Cottonwood Animal Hospital

              Alpaca Services:

Progesterone test-

During pregnancy, the placenta produces high levels of progesterone, starting near the end of the first trimester and continuing until the baby is born. Test 30 days post breeding.

Fighting teeth-

An alpaca’s teeth grow continuously for about the first 8 years of the alpaca’s life, then the growth will slow down considerably. Fighting teeth will erupt at about 3 years of age, it is good to do a routine check on your breeding males, clip the fighting teeth, to make sure you avoid any potential problems.

Reproduction-

Alpaca’s do not come into heat. They are induced ovulators and can be bred year round. Ovulation occurs up to 26 hours after the mating. To increase the chance of conception, the same pair will often be reintroduced every few days. In subsequent presentations, the female will reject the male if she is pregnant. If any problems occur while giving birth please call as soon as possible and talk to a doctor.

Parasite Control-

There are a number of effective products that will rid alpacas of internal parasites. These include Ivomectin, Ivomectin Plus, Valbazen and Panacur. Diarrhea may be a sign of parasite problems. Some breeders deworm on a regular schedule, others deworm when parasites are detected. You should consult your veterinarian to determine what deworming protocol is appropriate for your herd. Parasites in alpaca can cause malnutrition, weight loss, conception problems, and result in illness.

Microchip-

We have AVID microchip in which we have had success in using. If you are interested in getting your alpaca microchipped please feel free to call us.

Plasma transfers/IGG and bloodwork-

Reproductive health – It is recommended to test your new crias’s IGG level at 24-48 hours post birth. The passage of protective immoglubolins from dam to cria is essential to provide essential immunity to disease. A cria my appear and act quite healthy when in fact their IGG is low or non-existent. Such crias can be transfused with llama plasma, a highly successful procedure, to provide them immunity protection. IGG testing is also required for early insurance coverage.

See under Equine services….

Dr. Larry Mages is a knowledgeable camelid veterinarian and provides excellent care to your alpacas, as well as help to owners in areas of herd management, neo-natal care, reproduction, nutrition, wellness programs, birthing and much more.