OSU works to meet alpaca care demand
CARRIE COPPERNOLL
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Published: August 10, 2009
The number of alpaca farms is growing in Oklahoma, and the number of vets able to care for the South American animals is growing, too.
Students studying at the
Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences are learning more about alpaca health, assistant professor
Dr. Melanie Boileau said.
The goal is to strengthen the statewide network of vets willing to treat the growing alpaca population. "We always try to teach our students to be ready,” Boileau said.
The effort is appreciated by alpaca farmers, said
Janice Robinson of Alpacas of Oklahoma, an organization of breeders and farmers statewide.
"With the increase in the number of animals in Oklahoma, we have an increased need of physicians who can be knowledgeable of them,” Robinson said.
More than 80 alpaca farms operate in the state, Robinson said. About a dozen farms were in operation in 2002, when the organization was founded.
Oklahoma farmers shave their alpacas’ each April and sell the fiber to be processed into yarn, clothing, fabric and other materials, Robinson said.
Many new farmers are older professionals looking to switch gears, Robinson said. Alpacas are a popular choice because they’re hearty, gentle animals. Guidance is needed from experts like those at OSU.
"OSU is very receptive in their veterinarian department to work with them (alpacas),” Robinson said. "The people that are coming out of there are able to disperse into the Oklahoma area and into the nation and be (alpaca) veterinarians.”
Alpacas in Oklahoma often face similar health problems, said Boileau, the OSU assistant professor.
For example, when alpaca farming first started in Oklahoma, the most common problem was heat stress. Now owners are more educated about preventing it, she said.
Another common problem alpaca farmers face is survival of alpaca young, known as crias, Boileau said. They are susceptible to infection and diarrhea.
They’re used to having babies in the mountains, she said, not in the heat.
Vets also check for problems typical of all animals, such as parasites, lameness and heart problems. The university recently received a chute for alpacas, so students and teachers can better examine alpacas up close.
Students have been willing to learn, which is a good thing, Boileau said.
"There’s a need for veterinarians willing to take care of the alpacas,” she said. "Definitely.”
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