Agent Consultation Your local cooperative extension agent can provide valuable resources on goat management and biosecurity. Extension agents can help you develop a herd health plan, interpret research on goat diseases, and connect you with educational programs in your area. Contact your county extension office for information on goat workshops, testing services, and disease updates. The FAO and WOAH also publish resources on animal health and biosecurity that can inform your practices. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How long should I quarantine a new goat? The minimum quarantine period is 30 days, but 60 days is strongly recommended. Many goat diseases have incubation periods longer than 30 days, meaning an infected goat may not show signs or test positive until after the minimum period. A 60 day quarantine gives you time to run multiple tests and observe the goat through a complete health cycle. Extend the quarantine if the goat shows any signs of illness or if you have not completed all planned testing. ### Can I quarantine a goat in the same barn as my main herd? You can quarantine a goat in a separate section of the same barn, but this is not ideal. Many respiratory pathogens spread through the air, and a shared barn increases the risk of disease transmission. If you must use the same barn, create a solid partition between the quarantine area and the main herd, direct airflow away from healthy animals, and maintain strict protocols for equipment and footwear. A separate building or a pen at least 50 feet away is the safer choice. ### What tests should I run on a new goat during quarantine? Work with your veterinarian to develop a testing protocol based on your herd's disease risks. At minimum, run a fecal float test for internal parasites within the first few days of arrival. Blood testing for CAE and CL is recommended for breeding animals. Some regions require testing for other diseases like Johne's disease or brucellosis. Your veterinarian can recommend the most appropriate tests for your situation. ### Do I need to deworm every new goat? No. Routine deworming of all incoming goats contributes to drug resistance and can harm the goat's beneficial gut flora. Instead, run a fecal egg count test and deworm only goats with significant parasite loads. The American Consortium for [Small Ruminant Parasite Control](/knowledge/veterinary-medicine/food-animal-medicine/small-ruminant-parasite-control-diagnostic-strategies-anthelmintic-stewardship) recommends this targeted approach to parasite management. Work with your veterinarian to interpret fecal test results and choose the appropriate treatment. ### What do I do if a quarantined goat tests positive for a disease? The answer depends on the disease. Some conditions, like internal parasites, can be treated successfully. Others, like CAE, CL, and Johne's disease, have no cure. For incurable diseases, you may need to return the goat to the seller, cull it, or keep it permanently isolated. Discuss your options with your veterinarian, considering the value of the goat and the risk to your main herd. ### Can I let quarantined goats see my main herd? Yes, visual contact is generally acceptable and can reduce stress for both groups. Many farms place quarantine pens where goats can see and hear the main herd without physical contact. However, do not allow nose-to-nose contact through fencing. Use solid barriers or double fencing with a gap to prevent direct contact while allowing visual and auditory stimulation. ### How do I clean the quarantine pen between groups? Remove all bedding and manure, scrub all surfaces with soap and water, rinse thoroughly, apply an appropriate disinfectant, and allow the pen to dry completely. Let the pen sit empty for at least 7 days before bringing in new goats. Clean and disinfect all equipment used during the quarantine period. Do not move quarantine equipment to the main barn even after cleaning. ### Is quarantine necessary if I buy goats from a trusted seller? Yes. Even goats from trusted sources can carry subclinical infections. The seller may not know the goat is carrying a disease, or the goat may have been exposed during transport. Quarantine is a risk management tool that protects your herd regardless of the source. A goat that appears healthy can still shed pathogens that sicken your established animals. ## Related Farming Guides This section will be populated with links to related [goat farming](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-farming-dairy-and-meat-production-browse-kidding-parasite-risk-and-welfare) guides, including herd health planning, [goat housing design](/knowledge/animal-farming/alternative-livestock/goat-housing-design-shelter-space-ventilation), biosecurity for small farms, and common goat diseases. Check back for updated resources. ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Goat Breeding Season Planning: Timing, Nutrition, and Health Checks](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-breeding-season-planning) * [Alfalfa Hay for Goats: Feeding Decisions and Mineral Context](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/alfalfa-hay-for-goats-feeding-decisions-and-mineral-context) * [Goat Fiber Production: Cashmere and Mohair Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-fiber-production-cashmere-mohair-management) ## References - American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control (ACSRPC): https://www.wormx.info/ - USDA APHIS Goat Health: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/sheep-goats - FAO Sheep and Goat Production: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - FAO Animal Production and Health: https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en/ - WOAH (World Organisation for Animal Health): https://www.woah.org/en/home/ > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.