Available Alpacas
Essential Alpaca Care & Management
Expert guidance for ensuring the health and happiness of your alpaca companions.
Companionship
Alpacas are herd animals and need to be kept in groups of at least three to prevent stress and loneliness. They should be kept in same sex groups.
Field Management
Alpacs tend to poo in piles. Males are less likely to have several poo piles than girls. Poo picking must be carried out regularly for parasite prevention.
Water
Alpacas need clean fresh water. Ideally troughs should be raised off the ground to prevent other animals using them. Alpacas also have a tendency to bath in their water.
Vet Care and Vaccinations
Annual clostridial vaccinations are required after an initial primary course. Ensure that you have a vet on hand who has camelid experience that can advise you on this.
Handling
Develop calm and safe handling techniques, spending time with your alpacas will assist. Consider a specialist course such as Camelidynamics.
Shelter
Provide a three sided shelter to protect them from harsh weather. Shelters need to allow daylight in as alpacas do not like dark enclosed spaces.
Grass and Hay
Alpacas forage so as well as pasture for grazing they need year round access to hay or haylage. Be prepared to add other forages or feeds in adverse weather.
Husbandry
Regular faecal testing for internal parasites is essential. Famacha checks alongside this will alert you to parasite problems. Do not worm regularly without testing.
Annual Shearing
Alpacas must be sheared annually for welfare purposes whether you are using the fleece or not. The ideal time for this is end of April to the start of June.
Observation
Spend time observing your alpacas to recognise their normal behaviour. This will help you spot problems early as alpacas are very good at hiding discomfort.
Fencing
4 foot stock fencing should be sufficient. Consider badger proofing in TB hot spots. Electric fencing is not effective for alpacas.
Hurdles are useful for handling.
Supplements
Alpacas require daily mineral supplements which are often provided in the form of a feed. Vitamin D injections or drenches are needed between October to April.
Body scoring
Regular body scoring of your animals is essential carried out on the chest, body and rump. The fleece can hide poor body condition and can only be found by touch.
Toenail trimming
Toenails should be checked and trimmed every three to four months. Your shearer may be able to assist you if you struggle to do this yourself.
Learning
Seek out as much information as possible from societies, breeders, vets and books. You never stop learning about these wonderful animals.
Get in Touch
Whether you have questions about our herd, are interested in purchasing an alpaca or need advice on alpaca management, we are here to help.
Email us at:
agdengreenalpacas@gmail.com
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