Fainting Goats at Waggin Tailz Animal Sanctuary: Myths, Care Tips & Our Disabled Goats in Spencer, WV
Have you ever watched a video of a goat suddenly stiffen and tip over like it’s fainted? You’re not alone. “Fainting goats” have gone viral for years — but the real story is far more fascinating (and heartwarming) than the memes.
At Waggin Tailz Pet Sanctuary of WV Foundation in Spencer, West Virginia, we’re already giving two special disabled myotonic goats a safe, loving forever home while we build one of Roane County’s first dedicated pet sanctuaries. Here’s everything you need to know about these quirky animals, why they need sanctuaries like ours, and how you can help.
What Are Fainting Goats? (They Don’t Actually Faint)
Fainting goats are a heritage breed officially called Myotonic goats. The “fainting” is caused by a genetic condition called myotonia congenita — their muscles temporarily lock up when they get excited, startled, or try to run too fast.
- They stiffen for 5–20 seconds.
- They stay fully conscious and aware the entire time.
- It’s not painful and doesn’t harm them.
This trait actually helped farmers in the 1880s: predators would go after the stiff goats first, giving the rest of the herd time to escape. Today, they’re beloved as pets and therapy animals because of their calm, friendly personalities.
Fun fact: Myotonic goats come in both full-size and miniature varieties. Ours are the smaller type — perfect for our developing pastures in Spencer, WV.
Why Disabled Fainting Goats Need a Sanctuary
Not every fainting goat lives an easy life. Some are surrendered because owners didn’t understand the breed, others develop mobility issues from the myotonia, arthritis, or past neglect.
Our first two residents arrived with disabilities that made them unsuitable for typical farms or homes. At Waggin Tailz, they now have:
- Soft, level pastures
- Specially designed shelters
- Daily monitoring and enrichment
- Veterinary care tailored to their needs
These goats are the living proof that our sanctuary vision is already working — even in our foundational build phase.
Inside Waggin Tailz Pet Sanctuary of WV – Spencer, West Virginia
Waggin Tailz Pet Sanctuary of WV Foundation is a brand-new nonprofit refuge in Roane County. While we’re still in the build phase (preparing habitats, fencing, and infrastructure), we are already housing and caring for animals every single day.
Our mission focuses on three groups:
Canines – rehabilitation and lifelong comfort
2. Felines – indoor-outdoor spaces for senior and medical-needs cats
3. Farm animals – including special-needs goats, pigs, sheep, and more
We emphasize transparency: donations right now support daily feed, vet care, and future expansion. (Note: We are not yet a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible organization, but every dollar still directly helps the animals.)
How to Care for Fainting Goats – Expert Tips from a Real Sanctuary
Thinking of adding myotonic goats to your life? Here’s what we’ve learned so far:
1. Space & Safety
- Flat, obstacle-free pastures (they can stumble when stiff).
- Secure fencing — they’re surprisingly good climbers.
2. Diet & Nutrition
- High-quality hay, goat-specific minerals, and limited grain.
- Avoid sudden loud noises during feeding time (easier said than done on a farm!).
3. Health Monitoring
- Regular hoof trimming.
- Joint supplements for older or disabled goats.
- Watch for stress — they thrive on routine and gentle handling.
4. Enrichment
- Climbing structures, toys, and herd mates. Goats are highly social.
Pro tip from our sanctuary: Disabled fainting goats often bond deeply with humans and other goats — they make incredible emotional support animals once they trust you.
The Bigger Picture: Why West Virginia Needs More Animal Sanctuaries
National shelter save rates reached ~82% in 2025, but rural areas like Roane County still face huge gaps. Farm animals and special-needs pets frequently fall through the cracks.
Waggin Tailz is filling that gap right here in Spencer, WV. We’re creating a place where:
- Disabled animals like our fainting goats get lifetime care.
- Future rescues of dogs, cats, and livestock have a safe landing.
- Volunteers and donors can see real, transparent impact.
How You Can Help Waggin Tailz Right Now
Your support makes the difference between “build phase” and “thriving sanctuary.” Here’s how to get involved today:
- Donate → Every amount funds feed, vet bills, and fencing.
- Volunteer → Join our Build Site Volunteer interest list (construction, animal care, grounds work).
- Share Our Story → Post this article or follow us on Facebook.
- Join Updates → Sign up for progress alerts and future fostering opportunities.
Address: Spencer, WV 25276
Documents: EIN and organizational papers available upon request for full transparency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fainting Goats & Our Sanctuary
Q: Do fainting goats really faint?
A: No — their muscles just stiffen temporarily. They’re awake and fine afterward.
Q: Can I visit Waggin Tailz Animal Sanctuary?
A: Not yet — we’re in build phase for safety and animal stress reasons. Follow our updates for future open-house dates!
Q: Are donations tax-deductible?
A: Not yet (we’re working toward 501(c)(3) status). But every dollar still goes 100% to animal care.
Q: Do you take surrenders?
A: Currently we focus on our existing residents and planned rescues. Contact us via our Facebook page to join future interest lists.
Q: What other animals will live at Waggin Tailz?
A: Dogs needing rehabilitation, special-needs cats, and more farm animals (pigs, sheep, etc.) as we expand.
Join the Waggin Tailz Family Today
Our two disabled fainting goats are just the beginning. Every share, donation, and volunteer hour brings us closer to a full West Virginia sanctuary where no animal is turned away because of age, disability, or species.
Ready to help build something beautiful in Spencer, WV?
→ Visit [waggintailz.info](https://waggintailz.info) to donate or join our lists.
→ Follow our Facebook page for daily updates and goat photos.
Thank you for caring. Together, we’re laying the foundation for a future where every animal lives with dignity and care.
— Cameron Duncan & the entire Waggin Tailz Team
Waggin Tailz Pet Sanctuary of WV Foundation – Spencer, West Virginia
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