# Goat Farm Startup Costs and Budgeting ## Key Takeaways - Initial capital investment for a small-scale goat farm can range from $10,000 to over $50,000, with land and facilities representing the largest upfront expense, followed by livestock acquisition. Secure fencing, adequate shelter (especially for dairy goats to prevent respiratory disease and mastitis), and appropriate handling equipment are critical infrastructure components. - Recurring operating expenses are dominated by feed and nutrition, typically accounting for 40-60% of total costs, necessitating robust pasture management and potentially bulk purchasing of feed ingredients. Veterinary and health care costs, including vaccinations (e.g., for clostridial diseases, rabies), deworming based on fecal egg counts, and hoof trimming, are essential for herd productivity and disease prevention. - Profitability varies significantly by enterprise type: dairy operations offer regular income but demand intensive daily labor for twice-daily milking; meat operations have lower startup costs but face seasonal price volatility; and fiber operations require specialized knowledge and marketing for niche markets. - Common failure patterns include underestimating feed costs, inadequate fencing leading to animal loss and damage, insufficient working capital to cover operating expenses during the initial 2-5 year period before profitability, and introducing disease through inadequate biosecurity protocols for new herd additions, such as failing to screen for Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis (CAE) or Caseous Lymphadenitis (CL). - Accurate record-keeping is paramount for financial management, tax reporting, and production analysis, encompassing financial, production, health, and inventory data. Cash flow management is critical, requiring adequate working capital or credit access to bridge periods of high expense and low income, particularly during startup and seasonal production cycles. --- Starting a [goat farming](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-farming-dairy-and-meat-production-browse-kidding-parasite-risk-and-welfare) operation requires careful financial planning across multiple cost categories. This article provides a structured framework for estimating initial capital requirements, recurring expenses, and revenue projections for dairy, meat, and fiber goat enterprises. The information is intended for prospective goat farmers evaluating the financial feasibility of a new operation. ## At a Glance: Goat Farm Startup Cost Categories The table below summarizes the major cost categories for a small-scale goat farm startup. Actual costs vary significantly by region, scale, and production type. | Cost Category | Typical Range (USD) | Notes | |---------------|---------------------|-------| | Land and facilities | 5,000 - 50,000+ | Fencing, shelter, water systems, handling equipment | | Initial livestock purchase | 2,000 - 20,000+ | Depends on breed, age, quantity, and purpose (dairy, meat, fiber) | | Feed and nutrition | 1,000 - 5,000 per year | Hay, grain, minerals, and pasture management | | Veterinary and health | 500 - 3,000 per year | Vaccinations, deworming, hoof care, emergency treatment | | Equipment and supplies | 1,000 - 10,000 | Milking equipment, shearing tools, feeders, waterers | | Permits and licensing | 100 - 1,000 | Varies by local regulations | | Marketing and sales | 200 - 2,000 per year | Advertising, market fees, transportation | | Insurance | 500 - 3,000 per year | Liability, property, livestock mortality | ## Initial Capital Requirements ### Land and Site Preparation Land costs represent the largest initial investment for most goat farms. The amount of land needed depends on stocking density, which varies by climate, forage quality, and management system. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical guidance on pasture management and carrying capacity through local conservation districts. Prospective farmers should contact their local NRCS office for site-specific recommendations. Fencing is a critical expense. Goats are agile escape artists and require secure fencing. Options include woven wire, electric netting, and high-tensile electric fence. Each system has different installation costs and maintenance requirements. Permanent woven wire fencing with electric offset wires is the most secure but also the most expensive option. Electric netting is less expensive and portable but requires regular inspection and maintenance. Shelter requirements depend on climate and production type. Dairy goats need clean, dry housing with proper ventilation to prevent respiratory disease and mastitis. Meat and fiber goats require protection from extreme weather but can thrive with three-sided shelters in moderate climates. The USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) conducts research on livestock housing and welfare that can inform facility design decisions. ### Livestock Purchase The cost of purchasing foundation stock varies widely by breed, age, pedigree, and purpose. Dairy breeds such as Saanen, Nubian, and Alpine typically cost more than meat breeds like Boer or Kiko. Fiber