PurelySuri 2015

PURELYSURI

™

Fall 2015 Ten Dollars

A PUBLICATION OF SUR I N ET WOR K

www.surinetwork.org

Find us on

ESP - The Sixth Sense for Suri Alpaca

We are your Suri Future today!

Joyce and Greg White Hillary Devin tinkerscreekalpacas@gmail.com hillary@shambalahalpaca.com 330-524-2077 303-588-2076

Jennifer Hack jennifer@triplehalpacas.net 720-733-2672

Message from the President The Suri Network Board of Trustees is pleased to bring you this 2015 issue of PurelySuri. Packed with educational articles and beautiful visuals, we are sure you will find this issue of PurelySuri to be invaluable.

PurelySuri is just one of several important educational efforts sponsored by the Suri Network: • Webinars – The Suri Network Board has a history of seeking input from members and then using that input in meaningful ways to benefit the membership. Members said they would like more educational opportunities, closer to home, and at minimal expense. We listened! In 2015 we began offering educational webinars for members and non-members alike. Webinar topics have included the importance of fleece shows and a two part series on Suri fiber. More to come!

• A highlight of every summer is the Suri Symposium and All Suri Fleece Show. This year, for the first time, the Symposium was expanded to three full days. Educational topics covered a wide range of subjects, including the growing fiber market, breeding for improved fiber, nutrition, marketing, parasitology, and acupuncture. Of course, the largest Suri Fleece Show in the United States was held at the same time. Participants were also treated to the second annual Suri Strut Fashion Show, demonstrating fabulous end-products from Suri alpaca fiber.

• SHIP – The Suri Herd Improvement Program continues to offer exceptional education for Suri owners as well as building our database for Suri EPDs. Those who participated in the SHIP workshops at the Symposium were able to experience fully the value of using SHIP data in their breeding programs.

• The Product Development Committee continues to offer exceptional education on all things fiber. The four-hour DVD Pasture to Process, Product to Profit: Getting the Most Out of Your Suri Alpaca Fiber is available for members and non-members alike. The committee presented over six hours of fiber and marketing education and hands-on workshops during the Symposium, to rave reviews.

A number of participants at the 2015 Summer Symposium attended for the very first time. Some were brand new Suri owners, and some had not yet made their first Suri purchases. What a great way to prepare for responsible Suri ownership, meet other owners and breeders, and fine-tune plans for their own farms. And, for the first time, the Suri Symposium attracted owners of huacayas as well. Welcome to all!

Please, enjoy the breadth and depth of this issue of PurelySuri. And please join me in thanking all those who volunteer time and talent to the Suri industry to make this magazine and all of our Suri Network activities a reality.

Warm regards, Patty Hasselbring, President, Suri Network

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Suri Network Board of Trustees Patty Hasselbring, President - My husband, Britt, and I own Hasselbring’s Harmony Ranch just outside of Concordia, Missouri. After falling in love with the exquisite Suri alpacas in 2009, we have built a herd of around 140 Suris. Prior to alpaca farming, I spent my professional life as a non–profit executive, focusing primarily on juvenile justice and children’s issues. In 1994, I opened my own consulting practice, Grants and Beyond, providing training and assistance to nonprofit organizations nationally and internationally. Today I am dividing my time between the barn and my consulting business, and love it all!

Jill McElderry-Maxwell, Vice President - Jill began working with Suris in 2005, and purchased her first two females in 2007. She and her family moved to Maine that same year so that they could afford land for their new herd-to-be. Ten years and setting up two farms later, Bag End Suri Alpacas is now home to over fifty Suris - as well as heritage breed pigs, multiple types of poultry, Nigerian dwarf dairy goats, BLM burros, and even the occasional calf. Jill has a background in the biological sciences and paleontology, and enjoys researching and educating about alpaca health care and other topics.

Andrew Reed, Treasurer - I am a 6th generation farmer and herd manager for Over Home Alpacas, where I

oversee 200 acres and care for 100 Suri alpacas. After seven years in the alpaca business I have gained extensive knowledge about alpaca health, nutrition, and pasture management. With a B.S. in Life Sciences from Penn State, I have applied my scientific understanding to our breeding program. I also have experience working with government agencies that funded the implementation of best practice management on our operation. Off the farm, I have recently taken half-ownership in a commercial glazing company that installs windows and doors in schools, warehouses, office buildings, and retail storefronts. As a newly elected, first time board member I would like to narrow our focus toward a fiber market. This should include proper education and increased participation in the SHIP and EPD programs as well as use of histogram, biopsy, and shearing data by all serious Suri breeders. This practice will assist us in making the best breeding decisions, ensuring future profitability, specifically in the commercial fiber market.

Alvina Maynard, Secretary - Alvina established River Hill Ranch in 2012 to further develop a sustainable live-

stock model for Suri alpacas. By developing relationships and attending training in the agriculture, textile, and fashion sectors, she has translated how to efficiently run a livestock operation to alpacas while being an ambassador for our industry. She now runs 90 head of Suris with a breeding program objectively focused on fiber production without sacrificing conformation. Every bit of fiber produced (even “thirds”) is turned into a product and sold. Alvina worked with her state government to allow alpaca to be processed for meat resale which has quickly gained interest in the local food scene. She believes culling to the terminal market not only provides an additional revenue stream to the ranch, but is necessary to create room for genetic improvement to further a sustainable fiber market. Her most difficult job and greatest joy is being mother to two young children and being married to Mr. Incredible.

Randy Coleman, Director at Large - My wife, Barbara, and I own Wings and A Prayer Alpacas. We started in 1998

with one alpaca and a borrowed llama. We’re now on our 3rd farm which is 50 acres with approximately 120 alpacas on the farm along with seven Great Pyrenees. We also raise the Pyrs and use them to guard our herd. Our focus has always been to produce seed stock and concentrate on selective breedings to produce the finest fleeces. We are very active in shows across the country and have positioned our breeding program to always be competitive, whether we have two or 22 cria born in a given year. Our farm store carries many of our own products either produced from our fiber or produced by the co-ops we currently participate in.

Given alpacas are our ONLY income, our focus is on helping to make the alpaca industry strong and to support new breeders. Along with the new breeders entering the industry come new ideas to move our great industry forward. I look forward to hearing from members with ideas to make alpacas stronger and more prominent in the livestock/fiber marketplace.

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Table of Contents

Features 10

It’s a Party! The Annual Shearing Festival at Odelia Farms

by Beth Brown

18

Drum Carding Suri Fiber

by Connie Blechle

22

What Can You Do With Coarse Fiber?

by Alvina Maynard

27

Crocheted Seat Cover Pattern

29

Keeping Alpacas With Other Livestock - Yea or Neigh?

by Diane Watson

by Jill McElderry-Maxwell

38

Where Did the Sun Go? Vitamin D and Rickets

48 53 54

So How Hard Is It to Raise Alpacas, Anyway?

Your Vet’s #1 Pet Peeve: Dr. Google

by Dr. Susan Tornquist, DVM

57

Suri Network Membership Directory

18

by Dr. Robert Van Saun, DVM

Mycoplasma haemolamae - Common and Controllable

Departments 4 5 9 66

10

Message from the President

29

38

Board of Trustees Statement of Purpose Advertising Index

54 6 PURELYSURI

Suri Network Statement of Purpose

PURELYSURI Fall 2015 • $10

Dedicated to the preservation of the Suri alpaca.

The purpose of the Suri Network shall include, but shall not be limited to, the following: To promote, through education to the alpaca community and the general public, awareness of and interest in, Suri alpacas and their fiber, and related business interest.

To promote the growth of the Suri alpaca industry.

To serve as an industry and marketing group to promote and protect the collective economic and legal interests of the Network’s members.

To organize and conduct, from time to time, a Suri alpaca event, which shall be open to the public and which shall further the purposes of the corporation. This event shall provide members and other participants with the opportunity to share with each other their ideas, encouragement, knowledge, and companionship.

PurelySuriTM magazine is a publication of the Suri Network. Statements, opinions, and points of view expressed by the writers and advertisers are their own and do not necessarily represent those of PurelySuri, members of the Suri Network, the publisher, staff, employees, or agents. Suri Network does not assume liability for products or services advertised herein. Suri Network reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising material.

No part of PurelySuri may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means electronically, mechanically, by photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior express written consent of the submitting author to which the article, photography, illustration, or material is copyrighted. PurelySuri assumes all work published here is original and is the work and property of the submitting author. All product and company names are trademarked or copyrighted by their respective owners. ©2015 by Suri Network, Inc. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A.

Publisher: Suri Network Design & Production: Jill McElderry-

Maxwell

Managing Editor: Jill McElderry-Maxwell Lead Advertising Coordinator: Margit Korsak Advertising Coordinators: Jennifer Hack and David Zappichi Contributing Authors: Beth Brown Connie Blechle Alvina Maynard Diane Watson Dr. Robert Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD Dr. Susan J. Tornquist, DVM, MS, PhD Jill McElderry-Maxwell Printer: Able Publishing Patient Print Guru: Steph Pride Cover Photo: Courtesy of Glenn A. Kerns, A.J.’s Alpaca Ranch ©2015

©2015 Bag End Suri Alpacas of Maine

Suri Network, Inc. P.O. Box 1984 Estes Park, CO 80517-1984 Phone: (970) 586-5876 Fax: (970) 586-6685 office@surinetwork.org www.surinetwork.org

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It’s A Party!

THE ANNUAL SHEARING FESTIVAL AT ODELIA FARMS

by Beth Brown, Odelia Farm Alpacas

When I tell other farmers about our Shearing Day Festival, many look at me incredulously and say, “Are you kidding! I would never do that! Shearing is such a stressful time for me.”

I always look forward to shearing day, and have found that “the more the merrier” is really the adage here. But first, I should note that we have always been a small farm with under 20 or so alpacas. So for those with many animals to shear, our methods may not work. But I do know that most of the alpaca farms in the US are small.

From the very beginning, I have wanted our shearing experience to be an educational tool helping others understand more about owning alpacas as well as running a successful business venture. Each year our goal is to have our entire herd sheared, with the fiber skirted, graded and ready for the mill by the end of the day. I knew that if I didn’t do it all quickly, then I would just end up with bags of fiber sitting in my basement, which is what a lot of other farms

10 PURELYSURI

seem to have as well. So I thought I’d share our process and maybe it might work for you too.

For specifics on the shearing process itself, I suggest you read the Suri Network’s Code of Harvest posted on the Suri Network Website. If you have never conducted a shearing on your farm, it will provide you with clear step by step instructions that are very helpful.

To market our Shearing Day Festival, we begin by placing a very small announcement in our local Southwestern electrical company magazine a couple months before the event. Our electrical company is a co-op so they are happy to help their members announce what is happening in their area. In the announcement we ask that those who would like to volunteer call to reserve a spot.

We do get quite a few calls from those who would like to help. I’m sure other similar community magazines or newspapers would be able to provide the same kind of exposure.

About a month out, I place flyers in all the local cafes, grocery stores and coffee shops where there is a community bulletin board. I also send out e-flyers from our mailing list. For several years I have appeared with two of my little ones on a local TV show that featured weekend happenings. I also place it on all the local newspaper calendars and on Ravelry for our local knitter’s guilds. We usually have 16-20 people wanting to volunteer, and that is the perfect sized group. Some folks come just for the morning, but others stay with it all day. And then there are another 2030 or so who just want to watch or sit on the deck and knit. I like to call it controlled chaos, but all are welcomed.

Volunteers are asked how they would like to participate. Would they like to help prepare the animals for shearing, by removing the hay and vegetation from their fleeces, or would they like to work at the skirting table? The braver of the two groups usually picks working with the animals. If a person has never worked with a rather stressed out alpaca, it can be a bit daunting.

Currently, we have volunteers that have come back several years in a row, and are now training the newbies on how to handle the animals and not get kicked or spit on! They also have developed their own techniques for removing the vegetation that really impress me. Two of our volunteers are “Sisters” from two different seminaries about an hour and a half away. This year they brought with them a friend of theirs who admitted he had never even seen an alpaca before. By the end of the day, he was well acquainted with the entire herd and knew them by name!

Continued on page 13

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The volunteers who work the skirting table have quite a task, but I have found that people who have never even touched alpaca fiber before can do this. I do a quick training with a grading book and fiber board. I show them the various fiber swatches and their respective micron counts. We practice looking at a staple on the board and how to spread it out so that you can get a good look at the tiny fibers. We go through how to skirt a fleece, although I must admit I don’t ask them to skirt heavily. Only if the fiber is obviously dry and brittle, do they remove it. I usually go through afterwards and remove what more needs to come off the fleece. That way I am not losing more than necessary.

The older kids love to handle weighing and measuring the fleece. They will weigh both the blanket and the seconds and then give me a total weight. The weights, staple length, grade and any comments are put on the fiber card and placed in the bag with the histogram sample.

Comments such as tender, or lots of vegetation, etc. are very helpful when I review the cards later. Those comments help me make better yarn decisions for the mill.

And yes, they then help with grading the fiber. What I appreciate about this process is that once they get the hang of it, they can grade many places on the blanket at once and come to a group consensus about the grade they want to give the fleece. Although some are new to grading fibers, I believe group IQ is at work here. The high and the low cancel themselves out and the group usually comes to a decision somewhere in an accurate range. I have tested this with my histograms. I look at what my volunteers said and then what Yocum McColl says. And you know, they are usually very close. For my purposes, a micron or so off is fine.

I like to call it controlled chaos, but all are welcomed.

This year I added noodling to the process, which I must say made it all so much easier, and more enjoyable for the volunteers. We used two boards - one to catch the fleece on the shearing table, and another to place over the fleece (like a sandwich) so that we could flip it with its cut side down. This way the volunteers were easily able to see how the fleece came off the animal, find the vegetation or skirt fibers that needed to be removed, and then measure the staple length of the fleece.

Next they graded the fiber and tested for any tenderness in the fleece. Noodling the fleeces seemed to be great fun for the kids. They all got in there together keeping the plastic sheeting and the fiber in place and rolled it into what Continued on page 14

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Although some are new to grading fibers, I believe group IQ is at work here. The high and the low cancel themselves out...I have tested this with my histograms. I look at what my volunteers said...And you know, they are usually very close. looked like a cabbage roll. Once everything was done, the blanket was then taken to the scale and weighed, then the seconds, and the final weight totaled.

While we’re all very busy at the barn, I am blessed to have a few very loyal friends who keep our boutique room humming while our visitors shop. One of them creates beautiful crocheted alpaca items, and another handmade jewelry, so it works to everyone’s advantage. Each year Odelia offers a variety of different items from socks and accessories to high end sweaters. We usually make enough money to cover our shearing costs which is a nice benefit.

Upstairs in the kitchen, my next door neighbor is preparing the lunch for some very hungry volunteers, visitors, and our shearers. The hearty lunch is offered as a thank you for all the hard work everyone has generously given.

