Useful Information

for

Prospective Alpaca Buyers

While research is great before making the investment in the alpaca business there are a number of things that you won't find in your research - at least we didn't.

First and foremost do NOT think you understand what appears to be common terminology. Phrases like, "live birth guarantee" or "reproductive guarantee" can mean vastly different things to each farm that offers them. Just as you should get clarification regarding financing terms for your purchase you need each of these perks and guarantees explained.

To follow up with these two examples - one farm's live birth guarantee may mean the cria is born and is confirmed alive. If it dies an hour later - the guarantee has already been fulfilled and therefore you as the buyer have no recourse. Another farm may have a live birth guarantee of up to six months - meaning if the cria dies before reaching six months of age you get the make up deal - usually a free rebreeding.

A reproductive guarantee can be simple verification that a female or male has all the requisite organs or it may go as far as to say if the female doesn't carry at least one cria to term you have whatever options the farm offers - up to replacement of the female with one of equal value. Some farms interpret this as "we'll give you a good deal on another female" if it turns out the female cannot get pregnant or maintain a pregnancy. The same approach applies to the males - if he doesn't successfully impregnate a female he can be replaced etc.

And not all farms offer these types of guarantees, but if you don't see one that you're particularly fond of - ask!

Always, always, always ask questions. Most alpaca people are very proud of their animals and breeding programs and put customer service and satisfaction first. It also saves a lot of kicking yourself later when you realize that you aren't getting the support you thought you had paid for when buying your animals.