Sarda goat farming is popular for both meat and milk production purpose. It is actually an indigenous goat breed from the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, off the west coast of central Italy. It is an ancient goat breed that has been influenced by the Maltese goat.
The Sarda goats are not common and available throughout the world. But it is a very good dual-purpose animal and good for both meat and milk production purpose.
The breed was probably originated as a cross between various breeds (especially Maltese) which were introduced to the Italian island.
Currently, the Sarda goats are raised throughout the Sardina island, particularly in the provinces of Cagliari and Nuoro. And the breed is one of the eight autochthonous Italian goat breeds for which a genealogical herdbook is kept by the Associazione Nazionale della pastorizia, the Italian national association of sheep and goat breeders.
In the native area, today the Sarda goats are raised mainly for milk production and also used for milk production purpose. And commercial Sarda goat farming can be a very good and profitable business idea.
How to Start Sarda Goat Farming
Starting Sarda goat farming business is just like starting a goat farming business with any other domestic goat breeds.
The Sarda goats are very beautiful, hardy and strong animals. And they are very easy to care for.
Here we are describing everything about starting and operating a successful Sarda goat farming business.
Purchase Goats
First of all, purchase very good quality, healthy and disease free goats from any of your nearest livestock market or existing farms. You can also search your local online classified websites.
Housing
Building a good house or shelter for the animals is very important for Sarda goat farming business. So build a good house for your goats.
Like many other domestic goat breeds, the Sarda goats also prefer dry and clean place for living. So, making a raised house (which is above from the ground) will be very good for the animals.
Build the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house. Install good ventilation system and ensure flow of sufficient air and light inside the house.
As a medium sized breed, around 12 square feet housing space will be enough for each goat. But you will need to arrange additional 25-30 square feet playing space per goat if you want to raise them in stall feed system.
Feeding
Feeding the animals with nutritious food is the most important part of Sarda goat farming business. So, always try to feed your goats with enough nutritious foods. As a dual-purpose animal, the Sarda goats will require both grains and greens.
Provide the goats with vitamins and minerals as per the suggestion of an experienced vet. And always provide your goats with enough clean and fresh water as per their demand.
Breeding
The Sarda goats are naturally very good breeders. And natural breeding is generally practiced for Sarda goat farming instead of artificial breeding. Generally one healthy buck is enough for breeding 30-35 does.
Caring
Along with providing the goats with nutritious food and good shelter, they also require some additional caring for proper growth and better production. So, always try to take good care of your animals. Vaccinate and de-worm them timely and always keep good contact with a vet.
Marketing
Marketing goat products is not a problem and you will probably be able to easily sell your products in your local market. Goat meat and milk both have high demand and good value in the market. Although, you should set your marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the common steps for starting and operating a successful Sarda goat farming business. Hope this guide has helped you! Good luck & may God bless you!