By the end of the day, our alpacas are cooler, our visitors have watched with interest and taken pictures, our volunteers have learned a lot about alpaca fiber and its preparation for the mill and we are very grateful for their support. The photos included in this article are from amateur photographers who have graciously offered their keen eye and lovely photographs from our 2013 shearing day festival. We appreciate being able to look back and remember each festival.

If anyone would like more information or to talk farm situation, we are happy to help. Again, this you and your situation, but there are so many tweak what we have done here and make it own.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR - BETH BROWN Beth Brown is the owner of Odelia

by Design, a line of signature alpaca garments. After raising suri alpacas for many years, Beth has recently sold her herd and retired to Nevada to concentrate on her growing fashion business. Beth has also coordinated a number of alpaca-themed fashion shows, including the 2014 and 2015 Suri Struts.

14 PURELYSURI

All photographs courtesy of Odelia Farms. ©2015

through your specific may not work for ways you can your

Care and Feeding of the Alpaca Shearer We asked a bunch of shearers what owners could do to make shearing day run more smoothly - here’s what they had to say...

• Have your animals ready to go when the shearer arrives. This means penned as close to the shearing area as possible, not running loose in the closest field. Ideally, animals will be identified in a manner that allows any helper to identify the next animal in the shearing order, not just the owner - numbered collars can be helpful. Be sure that everyone knows to which pen each animal should be returned to avoid accidentally mixing males and females, for example.

• Keep the alpacas dry. If the forecast calls for rain, bring them in before they get wet. Although damp suris can be sheared, it is harder on the shearer’s equipment and requires adequate room for the fleeces to be stored open in order to dry completely. If your animals do get damp, penning them with multiple fans blowing will help dry their fleeces more quickly.

• Have enough helpers to keep things running smoothly - animal handlers, fleece handlers, sweepers, etc. Be organized, and have your sample bags, noodling paper, shots, and anything else you might need ready to go. Having an extra person who can be a “go-fer” may be helpful, as well.

• Have a shearing order planned, and be sure your helpers know it. Best practice calls for shearing from light to dark, starting with the finest animal in each color group and ending with the coarsest. Very pregnant females may be sheared first to minimize their stress. Be sure to thoroughly clean the mats between animals and especially between color groups.

• Always let the shearers know ahead of time if an animal has special requirements for handling or shearing such as being pregnant, injured or having sebaceous cysts that need to be avoided. Listen carefully to your shearers as they shear your animals - they may find medical conditions you were not aware of simply by virtue of being up close to every part of the alpaca. And take notes of what they find - it’s impossible to remember everything, especially on such a hectic day.

• If you plan on taking pictures, weighing the animals, or similar activities, be sure you can keep ahead of the shearers so that they’re never waiting for animals.

• Have clear expectations for how you want the alpacas sheared - and communicate them to the shearer before shearing starts. Will some have show cuts? How should the heads be done? Topknots trimmed or not? Make sure your wishes are clear before you start.

• Most shearers get really tired of cold cuts and pizza by the end of their shearing tour. A homemade meal is greatly appreciated at the end of the day, as are cold drinks and healthy snacks during it.

Vegetarian options are always a good idea if you’re not sure what your helpers prefer, too.

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DRUM CARDING SURI FIBER

by Connie Blechle, Breezy Ridge Alpacas, LLC

Before carding, I always start with clean fiber that I have washed using Unicorn Power Scour in hot water.

You can leave the locks loose or place them in mesh bags. Submerge them in the hot water, then let them soak until the water has cooled to room temperature.

Then make a rinse tub of water that is the same temperature as the wash tub. It’s important to keep the temperatures the same to avoid felting. Squeeze out the soapy water and then place the locks in the rinse tub, repeating the rinse step until the water is clear. I then spin out the locks in the washing machine on spin cycle only (do not let the water spray during this step).

Finally, let the fiber air dry completely on drying racks.

I hand pick the locks apart as they dry. I do not like to use wool pickers with suri alpaca. I find that the pickers can be too harsh, especially on the fine fibers as they may tear the locks. I prefer the gentle touch of hand picking the locks apart. Picking the clean locks apart by hand also helps them go through the carder smoothly.

I prefer the Strauch finest drum carder with suri alpaca because of the small drum (the “licker-in”) that has the unique “slicker-licker” cloth that looks like pins instead of the teeth that are found on other carders. I find that the teeth on other carders tease the suri locks more than I like.

18 PURELYSURI

When using the Strauch finest, I lay a few locks at a time flat on the feed tray with either end going into the licker-in. I add a flexible sheet of plastic to the feed tray to help keep the locks up close to the drum as it goes in. If using a standard fine tooth carder, I do not use the feed tray and licker-in. Instead, I hold the locks over the large drum and while turning the carder, I carefully sweep the suri locks over it. Fine tooth carders work best with suri alpaca, giving a smooth fiber batt for spinning into lovely yarn as fine as lace.

Every so often during the carding process, I use a fine tooth dog slicker brush to help smooth the fibers down into the drum.

This is similar to using the burnishing tool that comes with some carders. This gets the fibers down into the teeth on a fine tooth carder.

After the drum is full, remove the batt and separate it into three or four smaller strips. Lightly tease open the strips of the batt, lay them on the feed tray, and let the licker-in (small drum) card the fiber, being careful not to add to much fiber into the licker-in at a time. Usually two to three times through the carder will create a smooth, silky batt.

continued on page 20

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Juvenile fleece tips on a first fleece will break off during the carding process. You will need to flick or hand comb those tips off before carding or you will have a batt with neps/noils. Hand spinners may use this type of locks for lock spinning or tail spinning, leaving the locks intact.

Unlike sheep’s wool, suri alpaca has no lanolin, which can create static while carding, making processing more difficult. Keep a spray bottle of a hair conditioner mixed with water or Unicorn Fibre Rinse mixed with water handy, and lightly mist the fiber to reduce static. Keeping a humidifier next to your work area will help reduce static as well.

With time and practice, you can create lovely, silky smooth batts of your own beautiful suri alpaca fiber!

About the Author - Connie Blechle Connie Blechle owns Breezy Ridge Alpacas, where she creates and designs unique accessories and fashions that bring out the special qualities of suri alpaca fiber. She displays endless creativity in her handmade designs, from warm winter wear, casual wear, to elegant evening wear, in knitted, crocheted and felted items.

The designs are made out of pure love for the suri alpaca and the fiber they produce. Connie manages her farm and fiber arts in southeast Missouri. She has been in business since 2007.

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All photographs Š2015 by Connie Blechle.

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An extraordinary herdsire with Elite Suri genetics Color: White | ARI# 32727760 | D.O.B. 9/19/2013

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What can you do with COARSE fiber?

by Alvina Maynard, River Hill Ranch

Photograph courtesy Photograph courtesy of of Donna Donna Rudd Rudd ©2015 ©2015

Wewere wereall alltold toldthe the same same thing thing when when we we started started - just throw that coarse fiber and the We “thirds”in inthe thetrash trash -- you you can’t can’t do do anything anything with it. Wrong! All fiber is usable if you find its “thirds” bestapplication. application.As As with with all all adventures adventures in in product product development, questions to ask yourself best are: are:

•• •• •• ••

Howmuch muchtime time do do you you have? have?

How Howmuch muchworking working capital capital do do you you have? have?

How Whatskills skillsand and equipment equipment do do you you presently presently have have or or can can acquire? acquire?

What Doyou youhave have access access to to or or can can you you develop develop access access to to aa target target market market for Do for that that item? item?

Hereare aresome someproduct product ideas ideas that that are are good good uses uses for for that that coarse coarse fiber. fiber. Some Here Some require require only only timeand andcreativity creativity -- others others may may require require significant significant upfront upfront cash cash outlay. outlay. Note time Note that that items items in in italics should not include thirds.

All of these products can be made in a number of different italics should not include thirds. All of these products can be made in a number of different ways:knitted, knitted,crocheted, crocheted, woven, woven, peg peg loomed, loomed, wet wet felted, felted, and and more. more. ways: Whatfiber fiberisissuitable suitablefor forthese theseprojects? projects?

What Grade55--29 29to to31.9 31.9micron micron Grade Grade 6+ over 32 microns Grade 6+ - over 32 microns “Thirds”--fiber fiberfrom fromthe thelower lower leg, leg, apron, apron, and and belly belly “Thirds” Thesegrades gradesof offiber fibertypically typically contain contain high high proportions proportions of of stiff stiff or or straight straight fibers fibers (often (often medullated).

These medullated). Although Although thefiber fiberin inthese thesegrades gradesisis strong, strong, itit maintains maintains its its warmth, warmth, and and some some degree degree of of suri suri luster luster and the and length. length.

22PURELYSURI PURELYSURI 22

Continued on page 24 Continued on page 24

Outdoor Décor and Garden Uses Requiring the least skill and equipment, these options are easy, fun, and inexpensive: • Make bird nesting fiber ornaments by stuffing thirds into grape vine balls or wreaths, or package in a suet feeder (include a suet block for an “all seasons” gift set). Have fun by dying the fiber funky colors, then looking for it in nests. Many species of birds, including the oriole pictured, will readily accept fiber offered this way.

• Another fun way to offer fiber and shelter to

retain moisture.

• You can also use it directly on the ground as a cover mulch to reduce weeds and keep in water in larger garden areas.

If designed, packaged, and marketed well, these items can indeed provide profit.

24 PURELYSURI

nesting birds is by making fibercovered gourds. Glue thirds to the outside of birdhouse gourds using non-toxic glues. Make patterns, mix and match fiber types - maybe even add some eyes to make a frighteningly hospitable “monster” bird house!

• At home, use the fiber as a lining for hanging baskets rather than buying coco fiber. Maybe even dye it in colors to complement your flowers or ferns. Or use your fiber to line the bottom of pots to help

Rugs!

Many types of rugs can be made using either core spun rug yarn or 3 or 4-ply rug yarn.

You don’t need a multi-harness floor loom, either. A peg loom or large crochet hook are fairly inexpensive and simple to learn. For nicely locked fiber (or cotted fleeces), place the fleece over a wool batt and wet felt, then dye into a cool throw rug.

now offering the colorful tapetes shown at right.

There are also a number of commercial options for having rugs made with your fiber. Ingrid’s in Texas makes rustic woven rugs, while New Era Fiber of Tennessee is

Wall Hangings/Tapestries Find a beautiful piece of driftwood or other unique item to use as the top, then weave different colors and textures of yarn, roving, or raw fiber to make one-ofa-kind art pieces.

Other Home Textiles The seat cushion pattern in this issue can be sold individually or as a set; they’re also great for stadium seats or on bleachers!

Mug rugs, place mats, curtains, and upholstery fabric are other good choices.

Equestrian Gear Saddle pads, reins, and cinches do take some skill to create but can be a beautiful, high dollar addition to your product line if you’re appealing to the equestrian market.

continued on page 26

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Outerwear and Other Garments It is important to ensure that garments made from coarse fiber are lined. It is a good idea to use a finer grade (26 microns or better) on any parts of the garments that may touch the skin, such as cuffs and collars. Coarser Suri may stand up to wear better than very fine - one enterprising owner is currently experimenting with using 50% coarse Suri in her own sock line.

Bags, Totes, Purses, Satchels Use a softer material as the strap and you can make a fetching accessory to your finer luxury garments.

What can’t coarse Suri be used for?

Suri is dense with little to no loft, so it is not well suited for pillow stuffing, duvets, quilt mats, or insulation. If used as insulation, it will compress under its own weight and will need more added on top until it has completely settled.

Photo credits: alpaca nesting ball courtesy of Carol Hunsberger, Sunnybrook Alpacas; alpaca bird gourds courtesy of Leslee Cal Michell, WindSpun Alpacas; alpaca mulch cover courtesy of Linda Clark, Happy Fibers at Box Tree Farm; peg loom rug courtesy of Jill McElderry-Maxwell, Bag End Suri Alpacas of Maine, LLC; tapetes courtesy of Karl and Jan Heinrich, New Era Fiber; seat cover courtesy of Diane Watson, Sweet Heart Suri Alpacas; and SuriSmart sock courtesy of Connie Blechle, Breezy Ridge Alpacas.

All images Š2015

u n o r d

crocheted seat cover pattern

by Diane Watson, Sweet Heart Suri Alpacas

The yarn used for this pattern is core spun Suri alpaca yarn, available from many mills and typically spun from higher grade fiber. Pull the yarn from the center of the skein (also known as a bump) as you work for ease of use. The crochet hook used is size “S” (19mm). The pattern is worked in rows, connecting the rows with a slip stitch into the first single crochet stitch (sc). The finished seat cushion measures approximately 12” in diameter.

Chain 6 and slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring.

Row 1: Make 12 single crochets (sc) into the ring. Slip stitch into first stitch and chain 1.

Row 2: Chain stitch,*1 sc into stitch, 2 sc into next stitch, repeat from * to end of Row. (18 stitches).

Slip stitch into first stitch and chain 1.

Row 3: *1 sc into 2 stitches, 2 sc into next stitch, repeat from * to end of Row. (24 stitches) Slip stitch into first stitch and chain 1.

Row 4: *1 sc into next 3 stitches, 2 sc into next stitch, repeat from * to end of Row. (30 stitches) Slip sc into first stitch and chain 1.

Row 5: *1 sc into next 4 stitches, 2 sc into next stitch, repeat from * to end of Row. (36 stitches) Slip stitch into first sc and chain 1.

Row 6: *1 sc into next 5 stitches, 2 sc into next stitch, repeat from * to end of Row. (42 stitches) Slip stitch into first sc and bind off. Weave in the ends.

This is an easy, fun way to use higher grade alpaca fiber.

You can also make “mug rugs” using this pattern, just finish off the pattern at row 2. A set of four makes a wonderful gift.

Pattern and photographs ©2015 by Diane Watson. All rights reserved.

Personal, private and local sales of finished items permitted.

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28 PURELYSURI

Keeping Alpacas with Other Livestock Yea or Neigh?

As alpacas become more available and affordable, breeders are frequently being asked by potential or new owners if alpacas can be housed and pastured with other livestock. This can be a difficult question to answer if the breeder is not familiar with whatever other animal is in question - and sometimes even if they are. In very general terms, housing or pasturing alpacas with other livestock may ▶▶change parasite risks

▶▶increase disease risks

▶▶introduce the possibility of one or more species receiving inappropriate nutrition ▶▶introduce physical risks to one or more species

▶▶increase alpaca stress, particularly if the alpaca is alone

For these reasons and those specifically outlined below, keeping alpacas in the same fields or paddocks with most other livestock is not generally recommended. It is especially discouraged with novice owners who may not yet know their animals well enough to recognize illness or injury in a timely fashion. Alpacas are very stoic, and will often hide signs of stress or illness until they are extremely ill.

While it is possible to keep alpaca together with other species, it generally does not reduce workload and should only be undertaken by experienced owners familiar with the inherent risks of mixing livestock species. It is important to remember that the potential negatives don’t just affect the alpacas - both (or all) species being housed or pastured together may face the consequences detailed above.

