Once every 30 days we have herd health day. This is a day where we handle each alpaca. We look at their toe nails, eyes, teeth, gums and fiber. We weigh each alpaca and they receive a shot of Ivomec (dewormer). This is to prevent meningeal worm which is carried by the white tailed deer and can paralyze, or even kill, an alpaca within a day.
Good record keeping is a must for any farm. We use a special program called AlpacaEASE, it helps us manage our large database of information on each alpaca. With AlpacaEASE we can track births, medications given, fiber analysis and a variety of other things. This allows us to print a report on each animal, this is important because it allows us to track any weight changes, neonatal care, weaning etc...
In a few of the photos you will notice a strange looking contraption.
This is called an Alpaca Trapper. This device allows us to more safely handle the Alpacas during toe nail clipping and other health management tasks. We put the Alpaca onto a halter and lead. The halter connects to the Alpaca Trapper and as you will see in photos there are several other connecting straps that restrain the Alpaca safely. There is also a thick, padded strap that is placed under the Alpacas belly. We adjust the straps so the belly strap picks the Alpaca's rear feet just enough off the ground to prevent them from having the ability to jump. Protecting us and the Alpaca from any harm.
Good record keeping is a must for any farm. We use a special program called AlpacaEASE, it helps us manage our large database of information on each alpaca. With AlpacaEASE we can track births, medications given, fiber analysis and a variety of other things. This allows us to print a report on each animal, this is important because it allows us to track any weight changes, neonatal care, weaning etc...
In a few of the photos you will notice a strange looking contraption.
This is called an Alpaca Trapper. This device allows us to more safely handle the Alpacas during toe nail clipping and other health management tasks. We put the Alpaca onto a halter and lead. The halter connects to the Alpaca Trapper and as you will see in photos there are several other connecting straps that restrain the Alpaca safely. There is also a thick, padded strap that is placed under the Alpacas belly. We adjust the straps so the belly strap picks the Alpaca's rear feet just enough off the ground to prevent them from having the ability to jump. Protecting us and the Alpaca from any harm.
Posie receiving her shot. She's such a good girl.FireStar & Laelia (Posies daughter) were in the room waiting patiently.
Corry weighing Posie.
Tightening the belly strap.
Posie all strapped in & waiting for her toe nail trimming.
So now when you visit our farm and see this funny looking contraption, you'll know what we use it for!
