And then there’s our newest addition, Rex, a young pup we rescued after he was dumped along the roadside. From the moment we brought him home, he showed the instincts of a true guardian and herding skills. We believe he may be a mix of Shepherd, Catahoula and Kelpie, but a DNA test will tell for sure. Rex has joined the rest of our guardian crew, learning from the older dogs and finding his place in the pack. He’s proof that sometimes the best protectors are the ones who find you.


The power of presence and education Predators are opportunists and our guardian dogs under-


stand that. Their scent, bark and watchful presence are often enough to discourage an approach. Over time, something re- markable happened. The wildlife in our area began to learn. It’s as if our guardian dogs educated the local predators, teach- ing them that this land, these animals and these boundaries are off limits.


That awareness created a natural balance, a kind of har- mony across the farm. The predators stay in their territories and our dogs rarely have to engage directly. This approach protects our livestock while preventing the unintended con- sequences of removing predators entirely.


Hunting or trapping coyotes, for example, can lead to overpopulation of other species — like foxes, rabbits or even deer (carriers of meningeal worms) — which can damage pas- tures, spread disease or otherwise threaten our goats. By letting our dogs maintain the balance, we avoid these cascading problems while keeping our livestock safe. It’s a win for the animals, the environment and the long-term sustainabil- ity of the farm. Nature, through patience and instinct, found its own peace.


Since increasing the number of LGDs to our operation, losses have dropped dramatically. Our goats are calmer, our chickens range more freely and even the cattle seem more relaxed. That peace of mind is something no fence or alarm system can replace. Predator management is a reality for every livestock producer but our approach at Not Forgotten Farmstead reflects our broader philosophy: working with nature, not against it.


More than workers — they’re partners


Our LGDs are more than just working dogs — they are trusted partners in the operation. Their vigilance allows us to focus on herd management, rotational grazing and the overall health of our animals. Whether standing guard by the chickens, lying in the shade amongst the goats or patrolling under a full moon, their quiet dedication never fails.


Visitors often comment on how peaceful the farm feels — and


that’s no accident. What they’re seeing is the result of years of trust, training and balance. The livestock guardian dogs of Not Forgotten Farmstead are living proof that harmony between predator, protector and producer is possible when we let nature’s instincts guide the way.


About Not Forgotten Farmstead Located in the heart of Georgia, Not Forgotten Farmstead is dedicated to raising quality livestock through sustainable, faith-driven practices. We raise goats, cattle and poultry with a focus on ethical care, regenerative land management and respect for every living crea- ture. Our mission is simple: to steward the land well, protect the ani- mals entrusted to us and ensure that no creature — great or small — is forgotten.


About the writer Cheryl Zuckschwerdt and her family operate Not For- gotten Farmstead in Georgia, where they raise goats, cattle and poultry supported by a dedicated team of ten livestock guardian dogs. Their focus is on harmony, stewardship and compassion- ate, sustainable agriculture. Cheryl is also an active board member of the Southeast Kiko Goat Association (SEKGA).


December 2025 | Goat Rancher 7


Predators have learned that this farm is off limits and confrontations are rare. Learn more about our herd, our guardian dogs and our story at


www.NotForgottenFarmstead.com and learn more about our Kiko herd at www.SEKGA.org. n


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