Winter 2013 • Number 93
Sapaveco's Soul Sister 2013 ILR-SD Gathering Grand Champion Extreme Heavy Wool Female 2013 ALSA Grand National Reserve Champion Heavy Wool Female 10 time Halter Champion
Thank you Robin and Courtnee Benson of Sapaveco Ranch for allowing us the opportunity to own this amazing girl! Susan Leslie Leslie Lane Llamas La Vernia, Texas
www.leslielanellamas.com leslielanellamas@gmail.com 830-401-0819
Llama & Alpaca Show MARCH 20-23,
2 014
Entry Deadline: Feb. 5 LATE Entry Deadline: Feb. 15
Questions?
Contact Show Superintendent · Danette Mars · hdmccleary@sbcglobal.net
OR livestock@rodeohouston.com · 832 . 667.1125 Entry forms will be available on the Show’s website by Nov. 1. All entries must be submitted on the paper forms.
Winter 2013 Contents General Interest A quarterly publication of the South Central Llama Association.
www.scla.us/scla.html
SCLA OFFICERS (Term 09/2011- 09/2013)
President: Sean Price • 281-830-2368 • figranch@flash.net Vice President: Bill Simpson •(409) 625-0309 OR (972) 978-6229 • N5YA@N5YA.com Secretary: Adryce Mathisen, •682) 551-7799 (cell); (817) 866-4368 • adryce@att.net Treasurer: Bob Lyons • 210-497-3151 • boblyons1@satx.rr.com
REGIONAL DIRECTORS
Region One: (Area codes: 210-361-512-737-830-956) Susan Leslie (09/2011-09/2014) (830)401-0819 leslielanellamas@gmail.com Region Two: (Area cades: 214-405-430-469-479-501-580903-918-972) Bob Carroll (903) 229-8029(Term: 9/2013-9/2016) rcranch1@yahoo.com Region Three: (Area codes:254-325-432-682-817 806-940-915-505) Deborah Ignacio (09/2012- 09/2015) 817-454-8882 deborah.ignacio@yahoo.com Region Four: (Area codes: 281-318-346-409-504-713832-936-979-985) Trisha McKaskle 979-378-20759 (Term: 9/2013 - 9/2016) hitekllama@aol.com Director-At-Large: Jim Doyle (Term: 9/2011 - 9/2014) 940-482-3192: cell 940-391-1862 JDoyle@marikollamas.com
SCLA Members & SCLA States at ALSA Grand Nationals......... 7 How Do We Create a Healthy Livestock Market For Camelids...............12 Llama Restraint when less can be more........................................................15 Llamas in Parades..................................................................................................17 GALA Camelid Research Outcomes In Action.............................................22 What To Wear...........................................................................................................23 Should You Geld Your Pack Llamas?................................................................24 Llama Mamas at Kids n Ewe 2013....................................................................26 SCLA Fundraiser.....................................................................................................27 How To make a Small Pouch or Bag On A Cardboard Loom..................29 . Snake Bite in Camelids.........................................................................................32 The calm-a-lid.........................................................................................................35 Bluetongue Disease in Camelids......................................................................36 Ask the CSU Vet Team...........................................................................................48 US Animal Health Association 2013 Annual Meeting..............................53
Always Inside
President’s Statement............................................................................................4 VP Views.................... .................................................................................................4 . Editor’s Note..............................................................................................................5 New Members..................................................................................................... ......5 Dates Ahead.............................................................................................................. 6 SCLA Library............................................................................................................57 Display Advertisers................................................................................................59 SCLA Membership Form.....................................................................................60
SCLA COMMITTEES
Activities.................................................... No chair at this time Membership..............................................................Karen Conyngham Nomination . ............................Marcie Saska-Agnew-chairperson Property...............................................................Jessie Rierson Fund Raising..................................................................... Open Show............................Jim Doyle • Jessie Rierson • Bob Burton Fiber................................................................Margaret Schulze Youth................................................................ Christie Stewart Finance - Budget..............................Bob Lyons • Dan Johnson Librarian.............................................................Barbara Welch Conference................................................ No chair at this time National Lama Intervention & Rescue Coordination Council (IRC Council)...................................................Sandra Reynolds Scholarship........................................ .........Mary Nell Doyle - Chair .............................Susan Boblyanski, Adryce Mathisen, Brenda Gilmore SCLA Booth............................................... No chair at this time Web site......................................................... Sharon Bramblett By-Laws.................................Jim Doyle, Paul Walters, Bev Johnson
SHOWS - Thanks For Volunteering Your Time!
