When I meet people, both fiber enthusiasts and people who want to try their hand at farming, I’m often asked about what it’s like owning the herd of goats, if caring for them is difficult, how much time is involved, and how much the person wishes to own a farm. I often chuckle quietly, thinking after a week of work with me they might have a change of heart. So let me give a quick overview of farming and the care of angora goats, and the pros and cons of managing a herd.
Now, I might have a slight advantage to most people as I’ve been around horses most of my life. I worked on the eventing circuit and have own my own horses for many years. I understand the time and money involved with large animals and livestock.
Owning angora goats can be alluring as they are known for their luxurious mohair and are a popular choice for those seeking to produce high-quality fiber. However, before diving into goat ownership, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of raising these animals versus simply purchasing mohair from reputable suppliers. Here’s a look at the benefits and challenges of owning angora goats.
The Pros of Owning Angora Goats
Easy Access to High-Quality Fiber - Owning angora goats allows you to control the quality and color of the mohair you produce. You can choose the individual goats by their color, and monitor the health and diet of your goats, directly influencing the fiber’s texture, strength, and sheen.
Sustainable and Ethical Production - By raising your own goats, you can guarantee ethical practices and sustainable farming methods. This transparency is particularly appealing if you’re selling products to eco-conscious customers.
Connection to the Fiber Source - Raising angora goats offers a unique connection to the fiber’s origin. From shearing to processing, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the work that goes into creating mohair products. You can also set your standard for the mohair and how it’s used in the various products you’ll market.
A Multi-Purpose Animal - Angora goats are not just fiber producers; they can also help with land management. They are by nature foragers rather than grazers, so they’ll eat brush and weeds, including privet, kudzu and ivy to name a few of their favorites.
Community and Networking Opportunities - Owning angora goats can introduce you to a vibrant community of fiber producers, goat enthusiasts, and small-scale farmers. These connections can lead to shared knowledge, support, and even collaboration opportunities.
The Cons of Owning Angora Goats
Time-Consuming Care - Angora goats require daily care and maintenance, including feeding and haying (depending on how much pasture they have), hoof trimming, monitoring for health issues such as worms, and a daily general check on their health and wellbeing. They also need to be sheared twice a year, which requires skill and proper equipment.
Initial and Ongoing Costs - The costs of purchasing angora goats, building appropriate shelters, fencing, and buying feed can add up quickly. Additionally, veterinary care and parasite management are ongoing expenses.
Specialized Knowledge Required - Raising angora goats isn’t as simple as owning other animals. You’ll need to learn about their dietary needs and health issues. This can take some time to become comfortable with their needs.
Fiber Processing Challenges - While producing your own mohair can be rewarding, processing it into usable fiber requires time, effort, and equipment. Washing, carding, and dyeing the fiber is labor-intensive. You can send the fiber to a mill, but that’s expensive and can take months to get completed.
Commitment and Responsibility - Owning animals is a long-term commitment. The goats require a check once a day, and ideally twice. They can live for 10-15 years, and their care cannot be neglected. This level of responsibility may not suit everyone’s lifestyle.
The Case for Purchasing Mohair
If the challenges of owning angora goats feels overwhelming, purchasing mohair may be a better option. High-quality fiber is readily available from ethical and sustainable farms. By purchasing instead of raising goats, you can focus on your craft without the additional responsibility of livestock care. Supporting small farms also helps sustain the fiber community and ensures access to premium materials.
In conclusion, owning angora goats can be a deeply rewarding experience, offering direct access to high-quality fiber and a connection to the production process. However, it’s not without its challenges, including time, cost, and responsibility. For some, purchasing mohair from trusted suppliers may be the more practical choice, allowing them to enjoy the beauty of mohair without the commitment of goat ownership. Whether you choose to raise goats or buy fiber, the key is finding what aligns best with your lifestyle, resources, and goals.
Comments