The head of the Veterinary Guidance Department at the Ministry of Environment branch in Al-Ahsa, Dr. Yassin Al-Ramadan, revealed to “Okaz” 100 kennels for the breeding of what is called “dwarf goats” in Al-Ahsa Governorate, including 35 kennels in the town of Al-Mutaifi, indicating that dwarf goats have become a pet alternative for dogs and cats in homes. Their prices recorded a significant increase, ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 riyals, and their species varied into three, the American dwarf, characterized by short stature and one color, the multi-colored Czech goats, and the German goats, whose colors ranged between white and black. Al-Ramadan reported that raising sheep in general and goats in particular is a productive project with quick feasibility due to the speed of the breeding process, as it has a high reproductive rate, which achieves a high percentage of profits in a short time. Al-Ramadan, who was speaking at the first educational forum for dwarf goats in the town of Al-Mutaifi in Al-Ahsa, explained that the dwarf goat is a friendly animal that is easy to carry because of its small size and length, which does not exceed 60 cm. It has beautiful colors, is easy to raise and train, and does not pose a threat to children. As a pet, it has recently made many people accept its acquisition, as evidenced by the volume of its frequent auctions in the province.
Regarding the specifications of dwarf goats, the head of the Veterinary Guidance Department at the Ministry of Environment branch in Al-Ahsa explained that it is distinguished by the small, harmonious eyes that tend to be blue, and the soft short fur is multi-colored, and the common colors are golden and brown, and it often contains white markings, and it has a concave or straight face and ears. upright
Al-Ramadan indicated that there are multiple associations for owners of dwarf goats in Saudi Arabia, including one in Al-Ahsa, and others in Al-Qassim and Al-Kharj. There are also multiple festivals and forums for them in the Kingdom and the Gulf countries, including the Cattle Festival in Hafar Al-Batin, and the Cooperative Society for Livestock in Buraidah has approved arbitration committees and a chapter for the Association. Dwarf goat owners for all regions and judges were nominated for their competitions.
Al-Ramadan pointed out that the Animal Production Department of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture obliges all animal breeders to obtain health certificates for animals, including dwarf goats, to prove that they are free from diseases and have taken the required immunizations.
Jassim Al-Aboud (Al-Ahsa) @aboudjas