Most of the questions about goats in general and our goats specifically we save for discussions at the field. Here, though, are answers to common questions about our rules and expectations.
Q:Can we feed them? (Why can’t we feed them?)
A: Please do not feed our animals. Many of them will come for scratches at the fence on their own if that’s what you’re looking for. Also, it’s important that only we are making health and safety decisions about the herd. These animals are well cared for, and we ask that you please do not substitute your judgment for our own. Yes, this includes anything you might be thinking “Even _____?” about. Feeding the animals is strictly prohibited.
Q: How much does it cost to visit the goats?
A: Nothing. We do not require any fee to come in and pet the goats. However, we are a nonprofit, and our organization relies entirely on donations, so if you feel inclined to leave a donation while you’re here, it is always appreciated!
Q: Can you take the goats I can’t keep anymore?
A: No. We simply aren’t set up to take on additional goats, either as straight adoptions or temporary fosters. This goes for other animals as well. See our goats page for a list of rescues and sanctuaries.
Q: Can I volunteer? Can my teenage son or daughter?
For insurance and liability reasons, we cannot include volunteers under the age of 18. Any adult over 18 may submit an application to volunteer, and will be required to attend an orientation meeting to go over all of the details before starting. All volunteers start out on a trial basis, and becoming a volunteer does not guarantee a key to the field.
Q: Do you sell goat meat/milk?
A: No, we do not sell goat meat, goat milk, goat fiber, or any other animal product. Our goats are privately owned pets and are not raised to produce anything. We have had the same goats since our inception, and do not provide any of these services.
Q: Do you rent the goats out to eat blackberries?
A: While this herd began on a field whose owners brought in rented herds to clear brush, our goats have never had this job. They are goats of leisure.
Q: why aren’t they called the lents goats?/Why aren’t they called the University Park goats?
A: The history is the brand. The nonprofit formed in 2014 was named The Belmont Goats because that’s how people referred to the herd, and rather than change the name of the corporation, and all of our social media presence, every time the herd moved, we stuck with the history. This is a common thing for businesses to do. Hawthorne Chiropractic left Hawthorne but kept the name. Seven Corners Cycles left Seven Corners but kept the name. Same here.