A lamb for a pet

[Warren Kiefer]

Does anyone have information whether or not a resident can have a pygmy goat or pygmy lamb as a pet.

[Sandtrap328]

Ehh, that would come under the livestock restriction in The Villages.

I can just imagine the posts on TOTV about goat and sheep poop!

I volunteered at the National Zoo in Washington DC and one of my "jobs" was to walk a goat around the zoo and talk to visitors. Let me tell you that goats have a mind of their own about where to walk!

The zoo also had 2 San Clemente Island goats which are now extinct in the wild. There are an estimated 500 of these goats left in the world in zoos and in breeding programs.

Google them to find out the reason. Very interesting reading.

[DonH57]

It may be a baaaaad idea.

[redwitch]

Guess you could always claim it is an emotional support animal. If you're nuts enough to want one, you could probably qualify.

[missypie]

Guess you could always claim it is an emotional support animal. If you're nuts enough to want one, you could probably qualify.

Good one!

[Warren Kiefer]

Good one!

Why has it become so difficult on TOTV to get a rational answer to a rational question. When fully grown, both of these animals are the size of a very small dog. They are as trainable as any dog. I would like to put aside what some think as humor and get a serious answer. Non serious replies are of no value to me. If someone has knowledge about having these animals as pets in the Village please share with me what you know.

[Warren Kiefer]

Ehh, that would come under the livestock restriction in The Villages.

I can just imagine the posts on TOTV about goat and sheep poop!

I volunteered at the National Zoo in Washington DC and one of my "jobs" was to walk a goat around the zoo and talk to visitors. Let me tell you that goats have a mind of their own about where to walk!

The zoo also had 2 San Clemente Island goats which are now extinct in the wild. There are an estimated 500 of these goats left in the world in zoos and in breeding programs.

Google them to find out the reason. Very interesting reading.

I would have enjoyed that job...

[sunnyatlast]

Why has it become so difficult on TOTV to get a rational answer to a rational question. When fully grown, both of these animals are the size of a very small dog. They are as trainable as any dog. I would like to put aside what some think as humor and get a serious answer. Non serious replies are of no value to me. If someone has knowledge about having these animals as pets in the Village please share with me what you know.

The way they graze (tearing grass out by the roots, or biting it off very close to the root line) can destroy the grass, leaving bare ground, and mud yard.

Where would it graze?

Sheep and goats as pets (http://www.sheepandgoat.com/articles/pets.html)

[DougB]

Does anyone have information whether or not a resident can have a pygmy goat or pygmy lamb as a pet.

Ewe have goat to be kidding.

[Bonanza]

Does anyone have information whether or not a resident can have a pygmy goat or pygmy lamb as a pet.

I am far from an authority on pets in The Villages. However, without referring to our actual rules, I know it states that an owner can have two pets.

I quickly read a few things about pygmy goats, and according to Wikipedia, pygmy goats are domestic animals.
They are not considered livestock.
I also read that there is a miniature version of the pygmy goat.
How cute would that be!!!

If logic plays into any of this, if they are domestic animals like dogs and cats, there shouldn't be a problem. Chances are, logic has nothing to do with it, though. Since I am not the last word, I think it advisable to check with someone with authority.

BTW -- if you do get one, please send me a PM and let me know. I would love to see it!

[tuccillo]

According to the NPGA (National Pygmy Goat Association) they are considered livestock. You should have received a copy of the covenants when you closed on your house. Dollars to donuts there is something in there about livestock.

This is just a quick overview on what it takes to care
for your Pygmy Goats. As
with the purchase of any
pet we recommend you research your choice before
you buy.
Pygmy Goats are considered
livestock and are often
not allowed within city limits. Pygmy Goats require
protection from the weather and a safe place to romp
and play. A small 8 x 8 foot shed with an attached
20 x 20 foot pen is adequate for two goats. Goats are
extremely vulnerable to dog attacks and must never
be staked or tied out; even horns are not adequate
defense against dogs.
Pygmy Goats need good quality hay, fresh water, a
loose mineral supplement formulated for goats and
may also need a grain feed formulated for goats,
especially if young and growing or raising kids


I am far from an authority on pets in The Villages. However, without referring to our actual rules, I know it states that an owner can have two pets.

I quickly read a few things about pygmy goats, and according to Wikipedia, pygmy goats are domestic animals.
They are not considered livestock.
I also read that there is a miniature version of the pygmy goat.
How cute would that be!!!

If logic plays into any of this, if they are domestic animals like dogs and cats, there shouldn't be a problem. Chances are, logic has nothing to do with it, though. Since I am not the last word, I think it advisable to check with someone with authority.

BTW -- if you do get one, please send me a PM and let me know. I would love to see it!

[Laurie2]

Does anyone have information whether or not a resident can have a pygmy goat or pygmy lamb as a pet.

I just had to look up pygmy goats.

According to the article I am linking here, Great Britain's Pygmy Goat Club says, "Pygmy goats should not be kept as house pets."

