Goats on the loose

One of the most commonly seen animals here is the goat. Some goats are tied up or secured in a backyard, but most of them in the city are left to wander and forage for themselves. I find it a bit surprising to see something so valuable wandering the streets unattended.

And what's the risk of a goat wandering about on its own? Well, it could be stolen. That happens. It could be hit by a car; I once watched a young goat get run over by a car on a rainy night. It could also forage in a place where it shouldn't, and end up in trouble with the property owner. 

My friend and I were discussing this the other day as we watched a herd of 10 or so goats wander down the road.

"What happens if a goat eats someone's garden?" I wondered aloud.

"Oh, the garden's owner will take the goat to the police and file a lawsuit."

The image of the police station filled with random lawless goats tickled my fancy.

"So, they'll sue the goat?" I asked.

She laughed. "They'll sue the goat's owner. And if he doesn't come and pay, then the garden owner gets to kill and eat the goat!"

I suppose that's justice in a way. And fair warning to any would-be goat owners. If your property destroys that of another, your property might not remain yours.