goats such as Angora and Cashmere have their own price ranges based on fleece quality. When budgeting for livestock purchases, consider the following factors: - **Age and production stage**: Does in milk or bred does cost more than weanlings or doelings - **Health status**: Purchase from herds with documented health records and negative test results for caprine arthritis encephalitis (CAE) and caseous lymphadenitis (CL) - **Registration status**: Registered animals with pedigrees cost more than commercial-grade animals - **Quantity**: Buying in groups may qualify for volume discounts from some breeders The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on health screening and biosecurity protocols for new herd additions. Prospective buyers should request health records and consider a pre-purchase veterinary examination. ### Equipment and Infrastructure Equipment needs vary by production type. Dairy operations require milking equipment, milk storage tanks, and cleaning supplies. Meat operations need handling facilities, scales, and transport equipment. Fiber operations require shearing equipment, wool handling supplies, and storage for fleeces. Common equipment expenses include: - Feeders and hay racks designed to reduce waste - Waterers with freeze protection in cold climates - Hoof trimming tools and supplies - Vaccination and treatment supplies - Identification systems (ear tags, tattoos, or microchips) - Scales for weight monitoring - Transport trailer or vehicle modifications ## Recurring Operating Expenses ### Feed and Nutrition Feed costs represent the largest ongoing expense for most goat operations. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) provides resources on animal nutrition and feed management through its Animal Production and Health division. Feed requirements vary by production stage, body weight, and production level. Forage is the foundation of [goat nutrition](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-nutrition-basics-essential-nutrients-feeding-management). Hay, pasture, or browse should form the majority of the diet. Grain or concentrate supplements are needed for high-producing dairy does, growing kids, and animals in late gestation or early lactation. Mineral supplements are essential for all goats, with specific formulations available for different production types. Feed costs can be managed through: - Pasture management and rotational grazing to maximize forage utilization - Hay testing to determine nutritional value and balance rations accordingly - Bulk purchasing of feed ingredients - On-farm feed production where feasible ### Veterinary and Health Care Regular veterinary care is essential for herd health and productivity. The USDA National Agricultural Library maintains resources on animal health and welfare that can inform preventive health programs. Routine health expenses include: - Vaccinations for clostridial diseases, rabies, and other regionally relevant diseases - Deworming based on fecal egg counts and targeted treatment protocols - Hoof trimming every 6 to 8 weeks - CAE testing and control programs - Emergency veterinary treatment for illness or injury The Merck Veterinary Manual provides detailed information on [goat health management](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-health-management-vaccination-biosecurity-disease-prevention), including vaccination schedules, parasite control, and disease prevention. Farmers should establish a relationship with a veterinarian experienced in small ruminant medicine before problems arise. ### Breeding and Reproduction Breeding costs depend on the chosen method. Natural service requires maintaining a buck, which adds feed, housing, and health care expenses. Artificial insemination (AI) eliminates the need for a buck but requires synchronization protocols, semen purchase, and AI supplies or technician fees. Buck maintenance costs include: - Separate housing to prevent unwanted breeding - Secure fencing to contain breeding males - Health testing and vaccination - Feed and nutrition appropriate for breeding condition ### Labor Labor costs are often underestimated in farm budgets. Goat farming requires daily attention for feeding, health monitoring, and facility maintenance. Dairy operations require twice-daily milking. Kidding and lambing seasons require intensive management, including nighttime checks and assistance with difficult births. Farmers should realistically assess their available labor and consider the cost of hired help during peak periods. Labor costs should include wages, payroll taxes, workers compensation insurance, and any benefits provided. ### Marketing and Sales Marketing expenses vary by sales channel. Direct-to-consumer sales through farmers markets, farm stands, or community supported agriculture (CSA) programs require time and materials for advertising, packaging, and customer communication. Wholesale sales to processors or distributors may require less marketing effort but yield lower prices per unit. Marketing costs may include: - Website development and maintenance - Social media advertising - Printed materials such as business cards and brochures - Market booth fees - Product sampling and promotional events - Transportation to markets ## Revenue Projections ### Dairy Operations Dairy goat revenue comes primarily from milk sales, with additional income from breeding stock, kids, and cull animals. Milk prices vary by market and product form. Fluid milk sold directly to consumers commands higher prices than milk sold to processors. Value-added products such as cheese, yogurt, and soap can increase revenue per gallon but require additional equipment, labor, and regulatory compliance. Revenue factors for dairy operations include: - Milk production per doe per lactation (typically 1,500 to 3,000 pounds for improved dairy breeds) - Lactation length (typically 10 months) - Number of does in production - Milk price per gallon or per pound - Kid crop and sale prices - Cull doe prices ### Meat Operations Meat goat revenue comes from the sale of kids, yearlings, and cull animals. Market prices fluctuate seasonally, with higher prices typically during spring and summer holidays. Direct sales to consumers or ethnic markets often yield higher prices than sales through livestock auctions. Revenue factors for meat operations include: - Kidding rate (number of kids born per doe exposed) - Weaning weight and growth rate - Market weight and condition - Sale price per pound or per head - Cull animal sales - Breeding stock sales ### Fiber Operations Fiber goat revenue comes from fleece sales, with additional income from breeding stock and cull animals. Mohair from Angora goats and cashmere from Cashmere goats command different prices based on fiber quality, length, and cleanliness. Value-added processing such as washing, carding, and spinning can increase revenue but requires additional equipment and labor. Revenue factors for fiber operations include: - Fleece weight per shearing (typically 5 to 10 pounds for Angora goats) - Shearing frequency (typically twice per year for Angora goats) - Fiber grade and market price - Breeding stock sales - Cull animal sales ## Financial Planning and Record Keeping ### Developing a Business Plan A written business plan is essential for securing financing and guiding management decisions. The plan should include: - Executive summary describing the operation - Market analysis identifying target customers and competition - Production plan detailing facilities, breeds, and management practices - Financial projections including startup costs, operating expenses, and revenue estimates - Risk management strategies for price fluctuations, disease outbreaks, and weather events ### Record Keeping Systems Accurate records are necessary for financial management, tax reporting, and production analysis. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on [farm record keeping](/knowledge/animal-farming/farm-management/farm-record-keeping-essential-templates-and-software-for-better-management) through its Animal Health and Welfare section. Essential records include: - Financial records: income, expenses, assets, and liabilities - Production records: breeding dates, kidding dates, milk production, weaning weights - Health records: vaccinations, treatments, test results, and mortality - Inventory records: animal identification, purchases, sales, and deaths ### Cash Flow Management Cash flow is critical for farm survival. Many expenses occur before revenue is generated. Startup costs must be covered before any income is received. Seasonal production patterns create periods of high expense and low income. Farmers should maintain adequate working capital or access to credit to cover operating expenses during lean periods. Cash flow management strategies include: - Staggering breeding to spread kidding seasons - Diversifying income streams through multiple products - Establishing lines of credit before they are needed - Building cash reserves during profitable periods ## Common Failure Patterns ### Underestimating Feed Costs Feed costs are the largest ongoing expense for most goat operations. New farmers often underestimate the quantity and quality of feed required. Hay prices fluctuate with weather and market conditions. Drought years can dramatically increase feed costs. Farmers should budget for higher feed prices and have contingency plans for feed shortages. ### Inadequate Fencing Goats are notorious escape artists. Inadequate fencing leads to lost animals, crop damage, and neighbor complaints. New farmers sometimes choose cheaper fencing options that fail to contain goats. The cost of replacing or upgrading fencing after animals escape is often higher than installing proper fencing initially. ### Insufficient Working Capital Many new farms fail because they run out of money before becoming profitable. Startup costs are often higher than anticipated, and revenue takes longer to materialize than expected. Farmers should have sufficient working capital to cover at least one full year of operating expenses before expecting significant income. ### Disease Introduction Introducing diseased animals is a common and costly mistake. New farmers may purchase animals from unknown sources without proper health testing. Diseases such as CAE, caseous lymphadenitis, and Johne's disease can devastate a herd and are difficult or impossible to eradicate once established. