Should i buy a llama

Having said that, the animal can be shorn naked to maanage the fiber aspect. Visit as many different farms as possible and observe…how do they treat their animals, how do their animals respond to them, what kind of vaccination program are they on, do the animals look healthy? Ask if you can see them halter an animal and pick up its feet. Ask if you can take it for a walk. See how the animal responds to a lead.

What kind of service after the sale do they provide? Any guarantees? What is included in the sale--halter, lead, breed back, delivery, follow up? Will they provide a contract? Things to look for or be aware of Although we all are drawn to this kind of behavior, when the animal gets to be about 3 years old it can start to become very mean. Remember these animals are livestock; they should not follow you around like a dog.

If they do, they have bonded inappropriately to humans and that spells danger. There are right and wrong ways to bottle feed a little cria. A good mother is worth her weight in gold. Light milkers can mean a lot of work for you. Also, ask if there are any genetic problems in the bloodline and avoid it. A reputable breeder will have all animals registered.

Six is the ideal but sometimes situations warrant a 5 month weaning. That question can tell you much about the breeder. Be skeptical if an animal is perfect. No animal is perfect; you need to determine which flaw s you can live with.

IF he says "yes" turn and walk away and never return. A llama should never live by itself unless it is in the position of guarding sheep. A lonely llama can turn into a mean llama. It is imperative to touch, walk, and halter a potential animal to purchase.

Pet Assure powers DVM Network, a brand built to support our participating veterinary professionals and help them grow their practice. Visit www. Reading time: 9 minutes. However, before you decide to keep a llama as a pet, you will need to have a basic understanding of this animal and its very specific needs: Determine if you have the right kind of property and accommodations to fit the needs of the llama. Llamas need plenty of room to run around and graze, as well as shelter to avoid extreme weather conditions.

Your property must also be zoned for livestock. Consider whether you would be able to own more than one pet llama. These animals are extremely social and need the company of at least one other llama in order to thrive in their environment. Obtain a reliable source for llama supplies, such as food and grooming accessories. Llamas require a very specific diet to remain healthy, and wool shearing, toenail trimming and general grooming practices are all a part of keeping your llama healthy.

Find a veterinarian that is familiar with the care of llamas. Llamas require a very specific schedule when it comes to vaccinations, de-worming, blood tests and health certifications. A qualified veterinarian will be able to show you how to keep complete health records, which is essential if you want to own a llama. Locate a reputable breeder from whom to buy your llama. Attending ALSA shows and competitions is also an excellent way to meet breeders and find out about any llamas they might have for sale.

Want to learn how to save on your llama's veterinary care? Click here. Related Articles. Delightful, Adorable Chinchillas. There's a Dragon in Your House! Like all livestock, llamas should always have access to fresh, clean water. In general, llamas are very hardy. They are less prone to illness than most livestock, but will require routine care. Grooming will keep your llama looking good, and feet should be kept neat and trimmed to prevent lameness.

Depending on your location, there may be other vaccinations your veterinarian will recommend to keep your animals in good health. A barn or other formal building is not necessary to house llamas. Their dense wool keeps llamas very comfortable in all types of weather.

They do well even in the coldest climate, and the thick wool provides insulation from heat and sun as well. Drafts are more dangerous than temperature variations, so llamas should have the same type of shelter provided sheep in the pasture. A wind block will do, and a run-in type of shed that lets them get out of heavy rain or blowing winds is even better. We often think about the natural predators animals have and then protect against coyotes and other wildlife.

However, a llama will provide ample protection from strangers as well. Make no mistake: a llama is an impressive discouragement. Dogs are popular guardians for property, but they can present legal problems for their owners. Whether it is right or not, you can be liable for the injuries your dog causes.

Llamas do their job, in most cases, without actually hurting the intruder. Without an annual haircut, llamas and alpacas are at risk for overheating in the summer, Hassrick says. Look for a mentor situation," Hassrick says.

Hatley and Truman spent months visiting Dakota Ridge Farm before they decided to buy a llama of their own. Product Reviews. Home Ideas. United States. Type keyword s to search. Today's Top Stories. The Rise of the Cleanfluencer. Grafissimo Getty Images.