Dehorning the mature goat.

Surgical techniques for dehorning the mature goat utilized combinations of sedation and local anesthesia. Numerous factors were considered before surgery was performed. Use of Barne's calf dehorners, tube-type calf dehorners, and elastrator bands are contraindicated in the goat due to the anatomic structure of the frontal sinus. Dehorning female goats late in gestation can induce aboriton; male goats used for breeding should be dehorned well in advance of the breeding season. Owners should be advised that dehorning can be temporatily debilitating to the goat and can alter a goat's social status within a herd.