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on biosecurity protocols for new herd additions. ### Poor Record Keeping Without accurate records, farmers cannot identify profitable and unprofitable aspects of their operation. Poor record keeping leads to missed tax deductions, inability to secure financing, and difficulty making informed management decisions. Farmers should establish record keeping systems before the farm begins operating. ## Welfare and Safety Considerations ### Animal Welfare Proper animal welfare is both an ethical obligation and a business necessity. Stressed or unhealthy animals produce less milk, grow more slowly, and have lower reproductive performance. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal welfare standards and best practices through its Animal Health and Welfare section. Key welfare considerations include: - Adequate space and shelter for all animals - Access to clean water and appropriate nutrition - Regular health monitoring and prompt treatment of illness or injury - Humane handling and transport practices - Pain management for surgical procedures such as castration and disbudding ### Worker Safety Goat farming involves physical labor and potential hazards. Workers should be trained in safe animal handling techniques to prevent injury from kicks, head butts, and crushing. Equipment such as hay balers, tractors, and milking machines require proper training and maintenance. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on agricultural safety and health. ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) Dairy and meat operations must comply with food safety regulations. The USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) regulates meat processing, while the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dairy products. Farmers should understand and comply with all applicable food safety requirements, including: - Proper milk handling and cooling - Sanitary milking procedures - Clean water supply - Pest control - Traceability systems ## Professional Escalation Criteria Certain situations require professional assistance beyond the farmer's expertise. Farmers should seek professional help when: - **Veterinary emergencies**: Animals with severe illness, injury, or difficult births require immediate veterinary attention. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on recognizing emergency situations. - **Financial difficulties**: Farmers struggling with cash flow, debt, or tax issues should consult with agricultural lenders, accountants, or farm financial counselors. - **Legal issues**: Zoning disputes, neighbor complaints, contract disputes, and regulatory compliance issues may require legal counsel. - **Technical assistance**: The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical assistance on conservation planning, pasture management, and facility design through local conservation districts. - **Market development**: Farmers seeking new markets or value-added opportunities may benefit from business development assistance through state departments of agriculture or cooperative extension services. ## Comparing Enterprise Types: A Decision Framework for Dairy, Meat, and Fiber Operations Choosing between dairy, meat, and fiber goat production requires evaluating how each enterprise type aligns with your available resources, market access, and management capacity. The following decision framework provides a structured method for comparing these three production systems across key operational dimensions. This framework supplements the financial projections in the previous section by focusing on non-financial factors that influence long-term success. ### Enterprise Comparison Framework Use the table below as a starting point for comparing dairy, meat, and fiber operations. Rate each enterprise type on a scale of 1 (lowest demand or easiest) to 5 (highest demand or hardest) for your specific situation. | Decision Factor | Dairy | Meat | Fiber | |-----------------|-------|------|-------| | Daily labor requirement | 5 (twice-daily milking) | 2 (feeding and observation) | 2 (feeding and observation) | | Facility investment | 4 (milking parlor, milk house) | 2 (basic shelter, handling) | 2 (basic shelter, shearing area) | | Technical skill needed | 4 (mastitis prevention, milk quality) | 2 (basic husbandry) | 3 (fleece evaluation, shearing) | | Market access difficulty | 3 (permits, cooling, transport) | 2 (auctions, direct sales) | 4 (specialized fiber buyers) | | Income regularity | 4 (monthly milk checks) | 2 (seasonal sales peaks) | 2 (biannual shearing income) | | Regulatory burden | 4 (Grade A dairy permits) | 2 (basic livestock regulations) | 1 (minimal processing rules) | | Startup cost level | 4 (milking equipment, milk house) | 2 (basic fencing and shelter) | 3 (shearing equipment, handling) | ### Practical Assessment Steps Follow these steps to evaluate which enterprise type fits your situation: 1. **Inventory your existing resources**. List your available land, existing buildings, water access, fencing, and equipment. A farm with a barn and water already in place has lower startup costs for any enterprise type. