We live on 3/4 acre of lush grass that, due to slope, knee injury, etc. is getting much harder to mow. My wife had the idea that if we got a goat, it could keep the grass trimmed during the growing season (would be tethered in different areas periodically as needed). Then, at the end of our rather long growing season -- Bar-B-Q!
![Very Happy :D](./images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif)
Questions, for those of you who are familiar with such critters -- any info or suggestions would be helpful. Would be curious to hear if this seems workable or not.
1. Would the goat do much damage to the lawn, whether by eating grass too close to the ground or otherwise? (Grass is zoysia.) I realize I'd need to keep it away from anything I didn't want eaten. One side of our yard is threatened by kudzoo -- incredibly fast-growing vines that quickly overtake everything in their path. Goat'd have lots to keep it busy over there!!
2. Would 3/4 acre be enough to sustain a goat for a spring/summer, and would other feed be needed in addition to grass?
3. I presume a female goat would be the better choice, and would assume that starting with a fairly young one would be reasonable? Or would you want a grown one in this situation?
4. Any tips on buying goats? Where to find them, what to look for, any particular type?
Roughly what do they cost?
Thanks very much,
John