The majority of goats in New Zealand are farmed for their milk, wool (mohair and cashmere) and meat. In 2007, over 110,000 goats were reared on farms. However, during the early 1990s when the demand for goat fibre was high, the nation’s farmed goat population exceeded one million. Today, goat farming still remains a relatively small and niche market, although industrialised indoor rearing systems are becoming more prevalent as the industry grows.
The gregarious and friendly nature of goats makes them appealing animal companions. Sadly, however, many of these goats end up becoming little more than cheap lawnmowers, tethered alone on roadsides around the country.
In New Zealand, tethered goats lead to more complaints to MAF and the SPCA than any other animal. Roadside goats are often not provided with adequate food or shelter, are stressed from being confined alone, often hit by passing cars, exposed to vehicle noise and pollution and subject to injury or abuse from passersby. One recent goat attack victim was Geordie, an ageing goat from New Plymouth. Geordie was the target of two separate attacks in as many weeks where he was tagged by local youths thinking they were being funny. Other goats have suffered more serious or fatal offences such as being shot, set on fire or dragged behind cars.
Despite NAWAC’s acknowledgement that ‘goats should not be tethered,’ the draft code makes no effort to prohibit goats from being left tethered on the roadside,” says SAFE campaign officer Mandy Carter.
HAVE YOUR SAY!
By making a submission before June 11, you can really make a difference.
Please use this opportunity to let NAWAC and the government know that you want to see far better protection for goats.
Click here to view the draft code of welfare for goats. You can email your submission or post to: NAWAC Secretary, MAF Biosecurity, PO Box 2526, Wellington 6140.