The Suri Network has put together this resource guide to the specific pros and cons of keeping alpacas with other common livestock species as a service to our members.

This guide is not intended as a substitute for veterinary advice and is intended as a general guideline only, based on generally accepted husbandry practices.

Continued on page 30

Alpacas and Equines

Cons: Pros: ▶▶ Equines and alpacas do not share ▶▶ Horses can damage or kill alpacas significant gastrointestinal parasites. unintentionally. Even miniature horses are proportionately much ▶▶ When pastured in rotation (not stronger than alpacas and can sharing fields at the same time), kick and bite with devastating horses and alpacas can reduce the consequences. other species’ parasite burden. ▶▶ Donkeys may pick up and shake Equines may safely eat alpaca smaller pasture mates, killing or parasites, and vice versa. injuring them. ▶▶ Donkeys may be effective guards ▶▶ Equines may bully alpacas away for alpacas if kept in a perimeter from common food sources. pasture. Donkeys with good guard instincts will come to regard the ▶▶ Alpacas are susceptible to equine interior pastures as “theirs,” and herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1), which may will be protective of them. The be fatal to camelids. mere presence of donkeys may be ▶▶ Alpacas are also susceptible to sufficient to deter coyotes.

Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus, which causes “alpaca fever,” a rare, but deadly, disease in alpacas. Horses may carry this pathogen without showing any signs of illness. ▶▶

30 PURELYSURI

Horses may carry salmonella and shed the bacteria in their manure without showing clinical signs of illness. Alpaca cria in particular are vulnerable to salmonellosis.

Alpacas and Cattle Pros: ▶▶ None

Continued on page 32

Cons: ▶▶

Cattle may damage or kill alpacas unintentionally, especially if horned.

▶▶

Cattle and alpacas share many of the same gastrointestinal parasites.

▶▶

Cattle do not use communal dung piles like alpacas, exposing the alpacas to greater parasite risk.

▶▶

Cattle may monopolize common food sources.

▶▶

The typical fencing used for cattle (electric or barbed wire) will not safely contain alpacas, nor keep their potential predators out.

▶▶

Calf starters containing lasalocid or other carboxylic ionophore antibiotics (salinomycin, monensin) are toxic or fatal to camelids.

▶▶

Alpacas are susceptible to bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), which can cause abortion or the creation of persistently infected cria if a pregnant female is exposed.

▶▶

Alpacas are susceptible to Johne’s disease, bovine tuberculosis, and potentially other economically significant diseases affecting cattle.

Bovine Tb is a significant issue for some parts of Europe. surinetwork.org

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Alpacas and Sheep Pros:

Cons:

▶▶ Alpacas and sheep can usually be contained by the same type of fencing.

▶▶

Sheep and alpacas share the same gastrointestinal parasites.

▶▶

Sheep do not use communal dung piles, exposing the alpacas to greater parasite risk.

▶▶

Alpacas are less copper sensitive than sheep, and alpaca-specific feeds are too high in copper for most breeds of sheep.

▶▶

Many sheep breeds are heavier than alpacas and may bully alpacas from common feed sources.

▶▶

Sheep may injure alpacas by butting; horned sheep are particularly potentially dangerous.

▶▶

Even gelded male alpacas may have the urge to breed female sheep.

▶▶

Adult alpacas can damage young sheep and lambs unintentionally.

▶▶

Caseous lymphadenitis (CL), a fatal disease common in sheep and goats, also affects alpacas.

▶▶

Alpacas are susceptible to Johne’s disease, Q fever, soremouth, and other diseases common to sheep.

▶▶

Alpacas may protect lambs from smaller predators like foxes.

However, alpacas are just as vulnerable to dogs and coyotes as the sheep are.

32 PURELYSURI

Alpacas and Goats Pros: ▶▶

▶▶

▶▶

Alpacas and goats can usually be contained by the same type of fencing.

Alpacas may protect kids from smaller predators like foxes, although they remain vulnerable to larger predators or groups of predators.

Alpacas and goats graze and/or browse on somewhat different plants, making more efficient use of pasture.

Continued on page 35

Cons: ▶▶

Goats and alpacas share many of the same parasites.

▶▶

Goats do not use communal dung piles, exposing the alpacas to greater parasite risk. Goats will climb into and defecate in hay feeders.

▶▶

Alpacas are copper sensitive; goat feeds and minerals contain levels of copper that may prove toxic to alpacas over time.

▶▶

Goats may bully alpacas from common feed sources.

▶▶

Goats may injure alpacas by butting; horned goats are particularly potentially dangerous.

▶▶

Even gelded male alpacas may attempt to breed female goats.

▶▶

Adult alpacas can inadvertently damage young goats and kids.

▶▶

Alpacas are susceptible to caseous lymphadenitis (CL), a fatal disease commonly found in sheep and goats.

▶▶

Alpacas are susceptible to Johne’s disease, soremouth, and other diseases common to goats.

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Alpacas and Poultry ▶▶

Poultry eagerly consume flies and their larvae, potentially reducing your herd’s fly burden.

▶▶

Some poultry, particularly ducks, eat slugs and snails, potentially reducing your herd’s risk of meningeal worm.

▶▶

Poultry rake and scratch over manure piles, potentially reducing parasite burdens if the manure dries out faster.

▶▶

Grass-eating poultry like geese, rotated after alpacas, can consume their parasites without harm to the poultry. Their gastrointestinal parasites in turn are not shared by the alpacas.

▶▶

Poultry rotated after alpacas till and fertilize fields, usually without significant damage.

▶▶

Some poultry, especially guinea fowl, avidly consume ticks.

Continued on page 36

Cons: ▶▶

While poultry and alpacas do not share coccidia species, poultry may harbor salmonella, campylobacter and E. coli in their GI tracts and deposit these bacteria in their feces.

▶▶

Poultry may roost where they are not wanted and contaminate feed or water with their droppings.

▶▶

Many owners fear that free-ranging poultry may attract predators to their area.

surinetwork.org

All photographs courtesy of Bag End Suri Alpacas of Maine, except sheep, courtesy of Nyala Farms Alpacas ©2015

Pros:

35

Alpacas and Pigs Pros: ▶▶

Pigs and alpacas do not share the same gastrointestinal parasites.

▶▶

When pastured in rotation (not sharing the same fields at the same time), pigs and alpacas can reduce the other species’ parasite burden.

36 PURELYSURI

Cons: ▶▶

Pigs are omnivorous and may attempt to consume young or compromised animals.

▶▶

Full size pigs can easily damage alpacas, intentionally or otherwise.

▶▶

Even heritage, grazing breeds of pigs may do significant damage to fields by rooting.

▶▶

Pigs may dig under non-electrified fences.

Canada’s Premiere Suri Herd • Certified quarantine & export facility • Regular European exports • North American ground transport services

Rest easy when you buy from Maine’s largest suri alpaca farm.

What we can offer you...

Comprehensive mentoring, before and after purchase Well trained, easy to handle animals Complete medical and fiber testing records Well conformed suris with exquisite fiber Breeding, boarding and other services available

Bag End Suri Alpacas of Maine, LLC

Garry & Kathy Umscheid Call or Visit Us Online Today

Jill McElderry-Maxwell • (207) 660-5276 bagendsuris@gmail.com • www.bagendsuris.com

alpaca@evergreenacres.org

PHONE: (204) 368-2467

www.evergreenacres.org

EV

EEN ACR ERGR ES

SU RI &

S CA H UACAYA ALPA

Photograph courtesy of Dale Davis, Derwydd Farms

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Where’d the Sun Go? Vitamin D and Rickets

Dr. Robert Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD 38 PURELYSURI

Photograph courtesy of Bag End Suri Alpacas. ©2015

M

ost people are familiar with vitamin D being known as the “sunshine” vitamin. This is a result of vitamin D being formed in the skin when exposed to certain wavelengths of ultraviolet (UV) light. Most people now also recognize the role that vitamin D plays in bone development. Observations linking sunshine to bone structure go back to Greek history.

During the industrial revolution in the mid 1800’s, it was recognized that children living in the city had more bone growth problems than children raised in rural locations. It was not until the early 1920’s that the compound vitamin D was discovered and characterized. Soon thereafter it was determined that UV exposure of dairy products could increase vitamin D content and reduce risk of rickets in children. This approach has been used to the present to help fortify vitamin D intake in the human population. Unfortunately, with current consumption trends where milk intake is decreasing and carbonated beverage intake increasing, we are seeing an increasing prevalence of rickets in children.

R

ickets is an abnormal bone growth disease of children and young growing animals of all domestic species that is related to nutritional deficiencies of calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, or some combination. A rickets syndrome in juvenile llamas and alpacas characterized by a shifting leg lameness and enlargement of the joints, most noticeably the carpus (knee), has been described in the early 1990’s by Dr. Murray Fowler (1,2). Affected crias have variably shown a slowed growth rate, reluctance to move, and humped-back stance. Radiographic evidence of bony growth plate changes (Figure 1) and low serum phosphorus concentrations were consistent with a diagnosis of rickets. Affected crias typically were still nursing and between 3 and 6 months of age.

The disease occurrence was most prevalent during the winter months (December to March). The seasonal occurrence of this syndrome, coupled with the age and nursing status, helped focus our attention on vitamin D as an underlying cause, rather than the obvious issue of low phosphorus.

The Camelid Research Group at Oregon State University had investigated the role of vitamin D in hypophosphatemic rickets over a period from 1993 to 1999, completing a series of five studies addressing aspects of disease etiology, treatment, and prevention.

Finding the Cause

I

n a survey of affected and normal crias on various individual farms located in the northwest, we were able to identify significantly lower blood phosphorus and vitamin D concentrations in affected compared to normal crias (3). One might ask which comes first, phosphorus deficiency or vitamin D deficiency? There is no precedent for phosphorus deficiency on a milk-based diet. In comparing blood phosphorus and vitamin D concentrations among normal and affected animals, we found phosphorus concentration to be highly associated with vitamin D in affected animals, but not in normal animals. Additionally, we showed that vitamin D supplementation alone, without phosphorus, was sufficient in correcting both low blood phosphorus and vitamin D concentrations.

The role of vitamin D in calcium regulation is well documented; however, it also has been shown to control intestinal absorption of phosphorus.

Continued on page 42

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Breeding HigH Quality Suri alpacaS! Rogue Suri Alpacas is located in the heart of the Rogue Valley of Southern Oregon.

At Rogue Suri Alpacas, we have some of the best colored Suri genetics in the United States and continue to produce top quality offspring.

What started as a wonderful hobby ranch for us, has now blossomed into full time enjoyable long term business!

We are now in our 6th year of business and continue to achieve our set goals for progressive success. Thank you to all our customers who have made this year a memorable one!

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(541) 292-6844

Where’d the Sun Go?, con’t.

Radiograph of a cria with hypophosphatemic rickets

Figure 1. Radiograph of a cria with hypophosphatemic rickets. Arrows highlight abnormally widened and irregular growth plates of long bones in rear limb.

I

n a second study, we attempted to answer the question regarding seasonal incidence of this syndrome. Blood calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D concentrations were measured monthly over a period of one year in a number of adult and growing llamas and alpacas. Again we found vitamin D concentrations in affected crias to be highly associated with blood phosphorus concentrations (4). Additionally, month of birth was also associated with blood phosphorus concentrations in growing crias. This is consistent with owner’s observations that fall-born crias are more susceptible to this problem compared to spring-born crias. Our results showed crias born between September and February had the lowest blood vitamin D concentrations compared to crias born between March and August (Figure 2). These data provide some rationale for the seasonal prevalence of this disease, but why are vitamin D concentrations so low in fall-born crias?

42 PURELYSURI

Comparison of serum vitamin D concentrations in crias

Figure 2. Comparison of serum vitamin D concentrations in crias over the first year of life categorized by month of birth (From Smith et al., 2001).

The Root of the Problem

I

n this same study, we also documented wide seasonal swings in blood vitamin D and phosphorus concentrations in adult and yearling llamas and alpacas. We also showed that animals with dark colored fleece (black) had significantly lower vitamin D concentrations compared to white or cream colored animals. Additionally, shearing during the summer resulted in increased vitamin D concentrations within a week’s time. Clearly, exposure to the summer sun’s rays is crucial to maintaining blood vitamin D concentrations. During the winter months, less UV radiation reaches the northern latitudes as a result of changes in the earth’s axis rotation.

Without adequate UV exposure during the winter months, blood vitamin D concentration drops dramatically. This affects all crias equally, why the problem in fall-born crias?

T

o understand this aspect, we need to address issues of vitamin D reserves. Blood is the storage organ for vitamin D, unlike liver which is the storage organ for vitamins A and E. Vitamin D does not appreciably cross the placenta in the pregnant female, thereby the newborn cria is born with very low vitamin D status. The pregnant female will concentrate vitamin D in the colostrum (first milk) to a level consistent with her own vitamin D status. Vitamin D status of the newborn cria will then be determined by the vitamin D content and amount

Continued on page 44

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of colostrum consumed. This further underscores the importance of ensuring good colostrum consumption by the newborn cria. Still, how does this explain the problem in fall crias? Fall-born crias may not receive sufficient vitamin D in colostrum due to their dam no longer being exposed to appropriate UV light. This also results in an inability for the cria to make vitamin D. In contrast, spring-born crias receive colostrum from dams that are being exposed to UV radiation and they have the summer months available to make their own vitamin D and store reserves. Ultimately this combination of events results in dramatic differences in cria vitamin D status during the critical growth period of three to six months of age (see figure 2).

A Solution

W

hen this health problem was being confronted by owners, a simple solution to the problem was not to have fall-born crias. This drastic action is not really necessary.

In subsequent studies (yet to be published) we have shown vitamin D injections capable of successfully treating affected crias and potentially preventing problems. Our preferred method would be to supplement adequate vitamin D in the diet to prevent the disease entirely.

Similar to reported results from an Australian study (5), injections of vitamin D can increase and maintain adequate vitamin D concentrations in adults or crias. Using the commercial vitamins A and D preparations available in the U.S., we found supplementation of vitamin D between 1,500 and 2,000 IU/kg (700 and 900 IU/lb) body weight resulted in adequate blood vitamin D concentrations for three months. Most vitamin D preparations contain 75,000 IU/ml, which translates into approximately 1 ml per 100 lbs body weight. Label directions suggest intramuscular injection of vitamin preparations, but they can be very irritating. During our studies all injections were given by this route; however, we have found a similar response to subcutaneous injections and less problems with injection site reactions. It is highly recommended that you work with your veterinarian in determining appropriate level of therapy as products may differ in concentration.

This dosage can be used in adults as well as growing crias.

