Back 40 Fainters

Back 40 Fainters is a breeder of fainting (myotonic) goats in Sweetwater, TN, Monroe County and the Great Smoky Mountains near Knoxville. With more than a decade of experience under Bradley Paul’s guidance, the herd participates in health screenings for CAE and CL through the American Goat Society.

During winter the goats reside in climate controlled barns and in spring and summer they move to rotational pastures with natural shade. Each kid is handled daily to build familiarity with people and support smooth transitions to new environments. A recent review noted the herd’s sound structure and calm temperament.

Breeding focuses on maintaining natural hardiness and the characteristic myotonic response without compromising a cooperative attitude. Records are kept electronically to trace lineage and performance across multiple generations. Owners often mention the goats’ manageable size and gentle nature as key factors for a balanced small-farm setup.