TRAINING & SUPPORT

Owning alpacas is incredibly rewarding, but like any livestock, they require regular care and good husbandry to remain healthy and productive. Whether you're keeping two pet alpacas or managing a breeding herd, having the knowledge and confidence to carry out routine husbandry is essential. 

At Argentonnay Alpacas, we're passionate about helping owners develop the skills needed to care for their animals. Drawing on years of practical experience, we offer friendly, hands-on guidance that gives you the confidence to manage your own herd safely and effectively. 

What is Alpaca Husbandry? 

Husbandry is the routine care and management that keeps alpacas healthy throughout the year. Regular observation and preventative care can help identify potential problems early, reducing stress for both animals and owners. 

Good husbandry includes: 

    • Catching and handling alpacas safely 
    • Routine health checks 
    • Body condition scoring 
    • Toenail trimming 
    • Assessing teeth 
    • Parasite monitoring and worm control 
    • Vaccination programs 
    • Shearing preparation and aftercare 
    • Nutrition and feeding management 
    • Recognising the early signs of illness or injury 
    • Managing breeding animals and cria 

    Learning these skills will help you become a more confident and capable alpaca owner. 

    Hands-On Owner Training 

    We believe the best way to learn is by doing. Our husbandry sessions are practical, relaxed and tailored to your level of experience. Whether you've recently purchased your first alpacas or simply want to refresh your skills, we'll guide you through the techniques used on our own herd, explaining not only how to carry out each task but also why it's important. 

    Topics can include: 

    • Safe catching and restraint 
    • Halter fitting and leading 
    • Health assessments & body condition scoring 
    • Toenail trimming 
    • Worm egg count programs 
    • Vaccination planning 
    • Shearing day preparation 
    • Nutrition and feeding 
    • Biosecurity and quarantine procedures 

    Ongoing Support 

    Buying alpacas is only the beginning of the journey. Questions often arise long after your animals have settled into their new home. 

    That's why we're always happy to provide ongoing advice and support to our customers. Whether you're unsure about feeding, concerned about a health issue or simply looking for reassurance, we're only a phone call or email away. 

    Our aim is to help every owner enjoy keeping healthy, well-managed alpacas with the confidence that experienced advice is available whenever it's needed. 

    On-Site Alpaca Husbandry Services 

    We understand that not every alpaca owner has the facilities, equipment or confidence to carry out routine husbandry themselves. Our on-site alpaca husbandry service allows us to visit you and your alpacas at home, providing practical, experienced care in familiar surroundings. 

    Services can include toenail trimming, body condition scoring, routine health checks, vaccinations, parasite management and other general husbandry tasks. We can also work alongside you during the visit, showing you how to safely handle your alpacas and carry out routine checks yourself. 

    Whether you need a one-off visit or regular support throughout the year, please contact us to discuss your herd and the services you require. 

    Interested in Learning More? 

    If you'd like to improve your alpaca husbandry skills or discuss training opportunities, we'd be delighted to hear from you. Whether you're a new owner or have years of experience, we're always happy to share our knowledge and help you get the very best from your alpacas and in return give the very best to your alpacas!