Bob Burton.....................................................State Fair of Texas-Dallas Jim Doyle............................Southwestern Livestock and Rodeo-Fort Worth Stephanie Clark.........................................West Texas Fair & Rodeo-Abilene Margaret and Kristi Schulze......................San Angelo Livestock Show- San Angelo Danette McCleary......................................Houston Livestock Show
EDITOR/DESIGN/LAYOUT
Ruby Herron 17102 Mueschke Rd., Cypress, TX 77433 713-249-8523 • HummingHerald@FigmentRanch.com
The views expressed herein are those of the authors. Before undertaking any new regime with your llamas, you should always consult with your veterinarian. Only they can tell you what is best for your situation. We invite submission for unpaid articles and photographs. Email to HummingHerald@FigmentRanch.com or mail to: Ruby Herron, c/o Humming Herald,17102 Mueschke Rd., Cypress,Tx., 77433
President’s Statement
VP Views
Christie Stewart, Vice President
Sean Price, President
Hey Guys.
Greetings from Deep East. Texas!
I hope you are all doing well and enjoying this nice cool weather, I’m sure your llamas are!
I hope the finds everyone surviving the weather and all the Llamas and Alpacas enjoying the cold a lot more than the heat this summer and early fall had to offer. I often wonder about our crew...it is raining and cold for this area...Miserable weather from my view...they are out at the hay bales and laying out in the rain. Sure wouldn't want them to get dry in the barn. What can you say? You have to love 'em for all their crazy behavior.
Our 2014 year is about to begin. The llama show in Ft. Worth is the first SCLA llama show of the 2014 season. The exhibitors that attend this show are getting less and less and I’m afraid we may lose this one too! Let’s support it and let’s support all the SCLA llama shows this year! We don’t need to lose any more! Many shows are working with the Fiber of the llamas as well. If this is of interest to you, please help support this part of the show! Fiber use is a good by-product of our llamas. Remember the old question, “What do you do with a llama?” As always, don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions and/or concerns. I hope each of you have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Talk to see you all soon!
Sean 281-830-2368 or sean@figmentranch.com
4
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
We plan on making the trek to San Angelo and hope to see you all there. Have a great Holiday Season and best wishes from our place to yours! Bill Simpson Vice President, SCLA Lost Acres Ranch Milam, Texas
Editor’s Note Well, another year has come and gone in the llama world and for some it has been wonderful and then I am sorry to say for others it has been horrible. I know we have all been there. I have gone for years and everything was smooth and then out of nowhere comes this terrible year. I have found that time heals all. The shows this year were great. Thanks to all the superintendents and all the people that make the shows happen. I hope to see everyone at the show this coming year. And speaking of that................... I was also so proud to see and visit with all of the SCLA members that went to the ALSA Grand National in Shawnee Oklahoma this year! They made the South proud! They brought some great animals and great talent. The ALSA Grand National definitely knew we were there. You will find a story devoted to this inside this Humming Herald. I tried to recognize all SCLA members that attended, but if I missed someone I am so sorry. I also wanted to acknowledge the exhibitors that came from the SCLA states, Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana that are not members but did us proud. It is also time to renew your SCLA membership, or join the SCLA. I know a lot of you out there don’t show and feel you don’t need to renew but …… let me tell you why you need to renew. 