The Head Report:

The Amazing Graze 4-H Club’s Goat Clinic

The goat clinic, planned to follow the July meeting, was greatly anticipated by the children in the club. Especially those with goat projects. People brought their own and a few extra goats for those who didn’t own any. Pam Fath, an advisor for the Laurel Creek Ramblers, was asked to come and act as "judge." She willingly accepted the invitation and did a wonderful job working with the children.

They learned many of the basic elements of showmanship, including how to set up the goat to its best advantage, staying on the side of the goat away from the judge, leading slowly and keeping the goat’s head up, and last but not least, NEVER CROSS BEHIND THE GOAT! They also learned several maneuvers such as the side by side, or heart, and moving up or down the line and getting into position.

Many of the children had never shown a goat before and this clinic was a new experience for them. Everyone who participated had a good time and learned about exhibiting goats.

-Julia Havener-