Steps to Take if a Stray Goat Wanders into Your Tennessee Yard

Tennessee - Finding a stray goat in your yard in Tennessee might be unexpected, but it’s important to know the steps to take to ensure the animal's safety and help it return home. Here’s a guide on what to do if you find a stray goat or any other lost pet in your Tennessee yard.

Photo byDalle 3

1. Secure the Animal and Ensure Safety

First, make sure both you and the goat are safe. If the goat is calm and not aggressive, try to secure it in a fenced area or using a temporary barrier like a rope or leash. Goats are known to be curious and can be quite friendly, but they can also be skittish if they feel threatened. Make sure to approach the goat slowly and calmly to avoid startling it​(

Best Friends - Save Them All).

2. Check for Identification

Once the goat is secured, look for any visible identification, such as a tag on a collar. This tag might have the owner’s contact information or an ID number. If there is no tag, the next step is to have the goat scanned for a microchip at a local veterinarian’s office or an animal shelter. Most vets and shelters offer this service for free or at a low cost​(

American Humane).

3. Contact Local Authorities

In Tennessee, contacting local animal control or a humane society is a critical step. They can guide you on the next steps, which may include taking the goat to a shelter or arranging for its pickup. For instance, in Nashville/Davidson County, you should contact Metro Animal Care and Control at (615) 862-7928 as they are responsible for handling lost and found animals in the area​(

Nashville Humane Association).

4. Spread the Word Locally and Online

It’s essential to notify your neighbors about the found goat. You can put up posters around your neighborhood and nearby farms, especially in rural areas where goats are more commonly kept as livestock. Use neon signs for visibility and make sure to include a photo of the goat and your contact information​(

Nashville Humane Association).

Additionally, use social media to your advantage. Post about the found goat on local community groups on Facebook, Nextdoor, and other social media platforms. This increases the chance of reaching the goat’s owner quickly. Websites like Paw Boost and Lost My Doggie also have sections for lost and found pets and can be useful in spreading the word​(

Nashville Humane Association,American Humane).

5. Consider Temporary Care

If you are willing and able, you may consider providing temporary care for the goat. Keep in mind that goats require specific care, including a secure area where they cannot escape, fresh water, and appropriate food. Goats are herd animals, so they may be stressed if they are alone, and having another goat or a friendly animal nearby could help calm them down​(

Best Friends - Save Them All).

6. Consult a Veterinarian

If the goat seems injured or unwell, take it to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Even if the goat appears healthy, it’s a good idea to have it checked for any health issues, especially if it has been roaming around for a while without food or water​(

Best Friends - Save Them All).

7. Legal Considerations

Be aware of the legal responsibilities in your area. In Tennessee, animals found without identification must be held for a specific period before they can be legally adopted out or rehomed. For instance, the stray hold period for an animal without identification is typically 3 days, while it is 7 days for an animal with identification. During this time, the original owner has the right to claim their pet​(

Nashville Humane Association).

8. Final Steps

If the goat's owner does not come forward within the hold period, you can decide whether to keep the goat, rehome it, or have it placed for adoption through a local rescue organization or shelter. Always check with local authorities and animal control for specific guidelines on handling stray animals in your area​(

Nashville Humane Association,American Humane).

By following these steps, you can help ensure the stray goat in your yard is safely returned to its owner or finds a new home. Remember, quick action and community involvement are key to reuniting lost pets with their families.