Frequently Asked Questions
Goat Questions?
Whether you're prepping for goat snuggles or wondering what shoes to wear, we’ve got you covered.

Getting Here & Getting Settled

  • Where are you located?
    We’re at Full Circle Farms: 3014 River Road, Johns Island, SC 29455. Visits are by appointment only. Directions and parking info will be sent after booking.
  • Is there parking?
    Yes! We have easy, free parking right at the entrance. If you see the goats, you are in the right place.
  • Are there bathrooms?
    Yes! There are accessible bathrooms on site, plus handwashing stations and sanitizer.
  • Is there seating available?
    We provide benches, picnic blankets, and shady spots depending on your experience. Let us know if you need accommodations.
  • What should I wear?
    • Closed-toe shoes are required
    • Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty, furry, or a little loved on.
    • Avoid dangly earrings or flowy items-goats will investigate.
    • Prepare for the weather
  • Will I get messy?
    A little, yes! It’s a working farm — expect dust, hay, goat fur, and maybe a hoofprint souvenir. We keep things tidy, but nature does her thing.

Therapy-Specific Questions

  • What is The Doting Goat exactly?
    The Doting Goat is a wellness-based business, not a therapy practice. It offers intentional, restorative experiences with goats designed to promote connection, calm, and curiosity. These wellness offerings are not clinical and are open to the general public.
  • Is this actual therapy?
    Some offerings are therapeutic, but we do not provide clinical therapy to the general public. Maddie is a Licensed Professional Counselor and occasionally facilitates clinical therapy for existing clients only.
  • What is a wellness experience?
    A wellness experience blends nature, animal companionship, and structured or unstructured space for emotional rest, without being clinical therapy. Think: grounding, goat cuddles, journaling, breathing space, or group reflection. It's restorative and meaningful, but not a substitute for licensed mental health treatment.
  • What if I want clinical therapy or mental health services?
    Please email Maddie directly at ml.risingtides@gmail.com to inquire about her availability or for further assistance in other community mental health services/providers.
    Please note that therapy services are separate from Doting Goat experiences and follow clinical intake and confidentiality procedures.

Goat Etiquette & Interactions

  • Do the goats bite?
    Nope, our goats are gentle and social. They are curious, so they will try to nibble on anything and everything if you do not set boundaries.
    Meredith, in particular, likes to like you, and Bucky is known to offer full-on hugs.
  • Can I pet or feed the goats?
    Yes! We’ll guide you on how to interact safely. Some sessions include goat treats — we’ll let you know what’s allowed.
  • Can I bring my dog?
    Sorry, no outside pets are allowed. Goats are naturally prey animals and become anxious with any new animals. Ask them about their pet chihuahua though.
  • Can I take pictures?
    Absolutely! Snap away and tag us @TheDotingGoat.

What to Expect

  • What’s the vibe like?
    Every visit is a little different — and that’s part of the charm. Some days are peaceful and reflective, others are energetic and hilarious. You might find yourself journaling under a tree… or laughing while a goat tries to climb into your lap. We keep group sizes small to keep things personal, but we let the goats (and the guests) set the tone.
  • How long will I be there?
    Most visits last 45–90 minutes, depending on the service. Check each service details for exact timing.
  • Will we be walking around a lot?
    Most of our experiences are low-movement. You'll spend time sitting, standing, or walking short distances across grassy areas. If you need extra support or have mobility concerns, just let us know ahead of time.
  • What’s the emotional vibe?
    Expect to laugh, relax, and maybe even feel a little emotional in the best way. Goat time can be unexpectedly healing. Whether you’re here to celebrate, reflect, reset, or just snuggle a fuzzy friend, our goal is for you to leave feeling lighter than when you arrived.

Booking & Policies

  • How do I book a visit?
    Specific booking details can be found on each service page. All visits must be scheduled in advance. We do not allow drop-ins.
    If you have any issues booking or need help choosing the right service, feel free to call, text, or email Maddie
  • What’s your cancellation policy?
    We ask for at least 48 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule. No-shows or last-minute cancellations may forfeit booking fees. We’re a small farm and plan around each visit, so your understanding helps us (and the goats) stay on track.
  • How do I pay?
    Payment is collected through our booking system. If you need an alternative method, such as Venmo or Zelle, please reach out, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
  • Can I book a private event or large group?
    We host small group experiences (for up to 6 people) and seasonal events with limited availability. Larger groups or events may be scheduled through Full Circle Farms, and we are happy to connect you for custom planning.

Goat Facts & Stereotypes

  • What kind of goats is the herd?
    Most of our herd are Nigerian Dwarf goats — small, sturdy, and full of personality. They’re known for their sweet temperament, playful energy, and tendency to pose for photos like influencers.

    Mr. Rebel is the outlier. He’s a mini LaMancha silky fainting goat cross, but let’s be honest — Rebel is really his own breed. He’s got the attitude of a celebrity chef and the grazing habits of a picky toddler. We love him anyway.
  • Do goats really eat everything?
    Absolutely not! They are actually rather picky and each of the goat's has their snack preferences. Rebel prefers weeds over snacks, BG will reject off-brand Cheerios, and Aurora is obsessed with strawberries. They will not eat everything, but they will chew on everything!
  • Do goats faint?
    Ours don’t! Fainting goats have a genetic condition called myotonia. None of our goats faint, though Rebel sometimes acts dramatic (probably because he is part fainting goat, tbh).
  • Do goats smell bad?
    Nope, our goats are clean and get weekly waterless shampoo baths! Only Bucks (intact male goats) can smell musky during breeding season. Our two male goats are wethers (castrated).
  • Can goats climb on you?
    Oh yes! If you sit down, you're fair game. Great practice in setting clear boundaries and saying no!
  • Do goats have horns?
    Goats are either born naturally horned or polled (no-horns). None of ours have horns as it keeps both people and them more safe.

Have a service-specific FAQ?
Navigate to each experience page or fill out the form below-
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