Bringing fresh faces to our #farmily is always an exciting experience, but it's a journey that demands a thoughtful approach.

Adding new animals requires more than just a warm welcome and cute pictures. Although those things are pretty high up on my welcome party ;-)

In this blog, I'll share insights from my own experiences on how to integrate new animals into your farm family seamlessly so they adapt well and everyone is happy!

Do your research

Before bringing any animal to your homestead, ask these key questions:

Where do the animals come from? Are they from a reliable source?
Will they adapt to your area and climate?
Will they get along with the current species of animals on your farm?
Do they require intensive care or attention?
Do you have the capacity to meet their needs concerning time, finances, etc.?

Pre-purchase Check

You can really do your due diligence by doing the following checks when buying or getting new animals:

Request thorough vaccination records to ensure the animals you consider incorporating into your herd or flock have been appropriately vaccinated.
Inquire about the farm's or previous owner's disease history. Various species are prone to multiple diseases, and you must be aware of any difficulties to protect your beloved friends.
You can examine fecal egg counts and obtain a history of previous deworming methods. Animals should also be examined for lice, mange, ringworm, and wards.

Provide adequate space and housing

Ensuring ample space and cozy dwellings is non-negotiable. Each species has its own space requirements and housing preferences, so tailor your setup to accommodate those unique needs.

For us, our animals need to be able to free-range. I believe it contributes so much to their health, well-being, and happiness.

It would be ideal if you could provide free-ranging space. But if you cannot, reconsider and determine if the animal would be okay to be in a cage or small area all the time (most would not be). Or at least be able to let them out for a short amount of time per day.

Donkeys need a shelter of approximately 4.5 sqm per donkey.
Allow at least 40 square feet of shelter space per alpaca.
Goats need about 15 square feet of indoor space.
The minimum suggestion is 2-3 square feet per chicken inside a coop.

These suggestions can vary depending on how much outdoor space the animals have and the harshness of the weather in your area.

Double the Joy with Pairs

Many animals thrive in the company of their kind (just like us!). Research whether the animal you're getting is a herd or a social animal.

If so, consider obtaining at least two of the same species to ensure companionship. Getting at least two of the same species has often translated into happier, more adjusted animals.

Donkeys, alpacas, goats, and chickens all need a friend. It is vital to their health and well-being.

If they don’t have a partner, it can lead to severe depression, distress, abnormal interests in other species, and severe aggression directed at "intruders," including humans.

Quarantine period

To prevent any unwanted surprises, I always practice a mandatory two-week quarantine for new arrivals. This is especially crucial for feathered friends like chickens and ducks, ensuring illnesses don't spread like wildfire.

I like to offer new birds lots of garlic in their feed and water, along with some cayenne powder, to help with any parasites or issues before integrating them with the existing flock.

Introduction through a fence

When adding new, bigger buddies, allow them to see each other through a fence during the initial weeks. This gradual introduction minimizes stress and potential conflicts and lets them familiarize themselves with each other.

Donkeys, for example, are territorial. I will always show them the new goats, cats, etc., so they can know these animals are for them to protect and not chase away.

It helps to interact with each animal individually to establish a bond and convey that they are part of the family.

Veterinary Care

Always have a reliable vet on hand in case something goes wrong with the new animal. You can also schedule a thorough examination for new animals, irrespective of their source. A vet can provide valuable insights into your new additions' health and care requirements.

Avoid Getting Too Young Animals

I learned the hard way with a donkey that was too young to part with his mom. Anxiety issues followed, and I wished I'd known better.

Young animals, if not adequately weaned, can face health and behavioral issues. Avoid unnecessary challenges by ensuring that the animals are at an appropriate age for separation from their mothers.

Maintain Existing Feeding Routines

If possible, stick to the feeding routines the animals are accustomed to. Consistency in diet can ease the transition and reduce stress. They are already nervous and upset, so try to minimize stomach issues.

If changes are necessary, introduce them gradually to avoid digestive issues. This leads me to the next tip...

Slowly Introduce New Feed

When changing feeds or hay, do so gradually. Abrupt changes can lead to stomach problems, especially when the animals are already adjusting to a new environment. Take the time to acclimate them to any alterations in their diet.

enough for everybody

Make sure that you have enough feeding bowls and water troughs spaced all over so there is enough feed and water for everyone. This will help prevent squabbling when it comes to feeding times!

You also want to have separate bowls for chicks and baby animals so they don’t get chased away by the adults. This will also ensure that they get the right feed they need during different growing stages.

Use Treats Sparingly

If you're working with larger animals like donkeys or horses, limit the use of treats to reward good behavior and not just a regular occurrence. The same goes for your flock.

Let the animals get used to being in your presence without expecting special treats. This will help prevent any unwanted behavior and make training them easier.

Integrating new animals into your farm or homestead is a rewarding but delicate process. By approaching it with careful planning, patience, and consideration, you'll ensure the well-being and harmonious coexistence of your diverse #farmily!

Always prioritize the health and happiness of your animals to create a thriving and vibrant homestead.

Here are more in-depth guides on caring for different animals:

A beginner’s guide to caring for donkeys

Caring for alpacas

20 Essential things you need to know about caring for goats

How to raise barn cats

Caring for chickens 101

A beginner’s guide to raising guinea fowl

Everything you need to know on how to raise happy ducks

Love, Annette xx

homegrown community

Want to learn more about keeping farm animals?

Do you crave a lifestyle where your time is spent among the kindness of animals?

Are you longing to return to the basics and experience the healing powers of soil under your nails?

Then our HOMEGROWN COMMUNITY might be for you!

There’s nothing like the excitement of learning a new thing - how to garden, how to make delicious recipes from your garden, or how to care for baby chicks.

But the truth is that without understanding the basics, these fun experiences can become a headache. Bugs eat your tomatoes before you do. Recipes don’t taste like you hoped. Those chicks get sick or worse, don’t make it.

We have been creating and curating content from people just like you who have already lived and learned, and we are excited to share with you the steps we took to find success so you don’t have to repeat the same mistakes we have made.

From food to farm to family and so much more, we find ways to share tried and tested ideas in your own kitchen, garden, farm, and home.