O

ne can supplement the late pregnant female to improve vitamin D concentrations in her colostrum. This approach can be problematic in handling a late pregnant animal and possibly inducing enough stress to initiate premature delivery. Based on sheep work, vitamin D injections would need to be given during the last 14 days of pregnancy to effectively increase colostral concentrations. This response has not been confirmed in camelids, but injections more than one month prior to birthing may not improve colostral vitamin D status. A preferred approach would be to supplement the cria at or soon after birth and repeat in three months if necessary.

A

better approach still would be to provide sufficient vitamin D in the diet to maintain adequate vitamin D status throughout the winter months. Our preliminary research has shown some interesting findings with dietary vitamin D supplementation in camelids. Llamas and alpacas seem to poorly absorb dietary vitamin D and have a higher

44 PURELYSURI

Continued on page 46

Recognizing Rickets While alpacas of all ages are vulnerable to rickets, lack of vitamin D is most commonly diagnosed in young alpacas, in part because symptoms are generally more obvious in cria than in adults. Consider the possibility of rickets in a young animal that has any of the following symptoms, particularly if it is a dark colored cria or a fall birth: • shifting lameness • swollen knee or other leg joints • angulated front legs • decrease in activity level • difficulty walking • hunched back In adults, vitamin D deficiency may also cause decreased activity levels, poorer quality fiber, a humped appearance to the topline, and in females, difficulty becoming pregnant and/or maintaining a pregnancy.

Recent research suggests that many adult alpacas may have chronic issues with low D levels. Vitamin D is very toxic if improperly supplemented, however, so blood level testing should be considered and veterinary advice sought before beginning any supplemental program.

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requirement compared to other ruminant species. Based on some feeding trials, we have made a recommendation of feeding supplemental vitamin D at a rate of 30 to 40 IU/kg (13 to 18 IU/lb) body weight. This translates into 2,250 IU vitamin D/day for an animal weighing 150 lbs. If you are feeding a supplement at 0.3 or 1 lb/100 lbs body weight, then the vitamin D concentration in the supplement should be 5,000 or 1,500 IU/lb, respectively.

W

e have determined that vitamin D is an essential nutrient in llama and alpaca diets for ensuring good growth and bone development. Farms geographically situated in the northern US and all parts of Canada need to evaluate their animal’s vitamin D status as winter rapidly approaches. Vitamin D injections can be used to stave off any problems or treat any clinically affected animals. Continuous oral supplementation would be the preferred method, but few products are available with adequate amounts of vitamin D. Work with your veterinarian in monitoring your risk and enacting a preventive program.

References Fowler, ME. (1990). Rickets in llamas and alpacas. Llamas 4(2):92- 95.

Fowler, ME. (1992). Rickets in alpacas. Alpacas (Fall):10-13.

Van Saun, RJ, Smith, BB, Watrous, BJ. Evaluation of vitamin D status in llamas and alpacas with hypophosphatemic rickets. Journal American Veterinary Medical Association 1996;209:1128-1133.

Smith, BB, Van Saun, RJ. Seasonal changes in serum calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D concentrations in llamas and alpacas. American Journal Veterinary Research 2001;62(8):11871193.

Judson, G.J., Feakes, A. Vitamin D doses for alpacas (Lama pacos). Australian Veterinary Journal 1999;77(5):310-315.

Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD

Extension Veterinarian and Professor of Veterinary Science Pennsylvania State University Areas of Expertise Ruminant nutrition, dairy herd health, metabolic disease,reproduction, nutrition reproduction interactions Education PhD, Ruminant Nutrition, Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, 1993 MS, Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1988 Residency, Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, 1987 DVM, Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine,Michigan State University, 1982 BS, Zoology, Michigan State University, 1978

Dr. Van Saun and his PSU colleagues offer an extensive collection of excellent articles on alpaca and llama health written for camelid owners: http://extension.psu.edu/animals/camelids

46 PURELYSURI

I don’t think my alpaca feels good. He’s I Idon’t my alpaca feels good. don’tthink alpaca feels good. He’s He’s losing athink lot ofmy weight and is laying losing a lot of weight and is laying losing a lot of weight and is laying around a lot. Can anyone help me? around aroundaalot. lot. Can Cananyone anyonehelp helpme? me?

What does it mean when an What does ititmean when an What when an- he’s alpacadoes nibblesmean on your hair alpaca nibbles on your hair alpaca nibbles hair--he’s he’s being sweet to on me,your right? being sweet to me, right? being sweet to me, right?

So how hard is it to raise alpacas, anyway?

We asked the experts - your

Help!!!My Myalpaca alpacahasn’t hasn’t Help!!!

Help!!!

My alpaca hasn’t gottenup upfor fordays daysveterinarians -what what gotten gotten for days - what shouldup Ido?!? do?!? should I should I do?!?

What does it mean if a pregnant girl What does aapregnant What does itmean mean pregnant girl is lying on ither sideifif all the time? girl Is isislying on her side all the time? lying on her side all the time?Is Is something wrong? something somethingwrong? wrong?

If you’re a new or prospective alpaca owner, reading on-line forums and chat sites can make it sound like alpaca farming is full of emergencies. Birthing crises, parasite problems, mysterious illnesses…so many forums and chat sites, and so many alpaca emergencies on all of them! It’s easy to see why some people who have never owned alpacas think they are fragile livestock indeed.

But are they? PurelySuri reached out to many of the veterinarians that Suri Network owners use and asked them to tell us what they thought. These are the vets out there on the front line - your farms - treating those dystocias, identifying the parasites, and diagnosing the mystery ailments. Are alpacas really any harder to treat than cats or cattle?

We heard back from almost a dozen vets*, from most regions of the country, many of whom treat other livestock and companion animals as well. Many of the vets that replied to our survey considered themselves at least moderately familiar with camelid requirements, with only two noting that they were fairly new to camelid clients.

Here’s what they had to say.

So how hard are alpacas to treat, really?

The first thing we asked the veterinarians was what they had found to be their greatest challenge in working with alpacas. Almost universally, the answer was how well camelids mask their symptoms - and how little research has been done on them compared to other livestock and companion animals. One vet noted “My greatest challenge in dealing with camelids is how well and how long they mask their symptoms of illness.

Often owners, especially new owners, don’t see that the camelids are ill until it is almost too late to treat them.”

“My greatest challenge in dealing with camelid owners is convincing them of the importance of interacting with and handling their animals frequently, and also convincing them that subtle changes in their animals’ behavior are worth noting. Because these animals mask their illnesses so well the best way for owners to get them the help they need, when they need it, is to interact with them often enough to know when small changes, such as weight loss, occur.”

48 PURELYSURI

Another replied that “Lack of resources as to normal physiology, pharmacology and common disease processes makes it difficult to treat these animals…The amount of credible information published in journals, papers or textbooks is minuscule compared to that available for horses.” Note the caveat there - trustworthy, peer-reviewed studies are hard to find. Unfortunately, bad advice from Dr. Google is everywhere (see “Your Camelid Vet’s Pet Peeves,” beginning on page X).

But despite these challenges, all of the experienced vets agreed that camelids were really no more difficult to work with than other livestock, bearing in mind the paucity of resources available to them. One vet put it well: “Once you understand their unique health requirements I don’t find them any more difficult to treat than any other small ruminant.” Another commented “They have as many peculiarities as any species, it is just a matter of learning what is normal for behavior, handling, etc.”

So what does make them different?

We then asked the vets to describe what some of the unique health aspects of camelids were. Ulcers and parasite issues were frequently mentioned, as might be expected by experienced owners. All of the vets cautioned that owners and breeders really need to educate themselves about the common parasites in their areas, and do more fecal testing and much less guessing about what might cause weight loss, anemia and/ or ill thrift. One stressed that they often see animals for “Parasite burdens that are not discovered until it is too late for the animal. Assess your parasite management protocol with your veterinarian or extension office specialist and adapt your rearing practices to help minimize the parasites and amount of antihelmintics required.” Similarly, another vet commented on the importance of “Regular herd health with proper fecal egg counts. Know who the carriers are; treat affected animals only when warranted with appropriate products via the proper route based on the vets recommendation.”

When asked if there were any regionally specific ailments that owners should be aware of, all of the eastern vets noted that meningeal worm (Paraelephrostrongylus tenuis) was a major issue in their area. Several added that Eimeria macusaniensis (“E. mac”) was another parasite owners needed to watch for. Other regions noted that low vitamin D levels and rickets were prevalent (see Dr. Van Saun’s article in this issue, beginning on page 40). Every owner should make a point of talking with their veterinary professionals about these and other ailments that might be regionally important - Hanta virus, liver fluke, West Nile virus and many others plague some parts of the country more than others. Learning what’s in your area is critical to keeping your herd healthy.

We also invited the vets to share with us the one piece of advice they’d give all alpaca owners if they could.

The same theme of education emerged - alpaca owners need to learn as much as possible about their animals - and not just by reading chat sites and forum posts on the Internet. As breeders, we have a significant responsibility to new owners to help them educate themselves. We also need to realize that the learning process never stops, no matter how many years you have been in the industry. Just as veterinarians take advantage of continuing education, we owners need to do the same.

“Educate educate educate!! If you have invested in a camelid, take the time to research the very unique aspects of the species. They are not large sheep, they are not small cows, and they are not simply a cute and fuzzy lawn ornament!” continued on page 50

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How do I know what resources I can trust?

Setting aside chat sites and on-line forums, how can we use the Internet to help educate ourselves? It may not seem like it, but there is a plethora of good, reliable information about alpacas available on the web - the trick is identifying it. Here are some things to keep in mind when evaluating what “Dr. Google” says.

How did you find the page?

Google Scholar will turn up more academically oriented material than a regular Google search. Also, domains ending in .edu, .gov or .org may be more trustworthy than other domains. No one curates the Internet, but these three domains typically have some self-policing measures in place.

Who wrote the information?

Is the author identified? What are their credentials? Are they affiliated with an academic institution? Have they published this material in any peer-reviewed forum? Is the author’s contact information included?

Pages with clearly identified authorship by credentialed experts, that have been peer reviewed and include cited references, are superior to second or third-hand accounts.

How accurate/impartial is the information?

Is the author presenting facts or opinions? Is there a clear bias evident? Does the author receive funding that may be a conflict of interest? Is the author benefiting from related advertising - are they selling a product that they’re touting? If you research the information elsewhere, do you find similar conclusions? Look for sites where the author does not benefit from their work, such as academic publishing versus thinly veiled sales pitches. Be sure to look for current information, as well; a lot can change in camelid veterinary science in just a few years.

Is the science good?

Not all science is created equal. Ask some questions as you’re reading any new studies: 1. Was the study large enough to draw statistically valid conclusions?

2. Was it designed well? Were there controls? Were potential biases identified and accounted for?

3. Did it last long enough to really test the hypotheses?

4. Do the conclusions match what is already known? If not, are they convincing?

5. Was the study or its results reviewed by other experts in this field?

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Photograph courtesy of Glenn A. Kerns, A.J.’s Alpaca Ranch ©2015

continued on page 52

SOME RESOURCES TO KNOW Our knowledge of camelid medicine and husbandry is being refined and expanded constantly. Some good on-line resources to help keep you up to date include: • The Alpaca Research Foundation (ARF), a breeder-supported funding source for veterinary research. Details of past and present research can be found at www.alpacaresearch.org • The International Camelid Institute (ICI), a clearinghouse for camelid knowledge for veterinarians and owners alike. They have many excellent resources available at www.icinfo. org • The Suri Network, the Alpaca Owners Association (AOA), and many other breed organizations maintain on-line libraries of reference materials. The Suri Network library can be found at http://www.surinetwork.org/Library, and the AOA library at http://www. alpacaacademy.com • Similarly, many of the veterinary teaching colleges also offer on-line resources. One excellent collection is provided by the Penn State University Extension: http://extension.psu.edu/ animals/camelids There are many other excellent resources available on the web - a Google Scholar search will find those of a more academic nature than a simple Google search. Even when dealing with sources with impeccable credentials, it is always a good idea to discuss any planned protocols with a veterinary professional.

Although printed materials sometimes seem to be obsolete as soon as they are published, there are several excellent veterinary-oriented texts that deserve a place on every breeder’s (and their veterinarian’s) bookshelf: • Llama and Alpaca Care: Medicine, Surgery, Reproduction, Nutrition, and Herd Health

by Drs. Cebra, Anderson, Tibary, Van Saun and Johnson (Elsevier Press, 2013) is a comprehensive guide to SAC care. Written for the veterinary professional as well as the experienced owner, this volume brings together everything known about camelid care by a cadre of veterinary experts at the time of publication.

• Veterinary Techniques for Llamas and Alpacas by Drs. Anderson, Jones and Meisner (WileyBlackwell, 2013) covers basic and advanced veterinary procedures, including surgery, for SAC. Multiple clear photographs are invaluable.

• Medicine and Surgery of Camelids by Dr. Murray Fowler (Wiley-Blackwell, 2010) is another excellent veterinary reference for owners and veterinarians alike. Written for the veterinary professional as well as the experienced owner.

New references are being written and published every year. With the advent of electronic versions, it is now easier and less expensive to keep up with the new knowledge our camelid vets discover on a daily basis. *DEMOGRAPHICS Vets from all regions except the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest replied to our survey.

73% see companion animals, 82% see other small ruminants, 64% work with cattle, 55% treat equines, 64% have other farm livestock as patients, 18% see exotics Alpaca clients made up 1-85% of their clientele, but were under 20% of patients for most of the vets.

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Your vet’s #1 pet peeve: Dr. Let’s face it, we’ve all done it - run to the computer to Google our alpaca’s latest symptoms, rather than calling the vet. Maybe we want to be sure we’re not overreacting, maybe the budget is getting tight, but for whatever reason, it’s always tempting to call on the wisdom of the Internet rather than calling in the vet. Unfortunately, Dr. Google didn’t go to veterinary school, and a lot of times, the advice the Internet offers isn’t just questionable - it’s dangerous, especially for new owners. As one of our survey vets noted, “In my experience many owners purchase a camelid(s) without any experience of ANY type of livestock, including any knowledge of basic camelid husbandry, handling etc.

These owners often lack comprehension of the physiologic and behavioral needs specific to camelids. This creates an owner of a livestock animal who has never had to evaluate what is normal, what is abnormal, what is an emergency or not an emergency, how to give very basic treatments…”

Pair this inexperienced owner with the Internet, and disaster may follow. An alpaca that seems sick is often very sick; because they are prey animals, alpacas instinctively try to hide symptoms of being unwell. If they can no longer hide their symptoms, they may be on death’s door - wait and see and ask questions on-line isn’t a good tactic with these animals. One vet lamented, “[Too] Few recognize or respond to serious conditions...when they first see the signs. A couple of days of not-doing-right before seeking treatment often makes the difference between life and death...”

On-line advice is free, but as the old saying goes, you get what you pay for. Your vet paid for years of intensive medical training in vet school and residencies, in dollars, cents, lost sleep, and tireless effort. They are always learning, just like we owners should be. But the sources we learn from are critical. Every vet that responded to our survey essentially pleaded “Educate yourself with reputable sources university sponsored programs, specialty practitioners (vets), NOT THE INTERNET.” Another vet noted, “the amount of testimonial information and incorrect/improper methods of treatment available on the Internet makes it difficult to overcome misconceptions.” The Internet is teeming with advice - and much of it is inappropriate, incorrect or outdated.

