By Umar Nsubuga
Phoebe Kagambe Kusiima, a famous farmer in Rwentale-Kamata village, Kigoyera Parish, Kyarusozi sub-county in Kyenjojo district says the best way to ensure that your goats are safe, especially if you do not have a watch dog, is to make sure that at night they are secured in a building with no open windows.
“Make sure the door closes and locks to prevent animals from getting in and goats from getting out,” she says.
Although it might be convenient, she says avoid tethering your goat. A tethered goat is bound to attract predators like wild dogs.
“Instead of tethering your goats, build them a proper fence, and keep an eye on them or get a dog to watch them all the time,” she advises.
Besides keeping the goat from straying into the neighbours’ gardens, Kagambe says, a strong fence will help protect your goats from predators which will always hang around waiting for an opportunity to pounce.
“In case you cannot afford barbed wire or chain link fencing, a live fence made up of thorny plants can do,” she suggests.
In some communities, a fire kept burning through the night near the goat’s house will help scare away predators.
“Animal trapped can also be used, however, care should be taken to ensure they do not hurt other people or the goats.”