1. It helps the llama/alpaca market. 2. It keeps you informed about all the shows. 3. It helps sponsor shows. 4. Keeps the Humming Herald Newsletter going. 5. It keeps you up to date on the latest care for llamas. 6. Alerts from the state veterinarian or extension office. 7. Helps teach you about new information for llama owners, (ex. Fiber). 8. Keeps the SCLA library going. 9. Keeps the SCLA Performance Trailer available for use at SCLA shows. 10. Keeps the SCLA website going. 11. For the love of llamas. I would like to ask you all again. PLEASE help sup-
port your newsletter, the Humming Herald. The rates to advertise, or to just shout out an announcement are located at the end of the newsletter. The rates are very affordable – they vary from $3.50 for a classified ad to $125.00 for a full page color ad. Just contact me, I will help you create anything. Also, if you have a llama interest story that you would like to share with other llama enthusiasts, it is free. Please contact me about this, too! I hope you and your families have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I hope to talk to you all soon! Your Friend
Ruby
713-249-8523
hummingherald@figmentranch.com
New Members August 26 - November 10, 2013 Compiled by Karen Conyngham, Membership Secretary. Current member information is always available on the SCLA web site: http://www.scla.us SCLA Address: PO Box 163654, Austin, TX 78716 New Members: Susan Cottrell 1733 Wychwood Dr. Abilene, TX 79605-5037 (325) 370-7750 smcottrell@suddenlink.net Glen & John McGuire Rising Star Ranch 12609 Blackfoot Trail Austin, TX 78729-7706 (512) 750-5046 glen.e.mcguire@gmail.com 5
Dates Ahead January 23 - 24, 2014 Southwestern Exposition Llama Show 3400 Burnett Tandy Drive Ft. Worth, TX76107 Judge: Cheryl Juntilla-Halter/Performance Other Judges: Johnna Edmunds-Performance Show Contact: Bruce McCarty 817-877-2400 bruce@fwssr.com Show Info: http://www.fwssr.com ----------------------------------------February 23 - 24, 2014 San Angelo Stock Show 200 W. 43rd San Angelo, TX76903 Judge: Margaret Henry Other Judges: Patti Morgan Superintendent Diana Collins 325-716-3602 dcollins1017@suddenlink.net Show Contact: Brittni Kaczyk Show Info: http://www.sanangelorodeo.com -------------------------------------March 20 - 23, 2014 2014 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo 8334 Fannin Street Houston, TX77054 Judge: Patti Morgan Other Judges: David Barboza Show Contact: Danette Marrs 281-731-4437 hdmccleary@sbcglobal.net Allyson Tjoelker Show Info: http://www.rodeohouston.com 6
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
SCLA Breeders List Entry Form If you are a current member of SCLA and wish to be included in the Breeders List, please fill out this form and enclose a check for $15.00, payable to SCLA. Mail to: SCLA, PO Box 163654, Austin, TX 78716. Name:_____________________________________ Ranch Name:_______________________________ Address:___________________________________ City, State, Zip:______________________________ Phone:_____________________________________ Fax:_______________________________________ Email:_____________________________________ URL:______________________________________ Description of your ranch (stud service, bloodlines, training, etc.). Limit: 45 words. Please print! ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ List number of each (optional): F Llamas_____ M Llamas_____ Geldings_____ F Alpacas_____ M Alpacas_____ Geldings_____
Deadline to be included: January 31, 2014
SCLA Members & SCLA States Represented At The 2013 ALSA Grand Nationals Georgia
Hunter Snow,
Louisiana
Hunter’s Hopes & Dreams ALCL Steeler Suri Male Yearling PVL Maveick Blue Waves LWM Juve ALCL Payday LWM yearling ALCL Quinccee HWM Juve 2Bit2 Kenosha, NB yearling Typhoon’s Perfect Storm NB 2 year old Moose Hill’s SPIRIT OF Blue Thunder, Novice Ob Novice Pack, Novice PR Celian’s Simply Irresistable, Novice OB Pack PR Typhoon’s Perfect Storm, Inter showmanship, judging Interm. OB PacK PR