Working together as a team, owners and their vets can bring formidable practical and theoretical knowledge to bear. You know your animals, and your vet knows medicine. Yes, you may disagree on treatments from time to time, but your vet is a critical sounding board for any treatments you’re considering. The ability to communicate openly, have honest discussions and reach consensus should be a hallmark of a good vet/client relationship. And remember that everyone makes mistakes. We owners certainly do, and sometimes, so do excellent, well trained veterinarians. What’s important is that you and your vet learn from the tragedies as well as the triumphs.

So please, “When your veterinarian looks at your ill alpaca and gives you a diagnosis and treatment plan...do not then go to your favorite on-line camelid chat site and solicit advice on treatments. The advice that is given is very often not medically backed, and actually may be counter productive to what your veterinarian prescribed.” There are reputable on-line resources for camelid owners, and terrible ones - we hope this issue of PurelySuri has provided you with some good ones. Be sure to use Dr. Google wisely - and always under the advice of a real animal doctor.

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Mycoplasma haemolamae: Common and Controllable

by Dr. Susan J. Tornquist, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVP The infectious organism now known as Mycoplasma haemolamae was first described in the veterinary literature in 1990 in two separate articles - one describing it in Colorado llamas and the other describing it in llamas in Kentucky. Because it looked and seemed to act like Eperythrozoon spp, an infectious agent known to occur in sheep and swine, this organism was called Eperythrozoon spp. or “Epe” for short. We now know that “Epe” is actually a type of mycoplasma, and is properly called Mycoplasma haemolamae.

Development of the PCR test

In 2001, we developed a very sensitive test based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to accurately detect this organism. Before this PCR test was developed, the infection was diagnosed by looking for the organisms on the edges of red blood cells on blood smears. This was complicated by the fact that the organisms do not actually get into the red blood cells, but just sit on their surface. They fall off the cells within a few hours after the blood sample is taken and then they look like background stain. Development of the PCR assay was crucial to learning more about the infection and potential treatments for it.

Finding the genetic sequence

In 2002, the genetic sequence of the organism was published and it was shown to be very closely related to similar organisms in cats, swine, sheep, and cattle. These were all reclassified as different types of mycoplasmas.

It has been shown that M. haemolamae can infect both llamas and alpacas and it has not been shown to infect other host animals. At this time, there are no reports of attempts to infect Old World camels with this organism.

What are mycoplasmas?

Mycoplasmas are small bacteria that do not have a cell wall - a fact that gives them some unique characteristics.

There are many different types of mycoplasmas that affect essentially all types of animals, including humans (M. haemolamae does not infect humans, however). M. haemolamae is in a small sub-set of mycoplasmas called “hemotropic mycoplasmas” because they only infect blood cells. One of the interesting things about this form of mycoplasma is that no one has been able to successfully grown these organisms in culture. This places limitations on the amount of information we can easily gain about how they grow, what drugs can be used to eliminate them and how to prevent infection. Another feature of these types of organisms is that they appear to be only transmitted via blood.

Clinical signs

Clinical signs that have been reported in infected alpacas and llamas are mild to severe anemia (low red blood cell count), depression, lack of energy, fever, weight loss and sometimes death - at least in very young animals.

Importantly, it appears that the vast majority of infected camelids are clinically normal with no apparent clinical signs or laboratory abnormalities. When clinical signs are present, they are more commonly seen in alpacas and llamas that are stressed or have suppressed immune systems. This can be associated with shipping or movement of animals from one place to another, having crias, and having other infections, such as gastrointestinal parasites, at the same time.

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Infection studies and possible treatments

Having the PCR assay allowed us to do several clinical trials in which we infected groups of llamas and alpacas and followed their infection status, clinical signs, and response to several different potential treatments. Here are some important things we learned: • Most infected camelids don’t show clinical signs • Some may have laboratory abnormalities • Infections with this organism were occurring in all states and every country that we tested at the time (Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Eastern Europe) • Once infected, almost all animals are infected for life In these infection studies, we looked at the effectiveness of three different antibiotics - oxytetracycline, florfenicol,and enrofloxacin. We found that none of these effectively cleared the infection. Use of injectable oxytetracycline did appear to often decrease the number of organisms present, but did not actually clear the infection. Artemisin, an herbal medication used to treat malaria patients in areas of the world with malaria treatment-resistance, was not also effective in clearing the infection.

How is it transmitted?

We still don’t have solid evidence as to how this infection is transmitted. Based on similar organisms in other species and on some seasonal patterns of occurrence, we suspect it’s most often transmitted by biting insects.

This has yet to be proven, and a few efforts to amplify M. haemolamae from biting insects found on infected camelids have not resulted in positive amplification.

Since M. haemolamae has been diagnosed in crias as young as 24 hours of age, it has also been suspected that it can be transmitted to crias while they are still in the uterus. A report in 2011 showed that crias born to dams that are positive for infection at the time of birth may be negative by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay both prior to and after nursing on the infected dam. Other crias born to infected dams are positive before and after ingestion of colostrum and remain positive up to 6.5 months (Tornquist, et al, 2011). M. haemolamae was not amplified from colostrum from a dam that tested positive at the time of parturition.

How common is it?

We studied the prevalence of the infection in two different ways. One was by looking at the results of over 6,000 samples that were submitted to the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory between 2001 and 2012. These came from alpacas and llamas of all ages, both genders and both healthy and sick animals. Samples came from all of the United States, Canada, Australia and the U.K. The percent of positive animals was 31.7% with no differences in prevalence between alpacas and llamas, between genders, or between animals of different ages. When animals were in herds (groups of 5 or more), the average percentage of positive animals in a group was 36%. This suggests that direct transmission between animals in a group does not occur, or the prevalence in an infected group would be higher.

The highest incidence was in the late summer and fall (July, August and September) and the lowest incidence was in the spring (April, May and June). We also tested over 500 healthy alpacas and llamas in the Pacific Northwest and found an average of 28% positive animals. As these were all healthy animals, examined by veterinarians, this supports the idea that most infected animals do not show clinical signs. We had the opportunity to test a number of alpacas and llamas in Peru and Chile and found about a 10-20% positive rate in those South American countries.

Continued on page 56

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Still to learn

There are still many questions to be answered about this infection although we’ve answered some. It’s important to keep the following points in mind: • It is most likely that a camelid will remain infected for life, once infected. This does not mean that the animal will become clinically ill from the infection.

• The PCR assay is very sensitive, but the number of organisms in an infected animal can drop below the detection limit at times. This means that a negative PCR test does not guarantee that an animal is not infected.

• An infected dam will not necessarily pass on the infection to her cria but it appears that this is possible and may be common.

• Infected animals are most likely to show clinical signs or to have more severe infections when they are stressed or immunosuppressed.

• An infected camelid in a group does not mean that the whole group is infected - in fact, the odds are that they are not all infected.

Susan J. Tornquist, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVP

Lois Bates Acheson Dean Professor of Clinical Pathology College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University Corvallis, Oregon Professional Awards: Norden Distinguished Teacher Award, 1999 Pfizer Research Award for Research Excellence, 2002 Inducted into Veterinary Honor Roll, Morris Animal Foundation, 2003 Professional and Research Interests: Hematology Diagnostic cytology and hematology Metabolic disease

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Suri Network Membership Directory Vince, Marcie and Megan Abbatiello Double G Farm Alpacas 524 Clay Ridge Road Alexandria, KY 41001 859-448-0769 doublegfarmalpacas@gmail.com

Jude Anderson and Alan Cousill Pucara International 15204 SW Muddy Valley Rd McMinnville, OR 97128 503-843-3939 jude.pucara@earthlink.net www.pucara-alpacas.com

Mary and John Bell Windy Hill Farm NC 844 Henderson Rd Tryon, NC 28782 828-894-3020 marybell@happyalpacas.com www.happyalpacas.com

Barbara Boineau River Run Ranch 1706 S Riverbend Rd Wanship, UT 84017 435-901-1274 bboineau@hotmail.com www.RiverRunAlpacas.com

John Abrahamsson God’s Little Acres 9470 Glider Loop Colorado Springs, CO 80908 719-495-3720

Donna Anderson and Richard Walker Seed Stock Suri Alpacas 2771 Byrnes Rd Touchet, WA 99360 info@seedstocksuris.com 503-888-9712 www.seedstocksuris.com

James Bell and Carmela Osborne Bellborne Farm 835 South Main Street Findlay, OH 45840 419-348-0973 carmelaosborne@gmail.com www.bellbornefarm.com

Amanda Brand Suri Downs Farm 2280 Camelback Road Maidens, VA 23102 804-556-0113 abrand7777@gmail.com www.suridownsfarm.com

Kim Bisceglia McCarty Creek Ranch P.O. Box 2216 Flournoy, CA 96029 530-833-5431 mccartycreekranch@yahoo.com www.openherd.com/farms/3860/ mccarty-creek-ranch

Sally and Jay Brandon The Shepherd’s Mill, Inc. 839 Third St Phillipsburg, KS 67661 785-543-3128 sally@kansasfiber.com www.kansasfiber.com

Kathy Albert Heartland “Criations” Alpacas 2512 Knox Road 500 East Rio, IL 61472 309-368-7354 kathyj93@hotmail.com www.hcalpacas.com Michelle Alexander Dakini Suri Alpacas 60375 Arnold Market Rd Bend, OR 97702 541-678-3306 info@dakini-alpacas.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/4806 Michael and Sherry Alpert Awesome Acres Pacas & Pyrs 11800 S. Hiwassee Rd Oklahoma City, OK 73165 405-990-8205 awesomealpacas@aol.com www.pacasnpyrs.com Carl & Regina Alvaraz Braecroft Suri Alpacas PO Box 26 Mayhill, NM 88339 575-687-3697 braecroftsurialpacas15@yahoo.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/2928 Patti Anderson and Alan Anderson Wild Rose Suri Ranch 3623 Harmony Church Rd Havre de Grace, MD 21078-1015 410-734-7084 anderson@wildrosealpacas.com www.WildRoseAlpacas.com

Clare and Chris Arena Freedom Ridge Alpaca Farm 1152 Gringo Clinton Rd Alqiuippa, PA 15001 412-812-0411 www.freedomridgealpacafarm.com Linda Bader and Cindy Smith Shady Hollow Suri Alpacas 4810 McMillan Road Bad Axe, MI 48413 989-658-8629 shsurialpacas@gmail.com www.shsurialpacas.com William E. Barnett, DVM Alpacas of America, LLC 16641 Old Highway 99 SE Tenino, WA 98589 360-264-7585 info@americanalpacameat.com www.alpaca1.com Bill and Carol Barrett Heartsease Alpacas LLC 7851 N. Red Hill Rd Ellettsville, IN 47429 812-876-5228 wjbarrett44@gmail.com www.heartseasealpacas.com Mitch and Sue Beauregard Three Niece Farm, LLC PO Box 163 Hampton, CT 06247 860-455-0485 info@threeniecefarm.com www.threeniecefarm.com

Karen Biscella Victoria Lane Alpacas 48216 Metz Rd New Waterford, OH 44445 330-503-9561 kbiscella@victorialanealpacas.com www.victorialanealpacas.com

Randy and Beth Brealey Chelsea Farms 19450 208th Ave SE Renton, WA 98058 206-229-8845 randy@thealpacaplace.com www.TheAlpacaPlace.com

Dean and Connie Blechle Breezy Ridge Alpacas LLC 908 PCR 810 Perryville, MO 63775 573-547-2217 info@breezyridgealpacas.com www.breezyridgealpacas.com

Beverly and Jason Brehm Rogue Suri Alpacas 1075 Washburn Lane Medford, OR 97501 541-292-6844 roguesurialpacas@yahoo.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/2811

Bob and Vicki Blodgett Suri Land Alpaca Ranch 10371 N 2210 Rd Clinton, OK 73601 641-831-3576 alpaca@htswireless.com www.alpacanation.com/suriland.asp

Beth and Rodney Brown Odelia Farms 1155 Jessia Lane Fernley, NV 89408 314-703-0680 bethbrown@charter.net www.odeliabydesign.com

Connie and Rick Bodeker B.B.F. Alpacas, Inc. 6842 - 338th St Way Cannon Falls, MN 55009-4225 612-308-6378 bbfai@frontiernet.net www.bluffbreezefarm.com

Dawn Browning and Susan Fell Sie Sutter Suri Alpaca, LLC 703 Fort Hill Rd Maysville, KY 41056 859-338-2946 sssalpaca@gmail.com www.openherd.com/farms/3829/siesutter-suri-alpaca-llc

The Suri Network membership year now runs from June 1 to May 31 of the following year for all members. All members current in their dues as of June 1, 2015 are included in this listing. Members are listed alphabetically by last name. All members have the ability to update their contact information on-line at any time through their account on the Suri Network website. We encourage members to keep their contact information complete and up to date, so that potential clients can easily reach them. Should you need assistance updating your information, feel free to contact the office at (970) 586-5876 and they will be happy to assist you. The Suri Network is not responsible for, and expressly disclaims all liability for, damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on any information contained within this directory.

