Goats are becoming increasingly common in the populations of domesticated animals. Spurred on by the ‘green movement’ and the desire to raise productive pets, an increasing interest in the therapeutic benefits of goats has been identified, particularly in combination with therapeutic gardening. While goats are frequently friendly towards humans and respond to human affection, they are larger than dogs and when agitated or frightened can “run amuck.” A recent incident in Australia calls this to our attention. A neighboring billy goat (aka Billy) was responsible for two spinal cord injuries, multiple cuts, and a sprained ankle when he became frightened and escaped his yard. The purpose of this study is to first identify and manage the risks related to using goats in animal assisted therapy. The second part of this study will examine the therapeutic benefits of goats in multiple environments.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/howaboutthat/7612632/Rampaging-goat-puts-three-in-hospital.html
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