Frequently Asked Questions

Buying a goat on Ruminary is simple:

1. Browse available goats using our search and filter options
2. Click on a listing to view all details
3. Use the "Contact Seller" button to message the seller with any questions
4. Once you're ready, you can make an offer or purchase directly if the seller has enabled that option
5. Arrange payment and pickup/delivery with the seller

When buying a goat, consider these important factors:

• Health: Look for clear eyes, clean nose, shiny coat, and alert behavior
• Breed: Choose a breed that matches your needs (dairy, meat, fiber, or pets)
• Age: Kids, yearlings, and adults have different care requirements
• Temperament: Especially important for pets or family milkers
• Purpose: Ensure the goat meets your specific needs (breeding, milking, etc.)
• Health records: Ask for vaccination and deworming history

Don't hesitate to ask the seller for more information or additional photos.

Yes, we strongly encourage potential buyers to arrange to see the goat in person before completing a purchase. This allows you to:

• Verify the goat's health and condition
• Observe the goat's behavior and temperament
• See the living conditions of the animal
• Ask the seller questions directly

Most sellers are happy to schedule a visit. Always meet in a safe, public location if not at the seller's farm.

To list a goat for sale on Ruminary:

1. Click "Sell a Goat" in the navigation and sign in to your account
2. Fill out the listing form with details about your goat (breed, age, price, etc.)
3. Upload clear, well-lit photos of your goat from multiple angles
4. Set your location and preferred contact method
5. Choose whether to enable direct purchases or offers
6. Review and submit your listing

Listings typically go live immediately after submission and review.

For the best results, include as much of the following information as possible:

• Basic Information: Breed, age, sex, weight, and color
• Health Details: Vaccination history, deworming schedule, any health issues
• Temperament: Personality traits and handling experience
• Pedigree: Registration papers if available
• Price: Clear pricing and any terms of sale
• Location: Where the goat is located and any transportation options
• High-Quality Photos: Clear images from multiple angles

Pricing depends on several factors:

• Breed: Some breeds command higher prices due to rarity or specific qualities
• Age: Breeding-age animals typically have the highest value
• Pedigree: Registered animals with documented lineage can be priced higher
• Training: Trained animals (for milking, packing, etc.) can command premium prices
• Health: Current health status and veterinary care history
• Market Demand: Local market conditions and seasonality

Research similar listings on Ruminary to get an idea of current market prices in your area.

Payment methods vary by seller, but common options include:

• Cash (most common for in-person transactions)
• Bank transfers
• Cashier's checks
• Secure payment through Ruminary (coming soon)
• Other digital payment services (Venmo, PayPal, etc.)

Always confirm payment method with the seller before completing a transaction. Be cautious of potential scams when using digital payment methods.

Currently, listing goats on Ruminary is free for basic listings. We may introduce premium listing options in the future with additional visibility features.

For buyers, there are no fees to browse, contact sellers, or purchase goats through our platform.

Note that payment processing fees may apply if you choose to use certain payment methods, and these would be the responsibility of the buyer and seller to work out between themselves.

Shipping live animals requires special consideration:

• Local Pickup: Most transactions involve local pickup where the buyer comes to the seller's location
• Transport Services: Some sellers offer or can recommend professional livestock transport services
• Health Certificates: Interstate transport typically requires a health certificate from a licensed veterinarian
• Costs: Buyers are usually responsible for all shipping costs and arrangements

Always discuss and agree on shipping arrangements before completing a purchase.

To ensure a smooth transition for your new goat:

• Prepare a Quarantine Area: Keep new goats separate from your existing herd for 2-4 weeks
• Gather Supplies: Have feed, water, shelter, and any necessary medications ready
• Veterinary Care: Schedule a health check with your veterinarian shortly after arrival
• Diet Transition: Ask the seller about the goat's current diet to plan a gradual transition
• Companionship: Goats are herd animals - ensure they'll have appropriate company