Fainting Goats are know by many descriptive names such as Stiff-Leg, Wooden-Leg and my favorite, Tennessee Scared Goat.  History reveals that in the early 1800s a farm worker from Novia Scotia appeared in Marshall County, Tennessee, with three nannies and a billy that fainted.  The farm hand was a very quiet man and never revealed any information about his peculiar goats.  He eventually left town selling his four goats to Dr. H. H. Mayberry.  Fortunately, Dr. Mayberry propagated his new goats and tried his best, without any luck, to research their history.  Because of the unique traits, that are hereditary, he was convinced they were a breed.

Myotonia is the condition which causes Fainting Goats to stiffen and fall over when startled.  This condition lasts for ten to fifteen seconds, after which time the animal will rise and walk off stiff.  After a short time, the stiffness will disappear and they will walk and act like any other goat.  This myotonic state only affects the goats external muscles, so they are fully conscious and aware while in faint.

Even though Dr. Mayberrys original goats were black and white, today all colors exist.  Fainting Goats generally have large and prominent eyes, also known as bug-eyed.  Their temperament is very laid back and gentle.  They are excellent mothers and kidders.  Fainting Goats are easy to raise and the myotonis makes them easy to contain.  They can be a great meat animal (ours are pets) and are safe for children and neighbors.

I give the Fainting Goat and A+!!

Help preserve the Tennessee Scared Goat by joining The Myotonic Goat Registry.