Athens 3rd place 1st place & Reserve Champion 3rd place 3rd place 1st place 4th place 13th 5th place 12th place 13th place, 8th place, 19th place 1st place 3rd place 12th place, 10th place, 10th place
Wattigney,Patti & Keith P. K.'s Mini Farm, LLC Belle Chase PK’s Smoke’s Dark Design HWM Juve 2nd place PK’s Smoke’s Didja Neaux HWM Yearling 1st place PK’s Smoke’s Aces HWM 2 year old, 5th place Sapaveco’s Primavera Suri Female Juve 1st place ALCL Cindi Rella Suri Female, Yearling 3rd place WSL Big Smoke, GOS, 2nd Place
Oklahoma Abel,Christian True Friends Llamas Abel,Malachi (sub Jr) True Friends Llamas Bodkin, Pat & Don Bodkin Barn Yard Heredon,Donna Hatcreek Acres Herrera,Tasha Rainbow Farms Hollman,Betty & Terryl True Friends Llamas
Turpin Tuepin Edmond Muskogee Tyrone Turpin
7
Jim, Rebekah Bodkin Barn Yard Bod B Jitterboy Int. Showmanship Judging Int Obst Pack PR Loomis,Logan Rain Bow Farms Owen,Jamie Sandi Lonely Pine on Ribbett Ridge Ross,Marcia & David Del Mirago Farm Thomas,Roger & Penny Bluestem Acres Private Stripe MWM Adult
Texas
Edmond 9th place 1st place 3rd place 1st place 3rd place Grand Champion Tyrone Broken Bow Stillwater Claremore 1st place
Agnew /Bob Burton,Marcie-Saska 2Bit2 Ranch SunSet Cote ‘de Pablo LWM Adult 1st place I’ll have A Nutter Smile MWM Yearling 1st place 2Bit@ Hannah Jane MWF Juve 5th place 2Bit2 Hop HWM Juve 5th place Pablo’s Texas Wildfire Advanced, OB 10th place, Pack, 11th place, PR 10th place Anderson,Michael Leslie Lane Farms LaVernia Sapaveco’s I’m your Huckleberry interm. Showmanship, 4th place judging 4th place Anderson,Tiffany Leslie Lane Farms LaVernia Leslie’s Chantilly Lace, Sen. Showmanship, 8th place judging 3rd place Sweet Dreams Optimus Prime, Sen. OB 6th place, PacK 9th place, PR 4th place Andruss,Bryso Leslie Lane Farms LaVerina Benson,Robin & Courtnee Sapaveco Ranches Florence GNLC Crocket HWM 2 year old, 2nd place Sapaveco’s Milan Suri female yearling 4th place Blank,Pat PnE Ranch Corsicana PNE’s Zoey LWM Juve 3rd place PNE’s Lady Gaga LWF Yearling 5th place PNE’s Man ‘o War MWM Juve 3rd place PNE’s Breezy MWF Juve 7th place Carroll,R. Cody RC Ranch Corsicana Darcy’s Q-tip, Senior alpaca OB 1st place, PK 1st place, PR 2nd place Grand Champion Whitey Locks, Sen. Showmanship, 4th place judging 6th place
8
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Sen. OB 7th place, PacK 4th place, PR 2nd place Doyle,Mary Nell & Jim Mariko Llamas Krum Figment Ranch,Robin / Ruby/Sean Figment Ranch Cypress Figment’s Jorge MWM Juve 5th place Figment’s Jorge Novice OB 17th place, Pack 15th place, PR 10th place Domino’s Domy Novice OB 4th place, Pack 5th place Figments Galley, Novice OB 6th place, Pack 3rd place, PR 5th place Caledo’s Chili Mac, Masters OB 3rd place, Pack 6th place, PR 3rd place Figments Wilde B’mer Masters OB 4th place, Pack 2nd place, PR 1st place, Reserve Champion Gilmore,Jay & Brennda Doubleback Farm Boyd DB Barnabus LWM adult 3rd Place DB ECHO LWF Yearling 3rd place DB Electra LWF Adult 4th place DB Chinuk, LWF Adult 5th place Ignacio,Deborah Llama Bama Acres Mineral Wells Sapaveco’s Taste of Champagne MWF Juve 6th Place La Rosa’s Hi Ho Silver HWM Juve 1st place & Reserve Champion Sapaveco’s Willa’s Precious Memory HWF Yearling, 2nd place Johnson,Bev & Dan DBJ Ranch Giddings Hitter’s Grand Slam HWM 2year old, 3rd place Jones,Darby Leslie Lane Farms LaVerna CTERS Precious Metels, Sen showmanship, 6th place judging 4th place Sen. OB 8th place, Pack 3rd place, PR 7th place Jones,Tamara 31 Wild Rose Ln Stockdale Leslie,Susan Leslie Lane Farm LaVernia Leslie’s Chantilly Lace LWF Yearling 1st place & Reserve Champion Sapaveco’s Soul Sister HWF Yearling, 1st place & Reserve Champion Sapaveco’s Poker Face NB 2year old, 3rd place 2nd place, Tapestry’s Jacob de Colour, Advanced OB Pack 1st place, PR 1st place, Gr. Champ
