I have only been milking for one month and I think I am finally getting to the point I can say I can milk a goat.
Yesterday marked the first time I was able to get Molly onto the stanchion and go through the whole milking process with just one person, so I was excited about that. The first time it took three people and I was a little worried! But yesterday she hopped up there nice as you please.
But I had to learn the little tricks. I found Molly will not jump on the stanchion if people are looking at her. But yesterday I turned and was doing stuff at the sink with my back turned and she felt comfortable jumping up there. I guess she doesn't like me staring at her while she does it! I was trying to watch and make sure she didn't hurt herself getting up there but instead that makes her scared.
I've heard that with most goats it's better to run your hand down their back, then their hip, then around to the inside of the leg....you get it.....then to the teat. Something about being grabbed without really expecting it gets to them. Hmmm..dunno why?
Those gals definitly got the nubian side of the ear gene!
It's OK that she's still got the runs. Give her a little more time and then we'll see if she needs a little TLC. She's probably under more stress - the fact that you have a few of her old friends is a great help. If it makes you feel better, try giving her a baking soda drench and B12 as been mentioned. Might perk her up a bit. Other than the runs, though, how's she doing?
It's hard to know if they're OK when it's crappy outside, I know. They just feel blah like we do.
The baking soda drench is just baking soda mixed with water. Everyone's ratio is different. I don't really measure out the baking soda; I just make a solution that's enough to get the baking soda liquid enough to go through the syringe. If it's too pasty, try adding a little more water.
As time goes on you'll learn their personalities and know if they're "off" or not. For now, just keep an eye on her and love up! They sure are cute!