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Suri Network Membership Directory Caren and John Bryant Yosemite Valley Alpacas, LLC 7913 Hunters Valley Road Mariposa, CA 95338 209-376-2428

www.yosemitevalleyalpacas.com

Gail Campell Ameripaca Alpaca Breeding Co. P.O. Box 256 Galesville, MD 20778 410-867-4204 info@ameripaca.com www.ameripaca.com

Paula Buchner Alpacas of Greater Tennessee 10925 Hwy 58 Georgetown, TN 37336 423-344-5252 greatertnalpacas@bellsouth.net www.alpacasofgreatertn.com

Jeanette and James Campbell Alpacas at Willowbrook Farm 24365 Pflumm Road Louisburg, KS 66053 913-879-2066 je.campbell@earthlink.net www.alpacasatwillowbrook.com

Judith Buning Silver Lining Suris 1150 W. Brown Rd Mayville, MI 48744 810-656-7784 judy@slsuris.com www.slsuris.com

Jim and Marilyn Campbell Scotia Acres LLC 330 Newbolds Corner Rd Lumberton, NJ 08048 856-985-9012 scotiaacres@gmail.com www.scotiaacres.com

Willard Burney Sound of Freedom Farm, LLC 3936 Charity Neck Road Virginia Beach, VA 23457 844-763-3276 will@soundoffreedomfarm.com www.soundoffreedomfarm.com

Kate Campbell Circle 6 Alpacas 5108 Barton Rd Williamston, MI 48895 517-599-8983 kate_circle6@yahoo.com www.circle6alpacas.com

Kellie and David Butsack Noble Glen 555 Valley Road Mohrsville, PA 19541 610-926-9690 nobleglen@mac.com www.nobleglen.com

Michael Cannizzaro Lyrical Farms LLC 25 Sleepy Hollow Dr Milford, NJ 08848 917-209-9900 drmcan22@gmail.com

jcbryant@yosemitevalleyalpacas.com

Jay Call and Gina White Finca Solaz 8100 FM 2325 Wimberley, TX 78676 512-847-2381 jrc@johnrcall.com

Verna and Mikayla Carpenter Pleasant Prairie Suris 4101 N Ashton Road Otis Orchards, WA 99027 509-270-1259 verna_carpenter@yahoo.com www.ppsuris.com

Kathleen and Tom Callan Zena Suri Alpacas 35401 S 580 Rd Jay, OK 74346 804-389-2579 zena.impulse@gmail.com www.zenasurialpacas.com

Debbie and Ed Chesna Ledge View Alpaca Farm W 4173 County Road H Fond Du Lac, WI 54937-9653 920-923-6925 chesna@ledgeviewalpacas.info

Albert J. and Rebecca A. Camma The Alpacas of Spring Acres 3370 Big B Rd Zanesville, OH 43701 740-796-2195 ajcamma@gmail.com www.thealpacasofspringacres.com

April Chestnut and Randy Rogers Caramel Creek Select Suris 44528 Crestview Rd Columbiana, OH 44408 330-314-2744 aprilc44528@yahoo.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/1799

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www.alpacanation.com/ledgeview.asp

Deb and Doug Christner Akuna Matada Suri Alpacas 28444 Redlands Mesa Rd Hotchkiss, CO 81419 970-872-4446 akunamatada@tds.net http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/264

Lisa Collura and Robert Figular Memory M-Acres 33 New Rd Lambertville, NJ 08530 609-902-3551 nexttime1826@aol.com www.memorymacres.com

Valaen and Bill Clapsaddle East Fork Alpaca Farm 2082 Fawn Lane Batavia, OH 45103 513-460-0334 efalpacas@fuse.net www.efalpacas.com

Gregory Conley 3410 N Placita Herradura Douglas, AZ 85607 609-680-9203 templar912@icloud.com

Mary Lou Clingan Waywood Farm Alpacas 14136 Township Road 108 Findlay, OH 45840 419-299-5012 mlclingan@aol.com Jan Clingman and Jim Hellenbrand Lodi Alpacas at Whistling Valley Farm W12002 Slack Rd Lodi, WI 53555 608-576-8607 info@lodialpacas.com www.lodialpacas.com Barbara and Randy Coleman Wings & A Prayer Alpacas 18100 S. Hwy. 99W Amity, OR 97101 503-310-9367 wapalpacas@frontier.com www.wingsandaprayeralpacas.com Thomas Coleman and Jody Hinton-Coleman Rolling Acres Alpacas S3411 Coleman Lane Viroqua, WI 54665 608-483-2274 tcoleman@mwt.net www.salpaca.com Micki and Matt Colloton Steelhead Ranch Alpacas 1376 Highway 141 White Salmon, WA 98672 425-408-2914 mickic@steelheadranch.com www.steelheadranch.com

Dan and Cari Corley Alta Vida Alpacas 9535 E. Parker Rd Parker, CO 80138 303-884-7374 qualityalpacas@altavidaalpacas.com www.altavidaalpacas.com Heather Cross Suri Charisma Alpacas 18575 Ramah Hwy Ramah, CO 80832 719-541-0321 hcinramah@gmail.com R.T. Crowe, II Bar C Ranch 211 Slim Buttes Rd Chadron, NE 69337 775-750-0099 nesuris@bbc.net

www.alpacanation.com/barcranch.asp

Brenda and Frank Crum Golden Spirit Alpaca Ranch 17902 Spencer Rd Odessa, FL 33556 813-920-2475 crum@goldenspiritalpaca.com www.goldenspiritalpaca.com Lynda Cunningham and Jeff Bennett Serenity Valley Alpacas 2026 Waring St Seaside, CA 93955-3215 831-869-0751 svalpacas@gmail.com www.sv-alpacas.com Christian and Michelle Davies C&M Acres Fiber Mill & Alpacas 33707 663rd Ave Maxwell, IA 50161 515-387-8607 cmacres@cmacres.com www.cmacres.com

Suri Network Membership Directory Dale and Jan Davis Derwydd Alpacas 24485 Derwydd Way Esparto, CA 95627 530-908-3534 dale@derwyddalpacas.com www.derwyddalpacas.com

Tracy DiPippo Angel Dreams Alpacas 690 Whispering Oaks Place Thousand Oaks, CA 91320 805-432-9344 tracid318@aol.com www.Alpacasdream.com

Diana Erhart Moonglow Farm Alpacas 2635 Saltair Road Bethel, OH 45106 513-289-5539 crrpt@aol.com www.moonglowfarmalpacas.com

Jason and Athena Dawson Rocky Edge Ranch 4687 State Hwy 69 Cotopaxi, CO 81223 www.rockyedgeranch.com

Evi Dixon Spanish Peaks Alpacas LLC 3180 Curtis Lane Manhattan, MT 59741 406-579-9694 evidixon@littleappletech.com www.sp-surialpacas.net

Robert and Jennifer Errey Errydge 90 Errey’s Rd Violet Town, Victoria 3669 Australia +61411556137 erreyrj@optusnet.com.au

Jack and Miriam Donaldson Alpaca Jack’s Suri Farm 13939 CR 215 Findlay, OH 45840 419-423-3890 alpacajack@aol.com www.alpacajack.com

Norm Evans, DVM Florissant, MO

Dave DeGroot DDF Alpacas PO Box 510 Odell, OR 97044 541-806-6262 dave.dgrt@gmail.com Patricia M. Dempsey Beloveds Farm 12961 NE 72nd Blvd Lady Lake, FL 32162 352-430-3456 Patricia@BelovedsFarm.com www.belovedsfarm.com Hillary Devin and Scott Phillips Shambalah Alpaca Ranch 7157 E Park Dr Franktown, CO 80116 303-588-2076 hillary@shambalahalpaca.com www.shambalahalpaca.com Diane and Bobby Dickerson Rock’n D Enterprises 11550 Hunt Lane Guthrie, OK 73044 405-850-6533 rockndenterprises@yahoo.com www.rockndenterprises.com

Tilly and Katie Dorsey DAFI Alpacas P.O. Box 55 Butler, MD 21023 410-591-0691 dorseytrf@aol.com www.dafi.com Scott Douglass 3104 Bryn Mawr Dr Dallas, TX 75225 mtsapllc@yahoo.com Angie Downing and Kurt Bolen A & K Alpacas, LLC 13969 Road R Columbus Grove, OH 45830 419-303-0298 aandkalpacas@gmail.com

David and Jill Dietz Liberty Hill Farm 5597 Liberty Rd Bentleyville, OH 44022 440-248-0409 libertyhillalpacas@gmail.com

Roger and Karen Dunn Angel Fleece Alpaca Farm 3508 Veechdale Rd Simpsonville, KY 40067 502-722-8530 kdunn@angelfleecealpacas.com www.angelfleecealpacas.com

Kim Dietz Kajota Meadows LLC 1835 Risser Mill Rd Mount Joy , PA 17552 717-492-4114 kajotameadows@gmail.com www.kajotameadows.com

Victor Leland Epperson Moon Shine Alpacas 297 Bushnell Rd Douglas, GA 31533 530-518-4094 victorepperson@att.net www.moonshinealpacas.com

Scott and Laurie Findlay Alpacas of El Dorado 4535 Boo Bear Lane Somerset, CA 95684 530-642-8082 alpacasofeldorado@hughes.net www.alpacasofeldorado.com Ben and Lynda Fisco Humming Hill Suri Farm Ltd. 12100 Pekin Road Newbury, OH 44065-9622 440-564-5114 alpacas@humminghill.com www.humminghill.com June Ford Shady J Ranch PO Box 2737 Ramona, CA 92065 858-531-6696 shadyjranch@gmail.com

Lona Nelsen Frank and John Frank ALPACAS of Tualatin Valley, LLC 22750 SW Rosedale Rd Beaverton, OR 97007 503-649-2128 lfrank@alpacatv.com www.alpacatv.com Gary Frantz Spirited Fields Alpacas 1211 S Quebec Way #13-103 Denver, CO 80231 303-886-5125 gd.frantz@hotmail.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/4365 Chris and Jess Fredericks Whistling Pines Ranch 499 4 1/2 Ave Clayton, WI 54004 715-419-0127 whistlingpinesranch@yahoo.com www.whistlingpinesranch.com Carol Furman Carrageen Alpacas 82 West Gray Road Gray, ME 04039 207-653-1144 carrageens@twc.com www.carrageensurialpacas.com Cheryl Gehly Cria-tivity Alpacas 6 Restmere Terrace Middletown, RI 02842 508-404-4373 crgehly@aol.com

Robert and Debra Fordam Miners Mountain Alpacas PO Box 135 Teasdale, UT 84773 435-680-7687 fc_inc@live.com

Karin Giordano and Erica Tollini Bucks County Alpacas LLC 2736 Bedminster Rd Perkasie, PA 18944 215-795-2453 karin111549@hotmail.com www.BucksCountyAlpacas.com

Lucy Lee and King Fowler LunaSea Alpaca Farm 11812 Ridge View Circle Clermont, FL 34711 352-223-9457 lunaseafarm@yahoo.com www.lunaseaalpacafarm.com

Michael and Kathryn Glass KaMi Alpaca Ranch, LLC 6680 S Abilene Way Centennial, CO 80111 303-358-2725 kathryn@kamialpaca.com www.KaMiAlpaca.com

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Suri Network Membership Directory Stacey Goss Goldyn Rae Alpacas 34662 Columbine Trail Elizabeth, CO 80107 303-819-8001 goldynrae@gmail.com www.goldyn-rae-alpacas.com Bob Graf Alpaca Bob 611 S. Palm Canyon Dr. #7452 Palm Springs, CA 92264 760-327-7980 www.AlpacaBob.com Victor and Carolyn Gray Rockin’ Alpaca Suri Ranch 4614 Springfield Rd Meherrin, VA 23954 804-307-2957 suri@americansuri.com www.americansuri.com Kathy Graziani Flame Pool Alpacas, Ltd. 9124 Flamepool Way Columbia, MD 21045 410-884-5397 flamepoolalpacas@verizon.net www.flamepoolalpacas.com Collins and Nikki Griffith Sandollar Alpacas 2001 S Washington St Kennewick, WA 99337 509-378-5833 sandollar01@gmail.com www.sandollaralpacas.com Jennifer Hack Triple H Ranch 4098 N Hwy 67 Sedalia, CO 80135 720-733-2672 jennifer@triplehalpacas.net www.triplehalpacas.net

Rebecca Hammer Orchard Hill Alpacas PO Box 842 Elkins, WV 26241 304-636-5519 hammerr@davishealthsystem.org www.alpacanation.com/orchardhill. asp Ron and Kathy Harelstad R K Ranch 626 18th Street Chetek, WI 54728 715-837-1759 rk.suri.alpacas@gmail.com http://www.openherd.com/ farms/2306/r-k-ranch Cindy Harris Alpacas at Windy Hill 7660 Bradley Road Somis, CA 93066 805-907-5162 cindy@alpacalink.com www.alpacalink.com Lisa Haselhorst Grandview Suri Alpacas 12102 N First St Parker, CO 80134 303-910-4975 e-Mail lisa5b@msn.com www.grandviewsurialpacas.com Britt and Patty Hasselbring Hasselbring’s Harmony Ranch PO Box 630 Concordia, MO 64020 816-769-3939

patty@hasselbringsharmonyranch.com www.hasselbringsharmonyranch.com

Brenda Hauck 6532 S. Yarrow Way Littleton, CO 80123 brenda_hauck@yahoo.com

Terri Hale Lost Creek Suri Alpacas 5709 Highway 8 Chester, NE 68327 720-244-8410 lostcreeksurialpacas@gmail.com www.lostcreeksurialpacas.com

Mike and Mary Hayden Quest Alpacas 20911 Ehle Rd Woodburn, IN 46797 260-632-4399 maryann.hayden@sirva.com www.QuestAlpacas.com

Steve and Laura Hall BuzznHum Alpacas LLC 15851 NW Willis Road McMinnville, OR 97128 213-280-3101 laura@buzznhumalpacas.com www.buzznhumalpacas.com

Ann Hayes Dancing Moon Alpacas 1267 S. Goldstone Circle Anaheim, CA 92804 714-876-8362 dancingmoonsuris@aol.com www.dancingmoonalpacas.com

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Joy Hays SuperFleece Alpacas, LLC, d/b/a SuperFleece Suri Alpacas 150 S Harrison St, Unit 5 Denver, CO 80209 913-481-5243 joydhays@gmail.com

Meagan and Jeff Hillman Rio Vista Farm LLC 33430 County Rd 11 Lamar, CO 81052 719-336-6599 riovistafarm@outlook.com

Louise and Robert Hazen Blue Mesa Alpacas, LLC 10 Blue Mesa Rd Santa Fe, NM 87508 505-473-9316 bluemesaalpacas@yahoo.com www.BlueMesaAlpacas.com

Cathy and Jim Hinze Alpaca Play Pen, LLC 10869 Bowen Rd Attica, NY 14011 585-591-2520 cathyhinze2@verizon.net www.alpacaplaypen.com

Karl and Janice Heinrich Long Hollow Suri Alpacas 698 Wallace Road Gallatin, TN 37066 615-452-7852 karlh@longhollowalpacas.com www.longhollowalpacas.com

Jim and Jane Olson-Holzer Unisource Suri Alpacas & Llamas, L.L.C. 144 Osprey Circle Hope, ID 83836-9704 208-264-5101

Nancy and David Helwig 925 Sterling Alpacas 10451 Valley Drive Plymouth, CA 95669-9515 209-245-3438 sterlingalpacas@yahoo.com www.925suris.com Judith Henderson 4147 Estates Drive Center Valley, PA 18034 mommavideo@yahoo.com Chad and Heather Heiniger Heiniger Hill Farm 39W680 McDonald Road Elgin, IL 60124 224-633-6795 heinigerhillfarm@gmail.com www.HeinigerHillFarm.com Heather and Andres Hernandez Joya de Suri 6920 6150 Rd Olathe, CO 81425 970-323-6835 joyadesuri@gmail.com Leslie Herzog Herzog Alpacas, LLC 1762 McCraren Rd Highland Park, IL 60035 847-702-7731 leslie.herzog@yahoo.com