9
Miraculous Forest, Advanced OB 1st place, Pack 3rd place, PR 2nd place, Reserve Champ Sapaveco’s Poker Face, Novice OB 3rd place, Pack 2nd place, PR 6th place, Reserve Champion Spring’s Fine’ Storme, Novice OB 2nd place, Pack 1st place, PR 3rd place Grand Champion SR Wisteria’s Ranger, Advanced Alpaca, OB 1st place, PK 1st place, PR 1st place, Grand Champion Loscuito,Cristina Powell PNE’S Candyman Sr Obst. 10th place Sr Pack 7th place Sr Pr 10th place Mathisen,Adyrice Bahama Llamas Burleson 2Bit2 Maximus Supreme HWM yearling 2nd place Little Bit of Sunshine Novice OB 15th place, Pack 17th place, PR 11th place Roe,Carolyn & Robert C n R Llamas Ellinger Incayama Patriot LWM Adult 4th place CNR’s Moon Struck Phanton MWM adult 5th place GNR’s Guinevere’s Memory MWF 1st place Rutledge,Zoe Leslie Lane Farms LaVernia Sapaveco’s Marathon junior showmanship, 3rd place judging 1st place Sapaveco’s Marathon, junior OB 2nd place, Pack, 1st place, PR 1st place Grand Champion White,Bobbie & Tanner La Vernia White,Tanner Leslie Lane Farms LaVernia Tex of SR Wisteria, Junior alpaca OB 2nd place, Pack 2nd place, PR 2nd place Reserve Champ Sapaveco’s Poker Face showmanship, 4th place judging 2nd place Lil Scott, Junior pack, 3rd place, OB 3rd place, PR 3rd place
10
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Brennda & Jay Gilmore Premier Display Winner at the 2013 ALSA Grand National.
Wilson County Texas 4-H Llama Project Group at the 2013 ALSA Grand National.
11
How Do We Create a Healthy Livestock Market for Camelids? Quality, is a big factor in a healthy livestock market. With a surplus of animals available all over the country, it is even more important to be focused on breeding the best in smaller numbers. Quality over quantity helps to keep the best animals and not flood the market with an excess of pet and rescue animals. Even breeding best to best, there are still animals that do not turn out with the positive traits they should have. Temperament, conformation, fiber, bloodlines, milking abilities, reproductive soundness and genetics should all be considered in this equation. An end use for pet quality animals (what about those boys?) is really important to maintaining a strong market. Putting those pet quality animals out there to breed or to eventually become rescues can hurt your market. There are potential buyers out there who believe you can get anything for cheap or free. These same people have no issue with breeding these low end animals. You can help to alleviate this issue by: • Carefully screen all potential buyers and weed out people that are obviously looking for a good deal to breed. A quick sale now, will in the end make more work for you when they start breeding your same lines they bought for cheap. Also, nothing is more embarrassing and heartbreaking than to find out animals that came from you are in a neglectful situation. • Good contracts keep people honest and discourage them from not taking care of the animals you sell them. Contracts can outline basic care expectations, non-breeding arrangements, dates they must be gelded by and even notification to you if they can no longer keep the animals. • Not everyone is meant to own camelids. It is okay to talk someone out of buying them or refusing to sell to them. Responsible potential buyers will respect you for this. • Newbies should never be sold breeding stock or pregnant animals. In 30 years of ownership and many years of rescue, I have seen a lot of issues arise from inexperienced owners with pregnant animals and babies. Most new owners lack the experience in care and training to adequately do justice to baby camelids. Many of these babies end up overhandled and aggressive. It is so hard for a new owner to envision a cute baby 12
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
being aggressive as a 2-3 year old.
