Llamas in Peril!

The population of llamas has greatly increased and the market has greatly decreased. Farms now find themselves with older llamas they consider no longer valuable and a farm overrun with young male llamas they consider "pet quality".  As with many breeders of dogs, horses, etc. the goal to produce that perfect show animal has produced an over population of llamas now looking for a home.  The so called backyard breeder hoping to make a few dollars breeding inferior and related animals now seeking a place to UNLOAD them.  So what happens to llamas we once treasured?

• Trade days / Stock sales - where they are brought to the sale  in over crowded  trailers, staked out with no shade, and most are in very poor health. Being sold for $50 with no instruction on  the special needs of the llama. Some die before they ever find a new home
• Some being shipped to Canada to be processed for dog food
• Sold as "cute" one month old babies - who later grow up berserk
• Turned loose because "they were hard to catch"
• Traded time after time, sometimes abused in many different ways
• Misrepresented as "the perfect family pet"

With the help of many llama trainers, breeders and veterinarians we hope to share with you information that will help you understand the llama a little better.  They do have special needs and  can exhibit behavioral problems if not properly trained.

Today we will talk about: Understanding Llama Behavior Capture Concerns Types of restraints How to load after the capture Basic needs of the llama Some contact information where you can receive help   Neglected toenails a danger to the  health of the llama