Who is taking whom for a walk? This is a fair question whenever several goats, constantly filled with curiosity, roam with us through the local forests and meadows. Families with children are certain to have a great time, with countless surprises in store.
Ever in search of fresh vegetation, delicious flower buds and juicy shoots, the two nanny goats “Lieserl” and “Anna” are constantly pulling on their leashes. Meanwhile, 8-year-old Hanna and 10-year-old Mathias are trying their best, with friendly shouts, hand gestures and energetic tugs on the tether, to direct today’s goat walk in a slightly different direction than usual. Otherwise, that marvelously tempting shrub on the edge of the path could quickly turn into a shadow of its former self.
With the goats, one thing quickly becomes clear: in combination with a gaggle of children of all ages, this walk is certain to be a memorable one. The goats’ constant curiosity and hunger to explore guarantee all kinds of capers and lots of fun. Farmer Maria Frisch, who accompanies the walk, dispels any concerns about possible dangers: “They are used to being around kids and enjoy the expedition.” When they pass by a whole herd of these horned creatures gathered behind a pile of tree trunks to get out of the sun, an effervescent white-fleeced welcoming committee rushes over to bleat their hellos. Ask nine pairs of eyes are ravenous for food and affection. A bit later, lighthearted pursuit scenes and short foot races play out along a shady stretch of forest as our own furry companions forage for food. By now, you will clearly realize that taking a goat for a walk on a leash is no easy task!
As Maria Frisch explains, she began raising goats and cows on her farm nine years ago. Now, she has 25 dairy goats there along with their “kids”. Goat milk is known to be very healthy and easier to digest than cow’s milk. Processing hard and soft cheeses guarantees the family a good source of additional income. And then, at some point, a visit to the farm by a class of children from the local elementary school surprisingly showed that walks with these cuddly animals were particularly interesting and enjoyable for the youngsters. Even though these fuzzy creatures are herd animals, they very much have minds of their own.
Family members are able to convince themselves of just how delicious products made from goat milk can be as they enjoy a hearty snack together. Cream cheese with apricot sauce or a spicy arrabiata mixture are certain to melt in your mouth, as is a cheese spread on freshly baked bread. That said, little Karl doesn’t seem to be quite as impressed.
Together with his big brother, Vincent, he prefers to go back over to the fence where the fun little baby goats are and watch them as they nibble away on the grass.
Times: year-round, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at 2 PM
Duration: 1 ½ hour hike and 1 ½ hour snack break
Meets: Töfenreut 3, 83379 Wonneberg
Participation: min. 6 people
Fee: € 16 per adult, € 12 per child
Registration: with Johann and Maria Frisch
Tel. +49 (0)8681 9408
johann_maria_frisch@gmx.de