Fiona Hunter Pelham Alpacas 216 Louth Townline Rd

St Catharines, ON, Canada L2R 6P7

905-684-9847 fiona@pelhamalpacas.ca www.pelhamalpacas.ca

Jerry L. & Susan E. Inman Flights of Fancy Farm 61750 Cougar Trail Bend, OR 97701-9636 541-598-7417 jerrylinman@netscape.net Amber Isaac Silken Suri Alpaca Ranch 6219 Lake Gulch Rd Castle Rock, CO 80104 303-258-7835 amber@silkensuri.com www.silkensuri.com Cherise Jolley San Juan Jolley Acres 2120 Falcon Drive Fort Collins, CO 80526 970-449-3778 jolleyalpacas@gmail.com www.alpacanation.com/ sanjuanjolleyacres.asp Dianna and Jack Jordan Alpacas of Somerset Farm PO Box 190 Somerset, CA 95684 530-620-6033 dljordan@live.com www.alpacasofsomersetfarm.com

Suri Network Membership Directory Nicholas Judson 7083 S Knolls Way Centennial, CO 80122 303-258-7835 nicjud@gmail.com Bruce and Myndee Jung Rock Creek Suris 57429 710th Rd Fairbury, NE 68352 402-604-1242 rockcreeksuris@hotmail.com www.openherd.com/farms/4154/ rock-creek-suris Ann and Tony Kaminski Break Loose Farm P.O. Box 25 Manchester, MD 21102 410-374-4383 annkaminski1@gmail.com www.breakloosefarmalpacas.com Pamela Kelly Bridgetown Suri Alpacas 9875 Bayside Rd Machipongo, VA 23405 561-308-0791 pam_kelly@earthlink.net www.bridgetownsurialpacas.com Susan King Big Timber Alpacas 29400 SW Heater Rd Sherwood, OR 97140 503-799-6941 sue@bigtimberalpacas.com www.bigtimberalpacas.com Willis and Linda Kirkpatrick Tarawold Camelid Ranch 4487 NW McLoughlin DR Yamhill, OR 97148 503-662-4292 infotarawold@gmail.com www.tarawold.com Steven, Rose Ann and Tasha Knoblock

Knoblock’s Prairie Ranch 179 270th Street Sabetha, KS 66534 785-284-2589 info@knoblocksalpacas.com www.knoblocksalpacas.com

Linda K. Kondris Pines Edge Suri Alpacas 12245 Melba Rd Black Forest, CO 80106-8966 719-495-9633 pinesedgeranch@gmail.com www.pinesedge.com

Carol & Martin Korba Si Suri Alpacas, LLC 2244 N. Revere Rd Akron, OH 44333 330-668-2402 sisurialpacas@roadrunner.com www.alpacanation.com/sisuri.asp

Darlene Lander Dun Roving Farm 454 Dodge Rd Frewsburg, NY 14738-9742 716-569-2198 darlene@netsync.net www.dunrovingfarm.com

Judith A. Korff LadySong Farm 2473 Bunker Hill Rd Randolph, NY 14772 716-499-0383 judithkorff@gmail.com www.ladysong.alpacanation.com

Ann Lange and Kurt Martin KALM Acres N5879 30th Road Pine River, WI 54965 920-987-9046 kalmacres@outlook.com

Margit Korsak Boulder Hill Alpacas 315 Merkle Rd Boyertown, PA 19512 610-367-8486 boulderhillalpacas@yahoo.com www.boulderhillalpacas.com Karen Kovisto Symphony Fibers 6670 Sunset Circle Kiowa, CO 80117 818-326-7393 karenkovi@sbcglobal.net www.SymphonyFibers.com

Mary-Margaret Lannon Percussion Rock Alpaca Farm 6669 N Sioux Chicago, IL 60646 773-577-0217 lannon.mary@gmail.com Kirk and Julie Lentz Alpine Vista Suri Alpacas LLC 73 Wineglass Loop South Livingston, MT 59047 406-222-0472 julie@jklentz.net www.alpinevistasurialpacas.com Nancy Lindemood 2 Point Farm, LLC 6330 Warsaw Rd Dry Ridge, KY 41035 859-428-9220 frankemood@aol.com www.2pointfarmalpacas.com

Celeste Kreiensieck and Bob Cross Thunder Mountain Alpacas 21518 NE 192nd Ave Battle Ground, WA 98604 360-666-4553 tmalpacas@aol.com www.ThunderMountainAlpacas.com Barbara Linley Ambleside Pam and Bill Kunke 345 Foxhow-Cundare Rd Creekside Natural Farm Berrybank, Victoria, Australia 3323 1221 Bell Rd + 0438897147 Minooka, IL 60447 barbara.linley@bigpond.com 815-467-5259 www.amblesidealpacas pam@creeksidenaturalfarm.com www.creeksidenaturalfarm.com David Litoff Honeycomb Alpacas Susie and Wayne Kunzman 310 W Spruce St Green Valley Alpacas LLC Louisville, CO 80027 5966 Walina Ct SE 303-859-7655 Salem, OR 97317 dlitoff7@yahoo.com 503-781-2342 www.honeycombalpacas.com smkunzman@centurylink.net www.derwyddalpacas.com Margaret Long and Susan Simonton Lorrie Lake Little Gidding Farm Suri Alpacas Loving Life Alpacas 17585 Eagle Ave 34706 Minesinger Trail Lester Prairie, MN 55354-7831 Polson, MT 59860 320-224-4204 406-261-8772 l lgfsuris@broadband-mn.com lovinglifealpacas@gmail.com www.lgfsuris.com

George and Maureen Lossmann Rolling Thunder Alpacas, Inc.’ 1219 S. Blackhawk McHenry, IL 60051 847-366-4874 glossmann@comcast.net www.rollingthunderalpacas.com Robert, Pamela and Wendy Lundquist Snow Pond Farm 2 Winter St Windham, NH 03087 603-883-7582 info@snowpondfarm.com www.snowpondfarm.com Cora Belle Marburger Next Chapter Alpacas 801 Middle Cove Drive Plano, TX 75023 214-864-2176 nextchapter.alpacas@gmail.com http://nextchapteralpacas.com Alison R. Marschewski Two Trees Alpacas 6395 Balcom Canyon Rd Somis, CA 93066 805-216-6022 twotreesalpacas@aol.com www.twotreesalpacas.com Teresa and Joe Maxwell Stone Spring Suri Farm 18 McHenry Rd Cochranville, PA 19330 610-593-6694 mugsy@epix.net www.stonespringsuri.com Ann Mayes Alpacas d’Auxvasse 9266 County Rd 1012 Auxvasse, MO 65231 573-386-3462 annmayes@ktis.net www.alpacasauxvasse.com Alvina Maynard River Hill Ranch 680 River Hill Rd Richmond, KY 40475 859-408-5132 riverhillranch@rocketmail.com www.riverhillranch.us/

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Suri Network Membership Directory Angus and Margaret McColl Yocom-McColl Testing Labs, Inc. 540 W. Elk Place Denver, CO 80216-1823 303-294-0582 ymccoll@ymccoll.com www.ymccoll.com Jill M. McElderry-Maxwell Bag End Suri Alpacas of ME, LLC 226 Snakeroot Rd Pittsfield, ME 04967 207-660-5276 bagendsuris@gmail.com www.bagendsuris.com James and Lorrie McGrew Windy Plains Alpaca Ranch 9504 County Road 13 Arlington, NE 68002-5108 402-278-0600 windyplains@huntel.net www.windyplainsalpacas.com Candy and Ray McMahan and Joe Miller Miller - McMahan Alpacas, LLC 1897 Ashland Rd Ruffin, NC 27326 402-580-5453 candy@mmalpacas.com www.mmalpacas.com Becky and Tom McMillan Magic Willows Alpacas 6340 Arthur Rd Hartford, WI 53027 414-217-5836 btkk@magicwillowsalpacas.com www.magicwillowsalpacas.com Fred and Nancy Medland Paradise Suri Alpaca Farm 11399 Taylor Road Plain City, OH 43064 614-873-4285 f.n.medland@gmail.com www.paradisesuri.openherd.com Kathryn and Ron Medrea M2A Farm Suri Alpacas 32794 N. 2300 East Road Dwight, IL 60420 815-584-9496 m2afarm@gmail.com www.m2afarm.com

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Cathy Mestad Bonsai Acres Alpacas 9225 115th St NW Pine Island, MN 55963 507-254-3454 cathy@mestads.com www.openherd.com/farmalpacas/4487/bonsai-acres-alpacas Thomas and Collene Miller Purdy Lil’ Suri Alpaca Farm, LLC 9454 Taylorsville Rd Huber Heights, OH 45424 937-233-3509 purdylilsuri@earthlink.net www.purdylilsuri.com/ Bryan and Becky Miltenberger Hidden Creek Alpacas 33347 East Punkin Center Rd Hermiston, OR 97838 541-571-0394 hiddencreekalpacas@gmail.com www.openherd.com/farms/4788/ hidden-creek-alpacas David Moran and Lori Wall Crimson Shamrock Ranch PO Box 7 Eglon, WV 26716 304-735-6413 dddmoran@aol.com www.crimsonshamrockalpacas.com Jim and Jean Morgan J4 Alpacas 7711 N. Valley Hill Road Woodstock, IL 60098 815-759-0247 j4alpacas@earthlink.net www.j4alpacas.com Sandra and Ralph Muraca Misty Mountains Accoyo Suris 121 Stoners Hill Road Raphine, VA 24472 540-377-2110 mmas@mmasalpacas.com www.mmasalpacas.com Kent and Sandy Murray Lizard Hill Suri Alpacas 351 Purdy Mesa Road Whitewater, CO 81527 970-243-3520 lhillalpacas@aol.com

Richard and Sharon Musser Shardick Suri Farm 54 Old State Rd Jonestown, PA 17038 717-865-1809 shardick@comcast.net Jennifer Myka Free Radical Ranch 1103 Bracht-Piner Road Morning View, KY 41063 859-462-2344 jennifer@freeradicalranch.com www.freeradicalranch.com Richard and Leanne Nakashima Eldora Suri Alpacas 31941 Hamilton Creek School Road Lebanon, OR 97355-9729 720-840-6585 rna1501@msn.com www.eldorasurialpacas.com Diane and Julian Nicholson Nicholson Alpacas and Llamas P.O. Box 5378 Twin Falls, ID 83303 208-734-5917 Penny Nicol Oak Hill Alpaca 10253 Baldwin Rd Greenville, MI 48838 616-225-0875 oakhillalpaca63@yahoo.com Craig and Page Nitterhouse Shasta Springs Alpacas 1785 Falling Spring Road Chambersburg, PA 17202 717-264-8820 page@shastaspringsalpacas.com www.shastaspringsalpacas.com Gretchen and Airell Nygaard EvenTyr Gaard Alpacas 17600 Fitch Ranch Rd Sonora, CA 95370 209-928-5959 grenygaard@sonnet.com www.e-alpaca.com Onneke O’Brien SuCaya Farms 576 Lake View Dr Smithfield, ME 04978 207-634-2189 sucayafarms@gmail.com https://www.openherd.com/ farms/3933/sucaya-farms-at-thetown-line-house

Laurie Olson-Zorn and Darrell Zorn Oz Alpacas 2450 RD 207 Big Springs, NE 69122 308-778-6300 ozalpacas@yahoo.com www.alpacanation.com/ozalpacas. asp Judy Olukotun Pear Tree Farm 125 Hopewell-Wertsville Rd Hopewell, NJ 08525 609-466-9621 jolukotun@gmail.com Gerhard Oosthulzen 127 Limerick Street Pretoria, South Africa 0157 + 27826223368 gerhard@haas.co.za Dennis and Christy Pace Pacesetter Alpacas 5546 W. Plymouth Church Road Beloit, WI 53511 608-879-2770 psalpaca@ticon.net www.pacesetteralpacas.com Ken and Carla Paton Bijou Alpaca Ranch, LLC 23701 County Road 150 Agate, CO 80101 720-219-3276 cmpaton@gmail.com www.bijoualpacas.com Tracy Pellegrino Faith & Fleece Alpacas 2664 N Mountain Ave Upland, CA 91784 909-579-0664 td.bulldogs@hotmail.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/4136 Michael, Marlene and Jonathan Peltier Mystical Acres Alpacas 9678 N. Co Road, 25-A Sidney, OH 45365 937-492-0776 mysticalacres@yahoo.com www.mysticalalpacas.com

Suri Network Membership Directory Randall and Logan Peters His Way Farm 13207 NW 173rd St Alachua, FL 32615 352-514-6493 pianist4one@aol.com Narvel and Debbie Pettis Sweet Blossom Alpaca Farm 37543 Pappy Road Dade City, FL 33523 813-335-7387 dpettis11@yahoo.com www.sweetblossomalpacas.com Charlene and Russ Piar Thunder Mile Ranch 10879 State Hwy M Wright City, MO 63390 636-544-2200 thundermileranch@gmail.com www.thundermileranch.com Theresa Pitts Deepstep Creek Alpacas 3646 Deepstep Creek Road Sandersville, GA 31082 478-363-3755 alpacas@deepstepcreekalpacas.com www.deepstepcreekalpacas.com Karina and Michael Pomroy Peruvian Link Co. 589 Airline Rd Amherst, ME 04605 207-584-3200 info@peruvianlink.com www.peruvianlink.com Michelle Pressler and William Ward iMpress Alpacas 14036 Clover Rd Rockton, IL 61072 815-713-5234 impressalpacas@gmail.com www.impressalpacas.com Renee Preston Emerald Hills Alpaca Farm 10 Gibson Lane Logsden, OR 97357 541-444-1050 emeraldhillsalpaca@hotmail.com www.emeraldhillsalpaca.com

Bob and Peggy Proctor Funny Farm Alpacas 718 W. Rusk Lane Lecanto, FL 34461 352-212-2968 bobprocter@tampabay.rr.com www.funnyfarmalpacas.com

Jane and Ron Reed Suri Haven 7940 W Barrington Rd Kirkland, AZ 86332 402-314-1323 jane@surihaven.com www.surihaven.com

Ken and Claudia Raessler SuriPaco LLC PO Box 1477 Yarmouth, ME 04096-2477 207-712-5833 claudia@sacoriverdyehouse.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/3148

Doug and Julie Rice R&R Suris 11110 Kubon Rd Montague, MI 49437 231-893-7208 rnrsuris@aol.com www.AlpacaNation.com/ R&Ralpacas.asp

John and Jan Rager Silver Threads Alpaca Ranch 298 L’Esprit Farm Rd LaGrange, KY 40031 502-222-2238 kyrager@bellsouth.net www.silverthreadsalpaca.com

Marc and Nanci Richards March Hare Station 1329 County Road 2400 E Saint Joseph, IL 61873 217-469-2767 bclover@hotmail.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/3919

John Rath and Heidi Coles NAF Management Inc. PO Box 4088 Yakima, WA 98904 509-480-1001 hkcoles@gmail.com Allen and Becky Rebman and Richard, Carol and Andrew Reed Over Home Alpacas LLC 18 Midway Rd Bethel, PA 19507 610-488-1355 overhomealpaca@hotmail.com www.overhomealpacas.com Leslie and Scott Rebtoy Healing Springs Suris PO Box 1400 Westville, OK 74965 918-629-2840 HSSsuris@gmail.com Kathy Reczko Acapella Alpaca Farm 183 Silver Lake Rd Hollis, NH 03049 603-566-6094 kathy.reczko@acappellafarm.com www.AcappellaFarm.com

