Imperial Alpacas LLC

ROUTINE HERD HEALTH

On a daily basis we look over the following items during the time we perform routine chores:

BEANS:  As we scoop the poo, we check to see if the beans are normal, clumply or plops.  Clumpy poo can be a sign of stress and usually corrects itself.  Plops are a sign that someone may have an upset tummy, or some parasite (ie: do a fecal test.)

BEHAVIOR: Every herd member gets a 'once over' from a distance to see that they are looking good and appear content.  Cushing and chewing their cud is always a good sign.  Should one not be interested in grain or hay, they will get a bit more attention for further signs, such as their breathing, their energy, and any other unusual behavior that could be a signal for further investigation.

GRAIN:  We have tried several different brands and varieties of grain since we began raising alpacas.  We found some that caused choking, some that were too dusty, some that did not stay fresh, and some that didn't seem to be providing optimum health benefits to the overall condition or fleece of the alpacas.  Since 2010 we have been feeding a grain that is custom produced for another alpaca farm and it has proven to be a quality feed in all areas of concern.  No choking, little to no dust, no large pieces, easily breaks down when chewed, and is freshly produced so we know our alpacas are receiving the highest level of quality nutrition possible. 

WATER CONSUMPTION:  We empty and refill their water buckets at least once daily.  In extreme weather conditions, we make sure they are consuming enough water.  If not, we may add electrolytes (ie: Gatorade) to encourage more drinking if needed.  We have found insulated bucket holders which will help maintain water temperature (although water will still freeze in extreme winter cold), and also serve to prevent the buckets from being knocked over. The bucket holder also travels well in the trailer when hauling the alpacas.

On a monthly basis we perform the following herd health procedures:

Every 28-30 days we give each alpaca an injection of Ivermectin or Noromectin for the prevention of the Meningeal worm.  ~  This is a time when we can take advantage of giving them a 'once-over' by hand:

*  Body Score: Assess their body condition/weight

*  Check Teeth and Toes for excessive length and for any sores in these areas that may lead to a worse situation if left untreated.

                      SEASONAL HERD CARE

Winter Season:

Winters can be cold and pretty dreary here.  To help in the lack of vitamin they normally receive from the sun, we supplement with Vitamin ADE&B12 gel.  It only takes a small amount on their grain and it 'melts' on their tongues.  We will do this on an 'as needed' basis based on weather/sky conditions. 

Spring Season:

One of the most enjoyable times of the year!  We are looking forward to leaving the hard, cold winter and seeing the earth green up and the trees to bud their leaves.  More than that, we look forward to the crias to be born and our annual shearing day when we harvest their beautiful fleeces.  The expectant mothers will be placed in the 'maternity stall' to settle in for their birthing to take place.  Once shorn, it is such a thrill to watch the crias poke an elbow or knee from inside the pregnant dams.     

Summer Season:

We experience some hot & humid days here, which the alpacas are not too fond of.  We run fans inside the barn and keep it opened as much as possible for good air flow, but sometimes that is just not enough.  We pull out the garden hose and the alpacas jockey for the closest position to be hosed down.  We only spray their chest/under belly area and the pads of their feet to cool them down, as their thermal window is their underside.   

Fall Season:

During the Fall it's time to prepare for the winter.  The pastures will become dormant and the alpacas will rely on receiving more hay.  We pack our barns with the best quality grassy hay to supply them throughout the winter.  Orchard grass hays are great.  We try not to have alfafa in our hay, but if the there is just small amount, that will be okay.  Alfafa will provide them some heat, but too much will also add weight and can be hard on their liver.  Just because alpacas LOVE alfafa, does not mean it's good for them.  Alpacas are fussy about their hay, and will leave behind stems, weeds, and grasses they don't like.  So, it pays to be the fussy consumer when selecting the best hay for our herd.  It will also reflect in the quality of their fiber as well as their overall health condition.

 BEANS

 A 'plop' next to 'normal beans'

GRAIN 

A Sunny Winter Day! 

Cria just born

 SHEARING THE HARVEST

  Nice grass hay

DISCLAIMER NOTICE:

In no way do we practice veterinary medicine or attempt to portray expert knowledge in the field of camelid care. 

We are not advertising products for promotional purposes or for a fee.

This information is to share how we care for our alpacas.