Training is very important to ensure lifelong ownership of your animals. Rarely do you find sweet, well trained animals in rescue. At the very least, all animals should easily be haltered, have their feet picked up for toe trimming, load in a trailer and stand for grooming and shots. By giving your animal these basics, you are making it easier for their new owners to take proper care of them. Should the need arise to re-home them, they are much more placeable too! Creating a market for those boys and non-breeding females is important. The horse industry was on the brink of crashing years ago, when they developed a strong market for geldings. This was done by adding a lot of different classes for all types of ability and performance levels. Today a nice and well trained gelding can go for more than most breeding stock. Most horse people seek out and buy geldings over the other options available. As an industry, we need to focus on setting up and creating this type of scenario. The right animal for the right job. Far too many camelids are sold or placed in jobs that they lack the training, skills and ability to do. What results is a disenchanted owner who either dumps the animal/s or loses interest. How can you sell someone an animal for packing, driving, 4-H etc. if you have no experience or knowledge of those jobs as the breeder? In the horse world, someone would be laughed at if they bought a Clydesdale and showed up to a cutting event. Many of my rescues are failed guardians, packers and 4-H animals. Ill suited animals are the worst advertisement for camelid ownership. When people watch a youth dragging a llama or alpaca around at a fair, it doesn’t leave them with the impression that they are fun to own. When a llama lays down on the trail a mile or so into a trip, it gives the impression that they stink as packers. Making a short term placement or sale, can make a long term problem. Sell your animals into situations they are suited for and can be successful at. Guarantee them too in your contract. Paint a realistic portrayal of animal ownership. Anybody who owns a breeding farm will tell you it is work as the animals do not take care of themselves. There are a lot of ups and downs and it can be expensive. I always tell people that if you take proper care of your animals and train them, you won’t make money. Animals require 24/7 care and you can never predict when a vet bill is going to happen. If you have a breeding operation is a lot more work than just having a few pets. Hay prices have gone up significantly as have grains, vet services, fuel costs, building supplies and more. Putting in fencing, shelters and more can add up. Starting a farm is not cheap. Some people are in love with the idea of owning a farm, but have not stopped to consider all of these things. I always love hearing that they are going to breed for fiber and think this will be a money making venture. Fiber sales never amount to the other costs incurred. By being honest, you are potentially heading off a future rescue or neglect situation involving your animals. Some people really are led to believe they are going to make a lot of money breeding camelids. Baby camelids should never be sold to new livestock owners. As referenced above, new owners do not know how to train usually and lack the proper boundaries to raise a young animal. By providing them with a stable pair of adults (geldings or females) they are getting an animal that is already “What you see is what you get.” Babies go through so many stages and behavior issues as they mature. A new owner struggles
with them and lacks the experience to recognize and deal with the issues. I rarely find that my adult placed or sold animals end up back with me. People enjoy them because they are trained. Mentorship is very important for first time owners. Having someone to call and ask questions or help when small issues arise is invaluable. Prior to buying or taking any animals home, it is really nice to go and help with herd health and daily care. This helps the owners know what to expect and how to care for their own animals. It also allows time for them to not only find the right animals, but to get their place set up for them in advance. Good breeders care enough about their animals to help their new owners. Given the current state of the economy and the costs of everything on the rise, it now is time to reconsider our industry approach to breeding, training and selling. With some careful adjustments we can weather this tough economy and remain strong. Remember to always treat people the way you would want to be treated when doing business! Niki Kuklenski and her husband Jeff are very involved with all aspects of owning llamas. They have owned two ALSA Elite Champions, several ALSA/ILR Performance and Halter Champions, 2003 ALSA National Performance Champion and the 2011 ILR Gathering of Friends Advanced Performance, Adult Showmanship and Pleasure Driving Champion. Additionally, they have two Delta Society Registered Therapy Llamas. Niki is an ALSA/ILR Judge and middle & high school substitute teacher. Niki and Jeff drive, show, pack, therapy work, rescue and educate with their llamas. Niki’s passion is llama history and memorabilia. She spends most of her free time tracking down old pictures and llama owners to help preserve our industry's history. 360-592-2603 http://www.nas.com/~jnkllamas jnkllamas@nas.com
