What is a recommended method to keep a goat still for examination?

Holding the chin or beard, or lifting a front leg, is an effective method for keeping a goat still during an examination due to the anatomy and behavior of goats. By controlling the chin or beard, you provide a steady point of leverage, allowing you to gently guide the goat's head and restrict its movement without causing stress or harm. This method capitalizes on the goat’s natural responses and helps to calm it, facilitating a safer examination process for both the animal and the handler.

In contrast, holding the tail is not an effective technique, as it does not provide control over the goat's head or body, which can lead to unnecessary struggle. Wrapping a goat in a blanket may create a sense of confinement but could also increase its anxiety, making it more difficult to manage. Using a muzzle is generally meant to prevent biting or chewing but does not directly assist in keeping the animal still for examination purposes, and may not be necessary for routine checks. Therefore, controlling the head with the chin or beard is the most appropriate method for calming and examining a goat.