I don't know where someone in TV would keep a pygmy goat. They are classified as livestock. Sounds like they are supposed to live outside and have a little shed, at least, and a companion animal. Trying to do that in TV wouldn't be fair to the neighbors -- or to the goat.

Anyway, here is a short article about keeping a goat as a pet. Even though it seems to be discussing goats in general, it does mention pygmy goats. Same creature. Different size.

---I am not trying to get your goat, Warren. But this really does not sound like a good plan. I do not like to see people choose any kind of pet on a whim. But a goat in TV would be a real kicker.

Here are a few things to think about maybe.

Can a Goat Be Housebroken? | Animals - PawNation (http://animals.pawnation.com/can-goat-housebroken-3133.html)


You're welcome,
Reference Desk Laurie :024:

[Bonanza]

According to the NPGA (National Pygmy Goat Association) they are considered livestock. You should have received a copy of the covenants when you closed on your house. Dollars to donuts there is something in there about livestock.

This is just a quick overview on what it takes to care
for your Pygmy Goats. As
with the purchase of any
pet we recommend you research your choice before
you buy.
Pygmy Goats are considered
livestock and are often
not allowed within city limits. Pygmy Goats require
protection from the weather and a safe place to romp
and play. A small 8 x 8 foot shed with an attached
20 x 20 foot pen is adequate for two goats. Goats are
extremely vulnerable to dog attacks and must never
be staked or tied out; even horns are not adequate
defense against dogs.
Pygmy Goats need good quality hay, fresh water, a
loose mineral supplement formulated for goats and
may also need a grain feed formulated for goats,
especially if young and growing or raising kids

[QUOTE=Laurie2;1024546]I just had to look up pygmy goats.

According to the article I am linking here, Great Britain's Pygmy Goat Club says, "Pygmy goats should not be kept as house pets."

I don't know where someone in TV would keep a pygmy goat. They are classified as livestock. Sounds like they are supposed to live outside and have a little shed, at least, and a companion animal. Trying to do that in TV wouldn't be fair to the neighbors -- or to the goat.

Anyway, here is a short article about keeping a goat as a pet. Even though it seems to be discussing goats in general, it does mention pygmy goats. Same creature. Different size.

---I am not trying to get your goat, Warren. But this really does not sound like a good plan. I do not like to see people choose any kind of pet on a whim. But a goat in TV would be a real kicker.

Here are a few things to think about maybe.

Can a Goat Be Housebroken? | Animals - PawNation (http://animals.pawnation.com/can-goat-housebroken-3133.html)QUOTE]

Wikiipedia did say that pygmy goats were domestic animals but I did not spend any real time researching the animal. However, someone who has more knowledge about these goats than I should make a correction on Wikipedia.

No matter what -- they sure are cute!

[Barefoot]

Does anyone have information whether or not a resident can have a pygmy goat or pygmy lamb as a pet.
My deed restrictions specify two domestic pets only. Otherwise I'd have a pony :)

[jblum315]

I have heard on good authority from someone who wanted one sheep to crop his grass (instead of mowing) that a single sheep will pine away and die of loneliness. They are definitely herd animals.

[Greg Nelson]

I'd say forget the goats and pigs. Just how many dogs are in TV? Dogs rule the world!

[Pointer]

I don't know anything about pigmy goats, but i do know that the humorous replies and banter make my day. Plenty of room for both eh? :mademyday:

[mulligan]

Rack of lamb with a goat rib appetizer...mmmmmmmmm

[DougB]

Why has it become so difficult on TOTV to get a rational answer to a rational question. When fully grown, both of these animals are the size of a very small dog. They are as trainable as any dog. I would like to put aside what some think as humor and get a serious answer. Non serious replies are of no value to me. If someone has knowledge about having these animals as pets in the Village please share with me what you know.

I believe if the goat is a "kid", it can't stay in The Villages more than 30 days in a year.

[Mleeja]

Why has it become so difficult on TOTV to get a rational answer to a rational question. When fully grown, both of these animals are the size of a very small dog. They are as trainable as any dog. I would like to put aside what some think as humor and get a serious answer. Non serious replies are of no value to me. If someone has knowledge about having these animals as pets in the Village please share with me what you know.

You received the correct answer in the very first reply. "Livestock" animal are prohibited. In addition, out building are prohibited as well as fences. Review the deed restrictions you signed when you purchased your house. You can also find them online with a little digging.

You've asked a "strange" question and you should expect a little levity.

No need to admonish people.

[DeanFL]

Guess you've received your answer - along with some irrational ones.

I'll add that if you're still interested in a lamb, perhaps check with Mary as word is that she had a little one.

[graciegirl]

///

[redwitch]

Guess you've received your answer - along with some irrational ones.

I'll add that if you're still interested in a lamb, perhaps check with Mary as word is that she had a little one.