Jean Riley and Doreen Mylin Alpaca Magic USA 4920 Grover Cleveland Homosassa, FL 34446 352-628-0156 surialpaca@yahoo.com www.alpacamagicusa.com Julie and Ted Ritschard B I Bar Ranch 8720 Moss Rock Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80908 719-495-1279 ritschard1@msn.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/1686 Kate and Ed Robie Ash Hill Alpacas 1605 Carpenter Pike Versailles, KY 40383 404-441-3155 ashhillkentucky@gmail.com Janet and Bob Rodgers Rodgers’ Reserve Alpaca Farm 400 E. Adario W. Rd Greenwich, OH 44837 419-895-9922 jzrodgers77@1791.com www.openherd.com/rodgersreserve

Christine Rogers Whisper Meadows Alpacas 4451 Whisper Lane DePere, WI 54115 920-337-0646 bapackerfan@aol.com www.alpacanation.com/ whispermeadows.asp Daniel Roth and Carol Jawidowicz Our Little Peace of Heaven 30 Bethel Loop Circle Deltona, FL 32738 386-457-0913 caroljawidowicz@gmail.com Donna Rudd Suri Textiles Box 262 Clive, AB Canada T0C 0Y0 403-784-3292 donna.rudd070@gmail.com Steve and Rose Rush Rush Acres Farm, LLC 1580 N Point Prairie Rd Foristell, MO 63348 636-795-2643 rrush69334@aol.com www.rushacresalpacafarm.com Chris and Christiann Schade C Squared Alpacas, Inc. 10825 Hardy Rd Colorado Springs, CO 80908 719-339-5229 c2alpacas@msn.com www.Thealpacamall.com Amy and Dave Self Canyon Country Suri Alpaca Ranch 12500 Bostwick Park Rd Montrose, CO 81401 970-765-6744 gunnisonself@yahoo.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/4970 Donald Seth Alpacas of Namaste Hill 7205 Corvallis Road Independence, OR 97351 503-838-9889 donaldfseth@gmail.com Diane Sheesley Rainbow Mountain Alpacas 2368 St John Rd Punxsutawney, PA 15767 814-939-7079 rainbowmtalpaca@yahoo.com www.rainbowmountainalpacas.com

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Suri Network Membership Tim, Beth and Michael Sheets Heritage Farm Suri Alpacas 4175 N 1200 W Flora, IN 46929 765-566-3077 765-566-3077 www.ourheritagefarm.com

Loren and Judy Stevens Stevens Llama Tique & Suri Alpacas 1449 Red Canyon Rd Canon City, CO 81212 800-469-5262 llamatiq@rconnect.com www.stevenstique.com

Susan Tellez Camelid Alliance - Resource Consulting 3195 Dowlen Rd. #101-313 Beaumont, TX 77706 409-656-2140 sztellez@aol.com

Sheryl and Sheldon Shenk Hay Creek Station PO Box 589 Florissant, CO 80816 719-689-6666 sshenk@datawest.net www.yoursuriconnection.com

Corinne Stevens 12944 Lower Waitsburg Rd Waitsburg, WA 99361-9660 509-386-5009 steveco0626@gmail.com

David, Nancy and Nick TenHulzen Park View All American Alpacas 3001 SW Schaeffer Rd West Linn, OR 97068-9611 503-638-3692 nancy@parkviewalpacas.com www.ParkViewAlpacas.com

Mohammad Sidiq Portage Valley Suri Alpaca Farm 19386 N Dixie Hwy Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-494-3315 mosidiq@gmail.com www.portagevalleyalpacas.com Cindy and Jay Smith Weeping Willow Farm LLC 1265 Cherokee Dr De Leon Springs, FL 32130 386-277-2043 csmith2456@cfl.rr.com

www.weepingwillowfarm.openherd.com

Michael and Anita Smith Triple Z Alpaca Farm (The) 9100 N 000 Rd Decatur, IN 46733 260-724-4809 mikeoftriplez@aol.com www.triplezalpacas.com Kristie and Brion Smoker Sweet Valley Suris 5701 Valley Glen Road Annville, PA 17003 717-867-2897 kristie@sweetvalleysuris.com www.sweetvalleysuris.com Brad and Jandy Sprouse Great Lakes Ranch 5718 S Bohemian Rd Maple City, MI 49664 231-228-3859 greatlakesranch@gmail.com www.greatlakesranch.com Donna and Julius Steiger Steiger Farm 11228 Coyote CV Nampa, ID 83686 208-546-7249 steigerd@msn.com

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Tom and Taya Strausborger Coyote Moon Suri Alpacas 17902 Wesley Chapel Rd Churubusco, IN 46723 260-433-3325 coyotemoonsurialpacas@gmail.com Rick and Kathy Stumpf Prairie Lake Alpacas 13711 John Kline Rd Smithsburg, MD 21783 301-416-0833 kathy@prairielakealpacas.com www.prairielakealpacas.com Gail Stymerski and Al Boyce Answered Prayers Alpaca Ranch 401 N Morgan Rd Tuttle, OK 73089 214-901-8362 stymegai@gmail.com www.answeredprayersalpaca.com Kim Taha Taha Suri Alpaca Ranch, LLC 23109 US Highway 40 Golden, CO 80401 303-704-7928 kim@tahaalpacas.com www.tahaalpacas.com Keiko Takimoto-Makarczyk and Matt Makarczyk Wisteria Suri Ranch 875 County Road 454 Taylor, TX 76574 512-856-2467 keitaki@gmail.com www.wisteriasuriranch.com Victoria Telesko Love Me Alpacas 23253 Cty Rd X Kiel, WI 53042 920-797-9096 vtelesko@aol.com www.LoveMeAlpacas.com

Kerry and Jodi Thompson Patriot Lane Alpacas 80189 Patriot Lane Hermiston, OR 97838 541-720-2194 kjthompson68@gmail.com Dana Tiedeman Riverside Suri Alpacas 33073 Lakeview Dr Lake City, MN 55041 651-380-6336 dtiedeman@yahoo.com www.riversidesurialpacas.com Andy and Cheryl Tillman Tillman Llamas & Suri Alpacas 20510 Swalley Rd Bend, OR 97701 541-389-1065 tlllamas@aol.com www.tillmansranch.com Marcia Traudt M & J Alpaca Farm 32382 Hwy 14 Aurora, NE 68818 402-737-3307 marciatraudt526@gmail.com Gary and Cindy Truitt Weatherd’T Ranch, LLC 11021 County Road 102 Elbert, CO 80106 303-648-9228 info@wtralpacas.com www.wtralpacas.com Kathy and Garry Umscheid Evergreen Acres Alpacas P.O. Box 117 Arden, MB Canada R0J 0B0 204-368-2467 alpaca@evergreenacres.org www.evergreenacres.org

Liz and Chris Vahlkamp Salt River Alpacas/North American Suri Co. 7200 Waterman St. Louis, MO 63130 314-440-1627 saltriveralpacas@yahoo.com www.saltriveralpacas.com Vince and Amanda Vandenbosch Flying Dutchman Alpacas, LLC 65485 Cline Falls Road Bend, OR 97701 831-809-1147 amandafda@earthlink.net www.fdalpacas.com Mike and Elaine Vandiver Old Homestead Alpacas 5260 Stateline Rd Walla Walla, WA 99362 253-232-2853 elmlong@yahoo.com www.oldhomesteadalpacas. openherd.com Al VanMaren and Marianne Kidd ALs PACAs at Dutch Mill Farm 19860 Lembcke Rd Harvard, IL 60033-9653 815-569-4548 avanmaren@aol.com Bill and Heather Vonderhaar Alpaca Bella Suri Farm - ABF 5455 Belwood Lane Morrow, OH 45152 513-899-2304 alpacabella@gmail.com www.alpacabella.com Bob Wargowsky and Kristin Carver Windrider Suri Ranch PO Box 1331 Norwood, CO 81423 970-327-0149 windridersuriranch@juno.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/513 Gail and Paul Wasserstein Andean Vista Ranch 4101 Oak Ridge Road Crystal Lake, IL 60012 847-366-9147 andeanvistaranch@comcast.net www.andeanvistaranch.com

Suri Network Membership Diane Watson Sweet Heart Suri Alpacas 4813 Church St Conneaut, OH 44030 440-224-1868 sweetheartalpaca@hotmail.com www.sweetsurialpacas.com

Jeannie Wells Wellspring Suri Alpacas, LLC 3471 Cerrillos Rd TRLR #56 Santa Fe, NM 87507 210-557-0929 jeanniek13@me.com www.wellspringsurialpacas.com

Kathy and Joe Williams KJ’s Alpaca Ranch 7476 Shepler Church Ave SW Navarre, OH 44662 330-879-2483 kjsalpacas@aol.com www.kjsalpacas.com

Dennis and Rose Watts Thunder River Suri Alpacas 9627 Carlisle Road Dillsburg, PA 17019 717-994-4055 rosewatts59@yahoo.com www.thunderriveralpacas.com

Marilyn Wentworth Alpacas at Phoenix Hill Farm, LLC 8266 Rock Riffle Road Athens, OH 45701 740-591-7669 mw@alpacasatphoenixhill.com www.alpacasatphonexhill.com

Brett and Donna Weeks Grey Meadows Alpaca Farm 1835 Underwood Road Gambrills, MD 21054 301-980-7019 blweeks@comcast.net

Joyce and Greg White Tinkers Creek Alpacas LLC 3851 Sanford Rd Rootstown, OH 44272 330-524-2077 tinkerscreekalpacas@gmail.com

Erin Williams-Kerns and Glenn Kerns AJ’s Alpaca Ranch 7379 Erie Ave SW Navarre, OH 44662 330-791-7097 ajsranch@sssnet.com www.ajsalpacaranch.com

Janell Weeks Country Cottage Alpacas, Inc. 1711 NW Garris Lane McMinnville, OR 97128 503-472-9367 sundowndolphin@gmail.com Jim Weir Wildlife Ranch Suri Alpacas 10500 Wildlife Way Littleton, CO 80125 303-885-3377 wildliferanchsurialpacas@gmail.com http://surimarket.surinetwork.org/ farms/2923 Tim and Dana Welch Purgatory Falls Alpaca Farm 195 Purgatory Falls Road Lyndeborough, NH 03082 603-654-7690 contact@purgatoryfallsalpaca.com www.purgatoryfallsalpaca.com Roger and Gina Welck Twisted Suri Alpaca Ranch 35433 Helium St NW Princeton, MN 55371 612-385-2187 rwelck@msn.com www.TwistedSuriAlpacaRanch.com Deb Wellinghoff Northern Prairie Alpacas, LLC 7470 Jakes Prairie Rd Sullivan, MO 63080 573-627-2341 deb@northernprairiealpacas.com www.NorthernPrairieAlpacas.com

www.tinkerscreekapacas.openherd.com

Sherrel White Housetop Mountain Suri Alpacas 2288 County Road 306 Parachute, CO 81635 970-285-7030 alpacamountain@gmail.com Mary Wilcox High Country Alpacas LLC 3805 E Equestrian Trail Phoenix, AZ 85044-3008 480-296-8588 mary.wilcox2001@gmail.com www.hcaalpacas.com Dick Wilder and Family, Tom Wilder Arcona Alpacas LLC 2409 Arcona Rd Mechanicsburg, PA 17019 717-364-6630 info@arconaalpacas.com www.arconaalpacas.com Mike and Janet Wilkins Wilkins Livestock LLC HC 62, P.O. Box 7221 Star Valley Ranch, WY 83127 402-362-9223 janet@wilkinslivestock.com www.wilkinslivestock.com

William and Traci Wills Roland Valley Suri Alpacas 781 Brookside Dr Bailey, CO 80421 303-667-4074 bwills1956@gmail.com Doug and Deanna Wilner Daydreamer Ranch Alpacas 16019 Green Road Harvard, IL 60033 815-943-7004 alpacas@daydreamerranch.com www.DaydreamerRanchAlpacas. com Dr. Gary Wilson The Midnight Moon Alpaca Ranch 937 Hillside Ave Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-921-0414 garyw@ themidnightmoonalpacaranch.com www.openherd.com/farms/2413/ the-midnight-moon-alpaca-ranch Melinda Kay Wilson Alpaca Bella Suri Farm 1687 Ellis Run Rd Aberdeen, OH 45101 513-247-9645 mwilsonmd@aol.com www.alpacabella.com

Melisa and Terry Yopp Berry Sweet Alpacas 12167 Centerpoint Church Road Prairie Grove, AR 72753 479-871-4304 berrysweetalpacas@gmail.com www.berrysweetalpacas.com Cheryl and Rick Yopp City Girl Alpaca 9 Greak Oak Court North Little Rock, AR 72116 501-753-8480 cryopp@yahoo.com Norm and Mary Zahn Coldwater Creek Alpacas 5254 Younger Rd Celina, OH 45822 419-678-8621 coldwatercreekalpacas@gmail.com www.ColdwaterCreekAlpacas.com Dave and Louann Zapicchi Hobble Hill Farm LLC 1322 Sylvan Rd Perkasie, PA 18944 215-795-0670 hobblehill@msn.com www.hobblehill.com

SURI ENTHUSIAST MEMBERS Angela Echeverria Kansas City, MO Stacy Heydt Marshfield, MO Florence Morehead Wildwood Alpaca Farm Wellborn, FL Sarah Withrow Lees Summit, MO

Mary Yaros First Light Alpacas 3855 Paseo Del Prado Boulder, CO 80301 720-381-0132 maryyaros@yahoo.com

surinetwork.org

65

Advertising Index

AJ’s Alpaca Ranch 7 Alpacas of Oklahoma (Blastoff) 47 Bag End Suri Alpacas of Maine, LLC 37 Bellborne Farm Alpacas 67 B I Bar Ranch 12 Berry Sweet Alpacas 36 Big Timber Alpacas 21 Boulder Hill Alpacas 28 Derwydd Alpacas 28 Eldora Suri Alpacas

back cover

Evergreen Acres Alpacas 37 Experienced Suri Partners 3 Great Lakes Ranch

inside front cover

Hasselbring’s Harmony Ranch 51 Heritage Farm Suri Alpacas 34 Long Hollow Suris/New Era Fiber 26 McCarty Creek Ranch 28 Miller-McMahan Alpacas LLC 17 Over Home Alpacas 8 Peruvian Link

37

Pines Edge Ranch 8 Rogue Suri Alpacas

40-41

Donna Rudd 36 Sie Sutter Suris 53 Southeastern Alpaca Association 23 Sweet Valley Suris 8 Suri Network 16 Triple H Ranch 28 Wings & A Prayer Alpacas 53

66 PURELYSURI

Photograph courtesy of Great Lakes Ranch © 2015