We have not applied for Organic Certification yet but we do endeavour to “walk the walk”. Our animals have the usual vaccinations but are not routinely wormed as we are concerned about the growing incidence of drench-resistant parasites in farming. Worm burdens are monitored by faecal testing and the animals are given a range of natural additives to their feed which will help minimise any susceptibility to worms. We are hopeful that current research into dung beetles will result in an alpaca-specific beetle that will stay with us, rather than going to live with the horses next door.
Bio-security
The Australian Alpaca Association administers a voluntary biosecurity programme, Q-Alpaca. Q-Alpaca monitors participating studs and establishes management practices that will minimise the risk of introducing disease to a property. The disease outbreak experienced by the equine industry in 2006, indicates that biosecurity will be an important part of farm management, whether a pet-owner or stud breeder. Wharncliffe’s Q-Alpaca Number is 08/0319 (MN1 equiv)