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical assistance through local conservation districts for evaluating existing infrastructure. 2. **Assess your available labor**. Calculate the hours per day you can commit to the operation. Dairy requires 2 to 4 hours per day for milking alone, plus additional time for feeding, cleaning, and health checks. Meat and fiber operations require 30 to 60 minutes per day for routine care, with higher labor demands during kidding season. 3. **Evaluate local market conditions**. Contact your state department of agriculture and local cooperative extension office for market information. Identify potential customers, competitors, and price ranges for dairy products, meat, and fiber in your area. Direct-to-consumer sales through farmers markets or farm stands may support smaller operations, while wholesale markets require larger production volumes. 4. **Consider your regulatory environment**. Contact your local planning department and health department to determine zoning restrictions, building permits, and food safety requirements. Dairy operations face the most regulatory oversight, including milk house construction standards, water testing, and routine inspections. Meat operations selling directly to consumers may qualify for exemptions from federal inspection under certain conditions, but state regulations vary. 5. **Match enterprise type to your long-term goals**. Dairy provides regular income but requires daily commitment year-round. Meat offers flexibility in marketing timing but depends on seasonal price cycles. Fiber requires specialized knowledge of fleece grading and marketing but can be combined with other enterprises. ### Record System for Enterprise Comparison Maintain a decision journal with the following records to track your evaluation process: - **Resource inventory**: Date, existing structures and their condition, water sources and flow rates, fencing type and condition, acreage available for pasture - **Labor assessment**: Hours available per day, seasonal labor availability, family labor vs. hired labor, skill level of available workers - **Market research**: Date of market inquiry, contact name and organization, price ranges quoted, volume requirements, quality specifications, seasonal demand patterns - **Regulatory checklist**: Permit type, application date, fee amount, approval date, inspection requirements, renewal schedule - **Enterprise scoring**: Date of evaluation, scores for each decision factor, total score for each enterprise type, notes on assumptions ### Common Failure Patterns in Enterprise Selection **Choosing dairy without assessing daily labor commitment**. New farmers sometimes underestimate the time required for twice-daily milking. Missing a milking causes discomfort for does and can reduce milk production. Farmers should realistically assess whether they can maintain a consistent milking schedule for 10 months of the year. **Selecting meat without securing reliable market access**. Meat goat prices fluctuate seasonally and by region. Farmers who assume they can sell all kids at premium prices may face disappointment when markets are saturated. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) provides resources on market analysis and value chain development through its Animal Production and Health division. **Starting fiber without understanding fleece marketing**. Fiber goats produce fleece twice per year, but selling raw fleece requires knowledge of fiber grading, preparation, and buyer preferences. Some fiber producers find that processing fleece into yarn or finished products increases revenue but requires additional equipment and skills. **Combining enterprises without adequate facilities**. Some farmers attempt to run dairy, meat, and fiber operations simultaneously without separate facilities for each group. This approach can lead to management conflicts, biosecurity risks, and reduced productivity. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on biosecurity protocols for operations with multiple animal groups. ### Welfare and Safety Context Enterprise selection directly affects animal welfare and worker safety. Dairy operations require careful attention to udder health, milking hygiene, and proper milking machine function to prevent mastitis. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on dairy goat welfare through its Animal Health and Welfare section. Meat operations require humane handling facilities for loading, unloading, and processing. Poor facility design increases stress for animals and injury risk for workers. Fiber operations require proper shearing techniques to prevent cuts and stress. Shearing should be performed by trained individuals using well-maintained equipment. ### Professional Escalation Criteria Seek professional guidance when: - **Market analysis reveals no clear sales channel**. Contact your state department of agriculture or cooperative extension service for market development assistance before investing in livestock. - **Regulatory requirements exceed your understanding**. Consult with an agricultural attorney or your local health department to clarify permit requirements and compliance steps. - **Facility needs are unclear**. