Below you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive. Give us a holler if you don't find what you're looking for.

Q. Do you sell milk for human consumption?

A. Unfortunately, the State of Texas does not permit the sale of milk (either raw or pasteurized) without certification. In fact, in order to sell milk even for pet consumption, the state requires one to be permitted! Milking the small number of goats we do at this time would most likely not justify the expense of certification. Thank goodness our family can still enjoy the milk ourselves, and it is used in the cheeses we make. Need additional information?

Q. I have heard goat milk tastes bad. Is this true?

A. The secret we goatraisers keep to ourselves in order to prevent people from knocking on our doors at all hours is that fresh, properly handled goat milk from healthy animals tastes great! Most people cannot distinguish between fresh goat milk and cow milk. We raise Nubian dairy goats, which are known for producing some of the best-tasting milk.

Q. What are the advantages of goat milk versus cow milk and how do they compare in terms of vitamin and mineral content?

A. Of course some of the components (protein, butterfat, mineral content) will vary based on the breed, diet and environment of the animal, but in general, goat milk is more easily digested than cow milk and contains less allergenic proteins. It contains slightly less lactose. It should be noted that goat milk is lower in folic acid than cow milk, and infants or children consuming goat milk may require a supplement. For a more detailed comparison, here is just one of many articles available on the web.

Q. I've heard grassfed animals produce healthier meat and milk. Are your goats strictly grass fed?

A. No. While goats and cows are both ruminants, goats are not simply small cows. One of the differences between goats and cows is that cows are grazers while goats are known as "browsers," meaning they need a varied diet in order to meet their nutritional requirements. They prefer to "eat from the knees up" and seek out weeds, shrubs and even trees in addition to grasses. Unless goats are raised in this ideal environment, a simple pasture won't sustain them. In addition, today's dairy goats have been bred for higher milk production, and their bodies require more calories than they could consume from pasture. Therefore, our goats receive grass hay, alfalfa hay or pellets, and an oat-based 16% protein lactation ration (and of course treats like carrots and sunflower seeds).

Q. Do you animals receive hormones or antibiotics?

A. Hormones, no. Antibiotics, only when necessary for the health of the animal. Any milk withdrawal times are strictly followed upon completion of antibiotic therapy.