Domestic sheep and goats

Domestic sheep (Ovis aries) and goats (Capra hircus) are small ruminants that may produce meat, milk, and (or) fiber. There is a common perception that needs of sheep and goats are similar. However, differences in behavior, foraging, diet, uses, and various physiological characteristics mean that general care, management, and facilities may need to be tailored to each species. People who care for these animals should be appropriately trained, understand the species requirements, and have good observational and communications skills to ensure that the animals are cared for in a manner that is consistent with their wellbeing. In many countries, and jurisdictions within countries, various laws and regulations govern animal management practices. Local institutional animal care and use committees (IACUC) and people using sheep and goats in research and teaching should be familiar with laws and regulations that govern animal management practices, and they should be certain that animals are cared for as specified in IACUC protocols.