Marketplace Safety Guide

Before you purchase any goat through HerdMart, follow these guidelines to protect yourself and ensure you're getting a healthy animal from a reputable seller.

• Research the breed thoroughly before contacting a seller — understand typical sizes, temperaments, milk production, and pricing for the breed you want.
• Ask the seller for current health records, vaccination history (CDT at minimum), and deworming records before agreeing to purchase.
• Request recent photos or a video call showing the actual animal — not just stock photos. Ask to see the animal standing, walking, and nursing if applicable.
• Verify that registered animals' papers are transferable and in the seller's name. Ask for the registry number and confirm it online if possible.
• Check the seller's profile history, reviews, and how long they've been on the platform.
• For registered stock, contact the registry (ADGA, ABGA, AGS, etc.) to verify registration status and confirm there are no liens or holds.
• Ask about the herd's CAE, CL, and Johne's Disease status if purchasing dairy goats. Request test results where available.
• Never purchase sight-unseen without video verification and detailed documentation.
• Have a veterinarian perform a pre-purchase exam for animals over $500 whenever possible.

Responsible sellers build a strong reputation over time. These practices protect you legally, build buyer trust, and help ensure your animals go to good homes.

• Provide accurate, complete information in your listing — breed, age, sex, weight, registration status, health history, and asking price.
• Include clear, well-lit photos from multiple angles, including the goat's hooves, udder (for does), and any registration tattoos.
• Keep health records current. Having CDT vaccination records, fecals, and any disease testing readily available builds instant buyer confidence.
• Be honest about any known health issues, structural faults, or breeding history. Misrepresentation damages your reputation and can create legal liability.
• Never sell an animal you know to be ill, injured, or untreated. If a goat needs veterinary attention, provide that care before listing.
• Offer buyers a reasonable window to inspect or have the animal vet-checked before finalizing the sale.
• Use a written bill of sale for all transactions over $100. Include the date, sale price, animal description, health statements, and both parties' information.
• For registered animals, complete the transfer of registration papers promptly after the sale.
• Screen buyers briefly — a few simple questions about their experience, facilities, and herd can help ensure your animals go to appropriate homes.

• Arrange visits to the seller's farm during daylight hours when possible — seeing where and how the animals are kept tells you a great deal.
• Bring a knowledgeable friend or fellow goat owner, especially for first-time purchases or high-value animals.
• Tell a family member or friend where you're going, the seller's name, and when to expect you back.
• Consider meeting at a veterinarian's office or fairgrounds if you're unable to visit the seller's property.
• If something feels off — the animals look unhealthy, the facility is overcrowded, or the seller is evasive — trust your instincts and leave.
• Take photos of the animal, any paperwork, and the seller's property before loading. This creates a timestamped record if disputes arise.

• Cash remains the safest payment for local in-person transactions.
• For larger purchases, consider cashier's checks or bank-to-bank transfers as a verifiable alternative to cash.
• Venmo, PayPal, and Zelle are acceptable for established sellers with clear profiles, but offer less buyer protection than credit cards.
• Never wire money to a stranger before seeing the animal in person. Wire transfers are irreversible.
• Be alert to overpayment scams where a buyer sends a check for more than the asking price and asks you to refund the difference.
• Keep all receipts, bank records, and written agreements for at least one year after any livestock purchase.

• Request a current Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI/health certificate) for interstate transport — most states require it.
• Check your destination state's import requirements before traveling. Many states require proof of negative Brucellosis or TB tests for certain animals.
• Quarantine new arrivals for 30 days before mixing them with your existing herd, regardless of health certificates.
• Transport goats in a properly ventilated trailer with appropriate bedding and space — overcrowding causes stress and increases disease risk.
• Never transport a visibly ill or lame animal. If the animal isn't healthy enough to travel safely, delay the pickup.
• Provide water during long hauls (over 4 hours). Offer hay to keep rumen function stable during transit.
• Verify registration papers match the animal's tattoos or ear tags before loading.
• If using a professional transport service, confirm they are licensed and insured for livestock hauling.

• Avoid sharing your home address, financial account details, or personal documents with buyers or sellers you haven't verified.
• Video chat before committing to a purchase — seeing the animal and seller live is far more reliable than photos alone.
• Ask for references from previous buyers or sellers. Reputable breeders will provide them willingly.
• Be wary of sellers who communicate only through messaging apps, refuse phone calls, or become evasive when asked basic questions.
• Report any suspicious listings or communication to support@herdmart.com immediately.

HerdMart is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and trustworthy marketplace. All users are expected to:

• Provide accurate and complete information in all listings. Misleading descriptions or false health claims violate our Terms of Service.
• Treat all buyers, sellers, and community members with respect in all communications.
• Never list animals that are known to be ill, malnourished, or in need of urgent veterinary care.
• Honor agreed-upon sale terms. If circumstances change, communicate promptly and professionally.
• Report suspected fraud, animal welfare concerns, or rule violations to our support team.
• Never post duplicate listings for the same animal or service.