About our critters
At Golden Willow Critters we encourage each family member to choose a project to take on. Aaron's research led us to the wagyu cattle. Ezra got us started on goats before heading off to college. Samuel raises rabbits commercially. Abigail purchases angus cross calves from the dairy and raises them on our milk cows. Gideon is in charge of the dogs with some help from Mom. So far Jonathan and Walter are content to help where they can on any animal project as long as they get to get out and go with someone! Boaz hasn't expressed a preference yet. His theory seems to be if it's got fur, it's all good with him!
Wagyu calves
We can pick a wagyu calf from the angus herd just by noticing the difference in build. The wagyu are slower growing than the angus, but from a young age the difference in their musculature is apparent to the naked eye. The health benefits have been documented. The incredible flavor has been raved about. Now we want to bring this treat to you in an affordable fashion! Breeding wagyu/angus crosses since 2018, and increasing our numbers and knowledge of this amazing breed every year.
Border Collies
Whether you raise cattle or goats, or if you just want a very high energy companion, it's hard to beat a border collie for intelligence and enthusiasm. Our pups have found new jobs herding cattle, moving goats, running agility courses, and keeping families entertained during Covid lockdowns! What's interesting to me is the calls I get from their new neighbors asking when they can get a sibling. These puppies speak for themselves.
Kiko kids
Goats are a great complement to cattle. They love to eat the plants that cattle detest. Our goats have done a great job helping to keep the thistles from taking over our cattle pastures eliminating the need for herbicides! The kiko have shown to have great feet that hold up well to a life on irrigated pasture land. They require much less time from me for hoof trims and medical treatment than their boer contemporaries. Now to see what kind of kiko mamas we can raise!
Guardian Dogs
We got our first great pyrenees to protect our first goats. Since then, our guardian dogs have diligently guarded against coyotes, skunks, raccoons, and hawks. They even protect the goats from any cattle that get curious and come too close to the dividing fence during kidding. These dogs take their job seriously. And when the work is done, they are always ready for a good pat and a praise for a job well done!