CANTON -- The Cornell Cooperative Extension will host a “sheep and goat 101” course March 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the extension’s learning farm.

As interest in raising sheep and goats increases, the extension course will teach basic knowledge needed to properly care for such animals.

“For those interested in having livestock, it is best to start small. Sheep and goats are easy to handle and do not require a huge investment, making them a good way for families to start in livestock,” said organizer Betsy Hodge, regional livestock specialist.

“We want people to learn the best practices for caring for sheep and goats. Sometimes the simplest things – like catching and holding an animal - can be the hardest for beginners,” Hodge said.

Topics will include how to buy animals, breed differences, health management with veterinarian Carolyn Pierce, feeding management and the “how-to” of body condition grading, hoof trimming, tagging, tattooing and 4-H showing.

Participants will have the opportunity to handle sheep at the learning farm along with goats provided by the Rastley family of Gouverneur.

“This program is a great way for people across the Northern New York region to learn together and begin networking. Most of those who have attended this program in the past have started small enterprises. Some will start small and get bigger over time. This course encourages people to think long-term and make wise decisions at the start,” Hodge said.

The cost to attend the class will be $10 per person or $20 per family.

Call the extension at 379-9192 to register.

For more information about raising livestock visit www.ccenny.com.