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Alpaca Breeders

Alpaca Breeders raise very intelligent and approachable creatures that are extremely gentle. Here's everything you need to know about these breeders.

Alpaca Breeders - Breeder Facts Professional Affiliations: The Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) continue to oversee this industry. Other affiliates include but not limited to are: The Alpaca Registry, Alpaca Breeders of North America, AFCNA and many regional Associations throughout the world. Why Use a Breeder: An Alpaca Breeder would be the most knowledgeable person as to the genetic traits and any reproductive problems the Alpaca may have. How to Find: Premier Breeders Directory is one source to locate an Alpaca breeder in the USA or Canada. Another option to use would be AlpacaNet.com or the AOBA. What to Expect: Purchasing an Alpaca is a major investment. A breeder of integrity will insist on you answering many questions to be sure you are prepared for this undertaking. Some questions may be if you have fencing, if you have done research about the animal or the industry itself, or taken any courses. Alpaca Breeders - Breeder- Newborn Facts Average Number of Newborns Delivered at Birth: Usually one baby born at one time. They are called a cria. Alpacas can have one cria every year their entire life. Age To Be Sold: Normally after the cria is weaned which is around 5 or 6 months. Alpacas live to be approximately 20 years of age What to Look For in a Newborn: Straight legs Registry: The Alpaca Registry closed 1989 and only the offspring from registered Alpacas can be added now. Other owners may use Alpaca Registry, Inc. AKC Recognized Characteristics: N/A Expense to Purchase Newborn: Usually alpacas are not sold prior to being weaned but the cost varies as to type and usually females sell for more. The price can be range from $10,000.00 to $ 200, 000.00. As with any industry the market can go up or down depending on the demand. Dam and Sire Information of your Newborn: The breeder will have that information to give you concerning the parenting of the animal. Alpaca Breeders - Breeder - Breeder Concerns Breeder Reputation: You will want to check with The Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association (AOBA) to be sure of the breeder's ethicality. The Alpaca industry is growing in North America . It's important that you research before you buy. Pet Health: This animal is prone to eye infections. Normally this animal is pretty hardy even in extreme hot or cold situations. However, skin problems are another malady the alpaca occasionally suffers. Most of the time the skin problem can be attributed to mites over all the body including between the toes and even in the ears. There are several types of mites and remedies for this so a veterinarian would need to be called. Assurances: The breeder will guarantee the health of the animal and give you any background information to help you take care of your new animal. Many will let you stay a week on their farm to see the routine your chosen alpaca has adjusted to and teach you how to give the shots yourself to save on veterinary costs.
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