A newborn alpaca at Velvet Hall Alpacas in Scotland was born with floppy ears, a rare condition that required treatment with tape to reshape them. The owner, Jean Macdonald, explained that this is the first time they have encountered this issue since starting the alpaca breeding program in 2011. The tape will need to stay on for about two weeks to help the ears grow into the correct shape. Female alpacas at Velvet Hall are not used for treks due to their long gestation period of over 11 months. The farm has seen an increase in their flock this year, with eight new alpacas added.
Velvet Hall Alpacas offers alpaca walking and visits for visitors who may not be able to go on treks. Only male alpacas are used for the treks, as females are not suitable due to the stress it would cause during their pregnancy and nursing period. Alpacas are typically kept for their fleece, and pet boys, which have lower quality fleece, are often chosen for walking. The gestation period for female alpacas is over 11 months, followed by another six months of breastfeeding. This year, the owner has seen their flock grow by eight members, including the baby alpaca with floppy ears.
The practice of taping the alpaca’s ears to reshape them does not harm the animal and is necessary to correct the ear deformity. Jean Macdonald reassured that the treatment is a standard procedure and has been done to help the baby alpaca’s ears grow into the right shape. The tape will be removed after two weeks, and the ears are expected to point straight after the process. While alpaca trekking is a popular activity at the farm, only the male alpacas are used for this purpose, as pregnant females or those nursing their young would find it too stressful.
The alpaca with floppy ears came as a surprise to the owner, as they had not encountered this condition in their alpacas before. The addition of the baby alpaca brings joy to the farm, with the owner noting that this year has seen a significant increase in their flock. Alpaca walking is a popular activity at Velvet Hall Alpacas, attracting visitors who enjoy spending time with these gentle creatures. The new addition to the flock, though requiring a bit of extra care for her ears, is sure to bring delight to visitors and staff alike with her adorable floppy ears.
Velvet Hall Alpacas also offers visits for those who may not be able to go on treks, making it accessible for people of all ages. The farm prioritizes the well-being of their alpacas, ensuring that pregnant females are not subjected to any stressful activities that could harm them or their young. The treatment of the baby alpaca’s floppy ears is a necessary step to ensure her healthy development and well-being. The farm continues to grow its flock and provide opportunities for visitors to interact with these charming animals in various ways, always putting the alpacas’ welfare first.
Overall, the story of the baby alpaca with floppy ears at Velvet Hall Alpacas highlights the care and dedication that goes into raising these unique creatures. The farm’s commitment to their animals’ well-being and the joy they bring to visitors through alpaca walking and visits is evident. The owner’s surprise at the new addition with floppy ears showcases the unpredictability of nature and the love and attention given to each animal on the farm. The baby alpaca with her adorable ears is sure to capture the hearts of all who visit, and her successful treatment reflects the farm’s expertise in handling such situations with care and compassion.