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical assistance on facility design and conservation planning through local conservation districts. - **You are considering combining multiple enterprise types**. Consult with an experienced goat farmer or extension specialist to evaluate facility needs, labor requirements, and biosecurity considerations for mixed operations. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much does it cost to start a small goat farm? Startup costs for a small goat farm typically range from 10,000 to 50,000 USD, depending on land costs, fencing, shelter, and livestock purchases. A basic operation with 10 to 20 goats on owned land with existing fencing may cost less, while a new operation requiring land purchase, facility construction, and foundation stock will cost more. Prospective farmers should develop a detailed budget based on their specific situation and local prices. ### What is the most profitable type of goat farming? Profitability depends on market conditions, production efficiency, and management skill. Dairy operations can generate regular income from milk sales but require daily labor and specialized equipment. Meat operations have lower startup costs and labor requirements but face seasonal price fluctuations. Fiber operations offer potential for high-value products but have smaller markets. Diversified operations with multiple income streams often have more stable profitability. ### How many goats do I need to make a profit? The number of goats needed for profitability depends on production type, market prices, and cost structure. A dairy operation may need 20 to 50 productive does to generate meaningful income, while a meat operation may need 50 to 100 breeding does. Fiber operations may require 100 or more animals to achieve economies of scale. Farmers should develop financial projections based on their specific situation instead of relying on general guidelines. ### What are the ongoing costs of keeping goats? Ongoing costs include feed, veterinary care, hoof trimming, breeding, labor, utilities, insurance, and marketing. Feed costs typically represent 40 to 60 percent of total operating expenses. Veterinary and health care costs vary by region and management practices. Farmers should budget for routine expenses and maintain reserves for unexpected costs such as emergency veterinary treatment or facility repairs. ### How long does it take for a goat farm to become profitable? Most goat farms take 2 to 5 years to become profitable. The first year typically involves significant startup costs with limited revenue. Profitability improves as the herd expands, production systems are optimized, and markets are developed. Farmers should have sufficient working capital to cover operating expenses during the startup period. ### What permits and licenses do I need for a goat farm? Permit and license requirements vary by location and production type. Common requirements include business licenses, zoning permits, building permits for structures, and food safety permits for dairy or meat processing. Farmers should contact their local planning department, health department, and state department of agriculture to determine applicable requirements. ### How do I finance a goat farm startup? Financing options include personal savings, bank loans, farm credit system loans, grants, and investor capital. The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) offers loan programs for beginning farmers and ranchers. Farmers should prepare a detailed business plan and financial projections before applying for financing. ### What insurance do I need for a goat farm? Insurance needs include general liability insurance to protect against injury claims, property insurance for buildings and equipment, and livestock mortality insurance for valuable animals. Farmers should consult with an insurance agent experienced in agricultural operations to determine appropriate coverage. ## Related Farming Guides - [Goat Breed Selection For Dairy Meat Fiber And Brush Control](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-breed-selection-for-dairy-meat-fiber-and-brush-control) - [Meat Goat Pasture And Browse Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/meat-goat-pasture-and-browse-management) - [Goat Farming Dairy And Meat Production Browse Kidding Parasite Risk And Welfare](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-farming-dairy-and-meat-production-browse-kidding-parasite-risk-and-welfare) - [Raising Meat Goats From Weaning To Market](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/raising-meat-goats-from-weaning-to-market) - [Marketing Goat Meat Milk And Fiber Within Local Rules](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/marketing-goat-meat-milk-and-fiber-within-local-rules) ## 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 and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/) - [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.