But she lost it and it still hasn't returned. She was afraid to call the radio station or post here for help for fear someone would report her. Rumor has it that someone cut off its tail thinking it was a blind mouse.

[Bogie Shooter]

Why has it become so difficult on TOTV to get a rational answer to a rational question. When fully grown, both of these animals are the size of a very small dog. They are as trainable as any dog. I would like to put aside what some think as humor and get a serious answer. Non serious replies are of no value to me. If someone has knowledge about having these animals as pets in the Village please share with me what you know.

As usual its better to make a single phone call and get the answer...........
Community Standards
Phone: 352-751-3912
Fax: 352-751-6707
Email Deed Compliance

However, now you know how to and how not to raise goats!

[birdawg]

I've heard that men in ISIS have them as wives.

[Barefoot]

Why has it become so difficult on TOTV to get a rational answer to a rational question.


I'll add that if you're still interested in a lamb, perhaps check with Mary as word is that she had a little one.

Oh Warren, I think you knew the answer to this question before you asked it.
You can't blame people for having a little fun.
There were lots of funny posts, but I LOVE DeanFL's response.

[Laurie2]

Guess you've received your answer - along with some irrational ones.

I'll add that if you're still interested in a lamb, perhaps check with Mary as word is that she had a little one.


Yeah...but, Dean, I think we better keep Mary out of this. Remember. Mary was a rule-breaker.

[Warren Kiefer]

The way they graze (tearing grass out by the roots, or biting it off very close to the root line) can destroy the grass, leaving bare ground, and mud yard.

Where would it graze?

Sheep and goats as pets (http://www.sheepandgoat.com/articles/pets.html)


I hadn't considered that!! Great reply.

[Warren Kiefer]

I am far from an authority on pets in The Villages. However, without referring to our actual rules, I know it states that an owner can have two pets.

I quickly read a few things about pygmy goats, and according to Wikipedia, pygmy goats are domestic animals.
They are not considered livestock.
I also read that there is a miniature version of the pygmy goat.
How cute would that be!!!

If logic plays into any of this, if they are domestic animals like dogs and cats, there shouldn't be a problem. Chances are, logic has nothing to do with it, though. Since I am not the last word, I think it advisable to check with someone with authority.

BTW -- if you do get one, please send me a PM and let me know. I would love to see it!

Thank you. It was refreshing to get a helpful response. I do know that both lambs and goats love to play.

[Warren Kiefer]

I just had to look up pygmy goats.

According to the article I am linking here, Great Britain's Pygmy Goat Club says, "Pygmy goats should not be kept as house pets."

I don't know where someone in TV would keep a pygmy goat. They are classified as livestock. Sounds like they are supposed to live outside and have a little shed, at least, and a companion animal. Trying to do that in TV wouldn't be fair to the neighbors -- or to the goat.

Anyway, here is a short article about keeping a goat as a pet. Even though it seems to be discussing goats in general, it does mention pygmy goats. Same creature. Different size.

---I am not trying to get your goat, Warren. But this really does not sound like a good plan. I do not like to see people choose any kind of pet on a whim. But a goat in TV would be a real kicker.

Here are a few things to think about maybe.

Can a Goat Be Housebroken? | Animals - PawNation (http://animals.pawnation.com/can-goat-housebroken-3133.html)


You're welcome,
Reference Desk Laurie :024:

You are probably right but they are so darn cute and play continuously.

[Warren Kiefer]

You received the correct answer in the very first reply. "Livestock" animal are prohibited. In addition, out building are prohibited as well as fences. Review the deed restrictions you signed when you purchased your house. You can also find them online with a little digging.

You've asked a "strange" question and you should expect a little levity.

No need to admonish people.

I originally asked a serious question. These particular animals are at times kept as pets. Many times on TOTV people offer what they think is humor when in fact it is sarcasm. I do know that pigs are kept as pets in large city apartments so I see no reason to term my question as being "strange".

[Warren Kiefer]

Oh Warren, I think you knew the answer to this question before you asked it.
You can't blame people for having a little fun.
There were lots of funny posts, but I LOVE DeanFL's response.

I DID NOT KNOW THE ANSWER AND MANY OTHERS ARE UNSURE. It seems to hang on the definition of these miniature animals. Are they considered to be livestock or domestic animals. It would probably take a court case to make a determination.

[asianthree]

I believe if the goat is a "kid", it can't stay in The Villages more than 30 days in a year.

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[Sandtrap328]

I DID NOT KNOW THE ANSWER AND MANY OTHERS ARE UNSURE. It seems to hang on the definition of these miniature animals. Are they considered to be livestock or domestic animals. It would probably take a court case to make a determination.

A fairly sure way to determine if they are allowed is to call the Compliance Office on Monday morning. Chances are that the answer is NO.

Yes, you could hire an attorney to bring your case to court. Remember, The Villages hires the best lawyers and it ends up costing you a great deal of time and money to still get the same answer.

However, this is America, so play your cards as you like. Best of luck.