FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions About Alpacas)

Question: What is an Alpaca like?

Answer: Like all living creatures each one demonstrates characteristics unique to itself. Some love apples, some don’t like apples at all. Some are very gentle and almost affectionate. Others don’t want to be touched. Some are leaders…Some are followers. One of the most interesting aspects of raising Alpaca is that each one is has its own personality and temperament.

However, characteristic to the Alpaca is a high level of intelligence. They learn fast and are very adaptable. To this very day we still wonder if we have trained or if we have been trained.

Question: Do Alpaca require a lot of care?

Answer: No, they do not. Alpaca are a relatively low maintenance herd animal whose diet consists mainly of grasses, leaves, hay and specially formulated feed and supplement.
Give them a regular “treat” of feed and mineral supplement to ensure proper nutrition;
Be sensitive to the heat of summer and ensure they can keep as cool as possible;
Maintain a complete preventive medical plan. It’s necessary for you and your local veterinarian to develop a regular schedule of check-ups and preventative medicine application…..By doing so, you will have provided the basics for a long and healthy life;
Sheering is done once a year, usually in the Spring. It’s a time to gather with friends and fellow Alpaca ranchers and all share in the activities and evening festivities;
Regular toenail trimming is a must.

Question: Alpaca are very expensive aren’t they?

Answer: They can be, but not all Alpaca are. If you are considering an Alpaca as a pet you may purchase one for about the same cost as an AKC registered dog. Others, however, may range in price to many thousands of dollars.

Question: I don’t live in the country. Do Alpaca require land?

Answer: Yes, but you don’t. An Alpaca requires more space than the back yard of suburban home or condominium. However, many Alpaca ranchers, including Casa de Campo Alpaca Ranch, offer a program that solves that very situation. It’s called agisting (a term for boarding) and your Alpaca is provided a home away from home. The daily care and needs of your Alpaca is provided for and you are free to visit your animal at any time of your convenience.

Question: How do I get started?

Answer: If you are interested in investigating the Alpaca as a way of life there are many important steps to follow that will help you make your decision.
Determine what you wish to achieve. Is it for:
a. Tax advantages?
b. Retirement?
c. A new life style?
d. A new career path?
e. A secondary income?
Prepare a detailed list of questions and ask every ranch you visit. Ask about :
f. their herd; Huacaya and/or Suri and why?
g. their business goals?
h. will they be there for you?
i. What do they offer?
j. What is their after-sale support and service?
k. What guarantees do the provide?

Casa de Campo Alpaca Ranch . Bob and Laurie Osterling . 421 CR 1358 South . Stephenville, TX 76401
email: casadecamporanch@yahoo.com . ranch: 254-968-6003 . cell: 817-559-9959