toys for goats to climb on
This guide will help you to DIY toys for goats to climb on that you can put in the barn or out in the pasture. Playgrounds are a great way to keep your entire herd healthy and active.
Use these ideas on how to raise dairy goats that are thriving giving you kids, milk, and entertainment for years to come.
When I think of goats I tend to get a picture of a group of toddlers jump and playing with endless energy. And, actually, that is not too far off the mark. Goats are active, energetic, avid climbers by nature and by providing them with structures to explore is not just fun for us to witness, but it plays an important role to their health and happiness.
Just as a playground is a part of a child’s development, a similar setup that encourages physical activity and mental stimulation is important for goats. Whether you’re an experienced farmer or just starting out with your first herd, this guide will help you get started creating an interactive climbing and play area that your goats will love for years to come.
Why do goats need things to climb on?
Having climbing toys for goats of any age helps to encourage their natural behaviors. It also helps relieve stress, and ensures they receive the exercise essential to their well-being. I also believe that when you have things for your goats to release some of that energy on throughout the day it helps to keep them a bit calmer when you are working within the herd.
Redirecting their natural instincts onto safe and sturdy equipment helps to keep those curious goats from trying to climb you and save your back in the process.
Happy, comfortable goats are more pleasant to be around and provide better-quality milk. Studies show that stressed or bored goats tend to have less productive milk flows and are even less able to withstand diseases. And that is a great reason to do what you can to give them things to do during the day.
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toys for goats to climb on
Many times I have seen plastic toys used for goats to climb on, and while that is an option, I feel they will not hold up as well under the constant pounding of a 75-pound Nubian goat. Instead, DIY options not only last longer but, I think, look more natural in a pasture or near a barn.
1. Using Tires
Tires are great to use because you can quickly set up a climbing area in just a few minutes.
Why We Love Them
Tires are an excellent starter material for DIY goat playgrounds due to their durability and versatility. They’re weather-resistant and can withstand the weight of several goats at once.
Benefits of Using Tires
Tires have a bit of give, allowing them to last longer than other options. Also, many homesteads have a stash of tires somewhere just waiting to be used, and a climbing area for your goats is a great reason to pull them out.
Where to Find Them
If you don’t already have a collection of old tires, you can call local garages, tire service shops, or even online marketplaces. Many times, they are willing to donate old tires just to get rid of them.
How to Set Up a Playground Using Them
- Stack Them Up: By arranging tires vertically and horizontally, goats can leap from one to another, creating a vertical obstacle course.
- Bury them: You can bury the bottom half in the ground making them a sturdy platform to climb.
2. Large Logs Play Area
I love to use logs because they are always available and free for the taking especially if you have a wooded area on your property.
Why We Love Them
Logs and stumps provide goats with a natural climbing surface, and one that looks great in a pasture.
Benefits of Using Logs and Stumps
You can find logs of all different sizes and widths giving endless options for a climbing setup. Also, wood can help keep goats’ hooves trimmed and their muscles toned.
Where to Find Them
If you live in a rural area, look for woods that you allow you to remove fallen timber. You can also call local tree services, or lumber mills as they may have quantities of logs or stumps available for free.
How to Set Up a Playground Using Them
- Arrange by Size: Begin with the largest stumps on the ground, then stack logs of decreasing size on top to create a pyramid.
- Secure Them Safely: L brace the largest ones with stakes or larger logs to prevent toppling.
- Addments: Nail or screw additional blocks to them to create variation and different levels.
3. DIY Playground with Electrical Spools
This is our favorite option for both us and our goats!
Why We Love Them
Electrical spools are durable and solid, come in a variety of sizes, and can make a substantial climbing feature for goats.
Benefits of Using Spools
The circular and stable shape is an ideal base for creating layers, ramps, and bridges.
Where to Find Them
Contact local power companies or electrical service shops. Some may be willing to donate or sell spools at a reasonable price. In our area, they even delivered them for free. We were able to get six spools dropped off, allowing us to build a large setup outside and two small setups inside.
How to Set Up a Playground Using Them
- Layer Them Up: Stack spools of differing sizes on top of each other, securing with screws or bolts.
- Create Platforms: By adding plywood on top of spools or stability boards, you can create flat platforms and walking bridges connecting multiple spools together.
- Ramp it Up: Using a longer board, you can create a ramp allowing all your goats to climb and play.
SLCG Pro Tip: Incorporate all three options to create a wonderful climbing area for your goats to enjoy!
Maintenance Tips
No matter what setup you create, there are a few things you will want to do to help it last.
Routinely Inspecting
Regular checks should be done to ensure that no part is wobbling or becoming worn. Materials like wood might need to be replaced or treated to prevent rot; metal elements could require rust protection. If using spools you will want to check for staples or nails popping out that can happen with wear.
Change things up
After a while, you may find your goats are no longer climbing on the toys you set up. Just like with kids, they can get bored with what they have. We like to move things around every few weeks to keep the play area more interesting to our herd.
For goats to flourish they need to have outlets for their natural behaviors. Having a playground with toys goats can climb on is a great way to keep them curious and busy.
Remember, the best part of any DIY project is the personal touch you can add. Your goat playground can be a reflection of your creativity and can even be an ongoing project. By tailoring your playground to your goats, you’re creating a space where they can be themselves and, as a result, grow healthier and happier.
