Things to Consider Before Buying an Alpaca

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	Things to Consider Before Buying an Alpaca

Things to Consider Before Buying an Alpaca

Thinking about buying an alpaca?  As the commercial reminds us, alpacas are very easy to love.  But as with any animal, alpacas should not be an impulse purchase.  Careful consideration should be given before investing in these delightful animals.  The following is a list of questions to ask yourself as you consider whether or not alpacas are right for you.

1.  Where am I going to put them? 

While Alpacas do not require a great deal of space, they do require some acreage.  You can keep between 5-10 alpacas per acre, depending on the terrain, climate, and grazing opportunities.  They prefer to spend their time out of doors, but they do need a minimum of a three-sided structure in which they can retreat from inclement weather.  Alpacas are not generally escape artists, but pasture fencing at least 5 feet high will be important to keep them contained.  A dog, llama or other guard animal may also be important to keep your herd safe in areas with predators.

If you do not currently have these kinds of facilities, it is also possible to board (or “agist”) your alpacas at another farm. 

2.  Do I have the time to take proper care of my alpacas?

Alpacas are generally considered to be very low maintenance livestock, however, they do require some care.  Some of the work involved includes keeping hay and clean water available, cleaning out the dung pile, clipping toenails, basic Veterinary care including shots and worming, and annual shearing. 

3.  How many alpacas can I afford?

It’s important to understand that alpacas are herd animals, and will not do well without the company of other alpacas.  You should start your herd with no less than two animals of the same gender and preferably three or more animals. 

4.  Do I have the knowledge and experience to successfully run an alpaca business?

If your primary interest in having alpacas is to bring their good natured sweetness to your home, then this question won’t apply to you.  But if you are interested in raising alpacas as a business investment, it’s important to thoroughly research what’s involved in being an alpaca professional.  Taking care of the animals is the easy part.  But whether you are interested in breeding females, offering the services of a herdsire, or creating a line of alpaca fiber products, you’ll need to understand the business side of things.  While raising alpacas as livestock can provide major tax advantages, it won’t do you much good if you are not also able to successfully market and sell your services. 

To get an accurate picture of what’s really involved in the type of alpaca business you are interested in, it is very helpful to connect with someone who is already running a successful business.  Seeing firsthand the different kinds of work involved will help you make an informed decision about whether or not the alpaca business is really for you.

If you are thinking about purchasing alpacas, the above questions are only a few that you will need to consider before committing yourself fully.  Take the time to meet with other alpaca owners and learn as much as you can before deciding.  Then, if you do go ahead and join the growing family of alpaca owners, your experience is much more likely to be a positive one not just for you, but for the alpacas, too.