Alpacas of Somerset Farm

Whenever I visit with other alpaca owners, ask questions, or listen to them discuss their ideas, plans, best practices, etc. I am reminded of something a participant said at an educational event I attended several years ago. It was a small event hosted by some good friends. At the beginning of the weekend the host asked this very simple question of each person attending…”What do you hope to get from this weekend?” One answer stuck in my head and I always remember it. The participant said…”I am seeking my own truth.”

This may sound like an odd response, however as you learn more about alpaca care and the industry you will find conflicting suggestions and practices and this can be baffling. There are many reasons for this confusion:
• The primary one is that alpacas are not part of mainstream livestock and considered a very young industry by comparison.
• As an industry alpacas have only been around in the United States since the mid 1980’s.
• The environment in North America is extremely different from their native South America. Breeding, feeding, and basic care has been an adaptive process through the years.
• There are no vaccines, medications, etc. specifically made for alpacas. All health products and protocols have been adapted from the cattle, swine, horse and small ruminants basic and emergency health care.
• A good example of this is one of the major changes to worming protocols is to not worm an entire herd on a regular basis. This represents changes in thinking from what was suggested a few years ago.

There hasn’t been much of a change in the “basics”. Most vets’ mantra is to observe, observe and observe some more. That means keeping an eye out for small changes in behavior, the way the alpaca is walking or moving, how are they lying down, etc. This is something you will learn quickly especially if you spend time with them. Which of course you will because they are so darn irresistible! During a ranch visit you may notice an owner observing their herd and making mental notes. An observant alpaca owner develops the ability to spot when something is “off” with an alpaca.

I know you will have a lot to think about as you explore the possibilities and responsibilities of alpaca ownership. In that process you are discovering there are many reasons people are offering alpacas for sale. Many are following the business model of raising and selling alpacas. Some tried that business model and are either refocusing or getting out of alpacas all together. There are many reasons for this. Here are a few:
• The market for selling alpacas using just the breeding and selling model has changed drastically since the downturn in the economy.
• Many who viewed this model as a way to “get rich quick” are finding themselves struggling and disillusioned. They have realized that although the alpaca itself is appealing they do not sell themselves.
• Many current alpaca owners entered the “business” as a way to earn an appealing retirement income. What many did not realize is that they needed to create a business model to support their expected outcome.
• Also, many alpaca owners are experiencing health issues and they are no longer physically able to care for their alpacas. This is indeed a sad situation and one that will pull at your heart strings.

No matter the reasons alpaca owners are offering alpacas for sale, your successful experiences will result from excellent mentoring. When you work with an experienced and vested alpaca owner they will help guide you toward the alpaca ownership model that works for you. Regardless of your beginning or evolving intent there are some basics that will help your experience/journey be less risky…emotionally and financially.
• Are the animals you are considering healthy? Do you know how to tell if they are healthy?
• Do you feel you will have the continuing support of the owners should you have questions? Especially when it comes to health or behavior issues. Do you feel you will receive good information from them?
• Keeping in mind that in general alpacas at best tolerate being handled, do you feel you and your children can eventually handle the alpacas you are considering?
• Do you feel the owners have a good understanding of or care about, the current state of the alpaca industry and how your goals could fit in?
• Do you feel you will have partners in the way of advice and support no matter what level of activity you choose?
• Will the current owners work with you and provide you with an excellent package of “starter” alpacas for your current goals. Will they be flexible in the way of pricing and financing your initial herd? The prices can be negotiated so don’t be afraid to ask.
• Can you get honest answers from other alpaca owners about what it is like to be “brand new” to alpacas and the part that alpacas play in their life today?

You are facing some critical decisions and it’s wise to take your time. We encourage you to continue “seeking your truth.” Some of the information you receive may seem conflicting. Listen with an open mind then make your decisions based on what sounds right for you, your heart, your belief systems. In other words, what feels right for you. What is your truth?