Should I Board My Alpaca?

There are many alpaca owners that do not actually raise their animals on a day to day basis. Boarding allows an owner a great way to be involved in the alpaca investment. Even if you only own one alpaca, the option of boarding it can still teach you alot about the care and lifestyle of alpacas. You are also still able to take advantage of the tax benefits of alpaca ownership too.

By boarding your alpaca, you can relieve yourself of routine care, but still be involved with breeding selection, sales, showing, and marketing. All farms boarding contracts are different, but most allow owners to participate in farm events, vet visits, and frequent access to your animals. Some farms help with shows, transport, and stalling, which helps you save on expenses.

After purchasing your alpaca(s), you next important decision is where will you board them. Most farms offer free boarding for a certain amount of time if you purchased the animal from them. It is crucial the farm offers quality care, this helps in your success as an alpaca owner. Visit several farms and take notes.

Here are some important questions to ask while searching for the perfect home for your alpacas......

• How will my animals be sheltered?

There are several types of shelters that can be used for alpacas. Your alpacas should have access to a barn, lean to, or some type of shed. They should be able to shelter them from sun, wind, snow, rain, and humidity.

• How many alpacas will be together in a pasture?

The amount of alpacas in a pasture is important. Stress from overcrowding can cause mental and physical issues. Eventually, large herds in a small area result in inadequate nutrition, starvation, or parasitic infestations.

• Do my alpacas have stalls?

Stalls are needed to seperate sick animals or to protect them in severe weather conditions. The stalls should be safe and clean, with access to fresh water and food. A general rule is 3x6 feet per alpaca.

• How often will my alpaca(s) be handled?

Alpacas are pretty gently animals, but if they are not accustom to people they can be hard to handle. They need frequent human exposure and interaction to provide routine health care. This allows breeders to moniter the herd for any issues. A calm, easy to handle alpaca is easier to sell than one you cannot touch.

• Does the farm have an established veterinarian?

Most any vet has the general knowledge and skills required to take care of an alpaca, but not all vets are comfortable with alpacas. Look for a vet that has experience working with camelids and possibly has a relationship with your states university.

• How are animal records maintained?

If you own any type of livestock, records need to be maintained. The more details and accuracy the better. This is not only good for your animals, but it is also a great selling point to have up to date information and health history on any animal.

• What does the boarding fee include?

Every farm is different with their boarding contract. Some farms include everything such as all routine health care and vet visits for one set fee. Other farms have a fee schedule for services. Make sure to ask about all details and dont assume something is covered under a fee. Ask the farm to see a copy of the boarding contract, its a good idea to have it reviewed by a lawyer.

• How often can I see my alpaca(s)?

Most farms provide a very flexible schedule for alpaca owners to visit. In most instances they just require a phone call to make sure someone is available. Make sure to discuss all of your needs when you visit each farm to find the perfect match.