If you are in the market to adopt a goat, the MSPCA wants to know.

A Western Massachusetts farmer, who became overwhelmed by how quickly the animals were reproducing, surrendered 46 goats to the rescue agency earlier this month.

The animals are currently being cared for at the MSPCA-Nevins Farm in Methuen, but the agency is urgently seeking adoptive homes for the goats. Gia Barss, barn manager at the farm, said it is one of the largest goat surrenders the MSPCA has ever handled. Barss has been “working nonstop to settle the goats into temporary living situations,” according to the MSPCA.

The goats are settling into their new living quarters at Nevins Farm. —MSPCA-Angell


The diversity of the herd is also unique — a collection of Alpine, Angora, and Pygmy mixes that range from pregnant females, to nursing babies (kids), to adults over 5 years old.

Many of the goats tested positive for coccidia, a highly contagious bacteria that causes intestinal upset, and parasitic infections like tape and whip worms, according to the MSPCA. They were kept in quarantine for a week and are responding to treatment. Nevins Farm will likely spend over $3,000 providing medical care and housing for the animals, the MSPCA said.

“Despite these ailments—which are not uncommon when a population of herd animals like goats is allowed to grow unchecked—they are generally well socialized and friendly animals,” Barss said in a statement.

Interested adopters should have experience with goat care and socialization.

“Goats are herd animals and do much better with friends of their own kind—or even the company of ponies or other herd animals,” Barss said. “We also hope to adopt out many of these goats in pairs or groups.”