When buying alpacas there are a few important things to keep in mind.
1) Alpacas are herd animals, you must have at least three of the same sex, four is better. They are not meant to be companions to other livestock. They are not pets.
2) Male alpacas should not be kept in the same pasture as females. Males will often try to continually breed the female which can result in uterine infections and stress.
3) You should never have just one alpaca.
4) Crias (baby alpacas) should not be sold without their mother before the age of 6 months, they should be sold with another alpaca they know. Young males should not be put in with older males until they are mature and physically large enough to be defend themselves.
5) Alpacas are not guard animals, llamas are guard animals
6) Alpacas must be sheared every spring, nails trimmed as needed.
It is important to buy from a reputable breeder, someone who has been in the business a while and has taken the time to learn as much as possible about alpacas. We are glad to have you come visit to discuss alpacas before you buy.
Carolyn & Doug Lilleyman
Kickin' Back Alpaca Ranch
Markdale, Ontario
519-986-3758
http://www.kickinbackalpacaranch.com
Check us out on facebook www.facebook.com/KickinBackAlpacaRanch