Llama restraint; when less can be more While we all might agree it would be great if every llama would just stand calmly and let us do whatever is necessary, that is seldom the case. A safe and well designed llama restraint chute is preferred because it offers multiple levels of control. Not having proper restraint for a non-compliant llama causes stress for the llama and the possibility of injury to the animal and the handler. I have found it best to start out with a minimum level of restraint. That may be all that is needed for that particular animal. We can always add more restraint as required. If we start out using full restraint we are not really giving the llama a chance to demonstrate how well he can behave. The least amount of restraint often may be in a round pen of panels or in a stall where the llama's movement is constrained. The
confined space may be just enough to allow the llama to stand for most simple procedures. Sadly, sometimes restraint takes the place of basic training. If a llama is restrained every time we ask for a foot as during nail trimming then restraint will always be needed for this routine procedure. Taking time to train a llama to give up a foot before it is necessary to do nail trimming will go a long way and make the chore less stressful on both of you. When training, remember hold the foot when the llama struggles and release it immediately when he stops. To trim toes, it is important not to just grab the foot. Try instead running your hand down from the shoulder on the outside of the llama moving to the inside and down the leg, letting the llama know where you
are going. If you repeat this each time you wish to pick up the animal's foot they will learn the routine and not be surprised. When you do pick up the foot remember you are asking him to balance on three feet. When lifting front feet I will use my body to offer the llama additional support. With rear legs I am basically halfway under the llama resting his lower leg on my knee much like a work table. With a little practice you can make this routine task quick and stress free for both of you. Many other routine chores can be done without restraint or a chute. Most injections can be done by using a crowding method, meaning putting four or more animals in a round pen or stall. This should slow them down enough to quickly give injections. If more restraint is needed simply 15
cross tie a llama in a corner of the barn or stall. Tie the lead rope attached to the halter ahead straight into a corner. Use the rings on each side of the halter to tie additional leads off to the sides thereby limiting the forward and rear movement of the animal. This however will allow the animal movement from side to side or to try to kush. Remember in all cases to use a quick release knot so if you encounter any difficulty you can free the llama quickly. With a well trained animal you can use your body as an additional restraint. When you push against the animal it will push back giving you access to work on the other side of the body. There are many times when more restraint is called for. This could include shearing, drawing blood, fighting teeth, treating an abscess or
16
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
many other medical issues. For these procedures having a good, well made chute can become invaluable. My choice of chute is the portable, fully collapsible chute developed by a good friend from Pennsylvania, Carol Reigh. I have put hundreds of animals in this chute and have found it to be safe and reliable. This chute allows for the side posts to be used either horizontal or vertical. In practice I have used the posts only in a vertical position. When walking the animals into the chute I leave one vertical post out on the left front to allow me to exit the chute as the llama enters to the front section of the chute. When bringing the llama into the chute do not turn around and face the animal. Just march right in expecting them to follow. In the case of a llama who shows reluc-
tance to enter the chute try bringing them through the side and go right through. Do this procedure three or four times to build his confidence before trying the long way in again. Remember to tie the lead up front using a quick release knot. If more restraint is needed a belly band can be used on those animals that try to kush. Sometimes when a llama starts to act up they may simply need a bathroom break. The goal in any restraint is to reduce the stress of the llama so remember to communicate your intentions to the animal. Remember that you should never leave a llama unattended in any form of restraint. Hope these tips make working with your animals easier. Barn Yarns By Marc Page Reprinted from the GALA Newletter, vol. 28, #3, August 2013.
