Pepto Cure For Ada, Too

Sad picture of a sad goat.

Ada talks. She chatters, and converses all the live long day. The only time Tasha speaks is when she is ailing, or if something like a fluffy bunny has crossed her path. So, the other night when Ada was speechless, and looking particularly large... I mean even larger than she usually does after a happy day of feasting, I was concerned. Alex and I talked about her round(er) belly, but we agreed: Our chatty goat would be wailing and bleating if she were unwell.

The next day she was as big as before, and standing next to her svelte sister, it was obvious something wasn't right. Compounding my concern: Ada did not peep, bleat, or speak, she did not move... not for the open gate, the handful of molasses infused oats, not for a cuddle. She nearly retreated from my offer to brush her, but that was the only movement she'd make, no matter what. She stood, forlornly, pitifully, and I listened for healthy clues from her full belly... but there was no gurgling, no rumbles, or belches. Something in one of those four stomachs was not working.

And that is when I recalled another helpful post from my go-to guide for goats and chickens, Terry, at HenCam writes about her flock of birds, and her Nigerian Dwarf goats, Pip and Caper, she shares all kinds of tidbits, fun things, and practical advice, and I knew just the post I needed to revisit: Pepto-Bismol for Pip.

Like Pip, Ada got an ounce of the pink stuff. Or, I measured an ounce, in our baster, and that's how much I attempted to get into her!

Maria was with me. She took pictures, and said soothing things to her dear goat. Good Ada. Take your medicine. And she sighed, and fretted, and watched for any signs the dose was working.

Tasha had to have a taste, but she's not a fan. Still, she did not leave Ada's side, and kept her quiet vigil.

The pink stuff. I got it everywhere, even down my back. With Tasha, Maria and I watched Ada, almost breathless. Would she feel better soon?

The first thing we took as a sign of improvement, was when Ada eagerly took a long drink of water. Her trough was full, but she was tempted by the pitcher I was bringing to the bunnies. Maybe her tummy was responding to the pink stuff, or maybe her taste buds were! Still, we took it as a good sign. At last, she was doing something. A few hours later she agreed to eat some Timothy hay... not with her usual enthusiasm, but she ate, and she was moving around. By afternoon we heard her bleat. I cannot deny, the quieter day did have some appeal, but we were happy to welcome back our chatty goat.

I gave her a second, one ounce dose at bedtime. The improvements were gradual, but steady and progressive, and this was a relief to see. After two doses, and two days, I'd say she was back to her feeling more herself.

And by the fourth day, she was ready to resume the fun parts about being a darling Nigerian Dwarf goat, like neighborhood walkies with her besty!

Fully mended, and I think she spies something tasty she'd like to eat!

Thank you, Terry, and Pip and Caper, too. From the heart of our tummies, we deeply appreciate your help.