Llamas in Parades
by Vicky Southwick
Everybody loves a parade, and parades are an excellent way to showcase your llamas and present a positive image to the public. While this sounds as though it would be so easy to just jump in and go, there are a few key factors which will make the experience far more positive for both the llamas, their handlers, and any- one who interacts with them along the way. There will be occasions where your participation is requested by a member of the parade committee or perhaps the superintendent, and there will occasions where you are seeking permission to participate. There are a few considerations in either case If you have been invited, make sure it is an “official” invitation and everyone knows you are coming! It is usually pretty easy to find out who is charged with the overall event coordination and give them a quick call or send an e-mail (read receipt requested) to
verify plans. Some parades have themes so if it is not plainly stated, it is worth inquiring. Also ask if there are any judging rules. Some parades have trophies for specific entries. Remember that many parades these days are fundraising events for various charities or perhaps even the township itself. Clarify how event fees are determined. If the initial plan is to participate as the “XY 4-H club” as well as the SSLA (for instance), that could well generate two fees. It may be that the group needs to be registered under one “banner” or the other. Then the group can determine if/how each sub-group wants to distinguish themselves (t-shirts, banners, flags, etc). The idea here is one entry fee! If you are submitting an application through a web site or other means, if acknowledgement is not received at least 3-4 weeks prior to the event,
follow up to ensure all is in order. Sometimes “the committee” is in a quandary regarding whether llamas should participate at all – this is your chance to present your case! If the parade is going to have an announcer then prepare a short bulleted overview of basic information. Never let them “freelance” as the last thing anyone wants to hear is “look at all those llamas and they SPIT!” Pre-Planning/Parade Line-up Once you have confirmed your participation, it will be important to determine where the organizers have planned to place llamas in the parade. The earlier you know that the better, as there are several situations which can make for a miserable experience and you want to be able to negotiate before plans are set. Sometimes the application will have a space to designate “special requirements”, etc so obviously a good place to enter that info and request a call to discuss. 17
One tip is to look on their website (if there is one) to check participants in previous events. That should give you an idea regarding what you will need to steer away from. When we neglected to realize that a small town night parade consisted of quite a number of decorated driving lawn mowers, a bit of last minute scrambling was required prior to the line-up! Considerations for placement As far forward as you can get is best,
although many parade coordinators don’t want anything that poops up front. More in regards to that later, but the best thing about being in front is shorter staging time, and you can see the parade since you can stand at the end and watch the remaining participants pass by. It also makes it far easier for the organizer 18
to juggle the groups since we usually come up with a fair number of potential “issues” in regards to placement.
local hot rod club or even a motorcycle contingent as everybody feels compelled to repeatedly rev their engines.
Fire engines or other vehicles which may turn their sirens on and off can be rather startling if they are in close proximity Llamas will often spook horses so we ask that they be separated for the safety of all participants. This is usually not an issue as most have horses near the back. The discussion needs to extend to staging locations as well to ensure
Most parades request that groups refrain from throwing out candy or other items but there are still some parades which allow this. If that’s the case you want to ensure some distance because if they are throwing out candy or small toys, kids run into the street from the sides, usually screaming.
they are not in close proximity there either as they will spend far longer in staging than in the actual parade! In front of the high school band is also not a great place to be – the trumpets and drums can be jarring to some llamas and they are so jumpy and nervous nobody has a good time. The aforementioned lawn mowers, the
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
We participated in a large parade where a group threw out “glitter poppers”. The unexpected popping noise was quite disrupting and it was cause for worry as the animals tried to head for the hills. An unprepared handler could have easily lost control of their animal. NOTE If you are participating in a night parade for the first time, each and every one of these “gotchas” are enhanced and you can also add: ensure you are not positioned right behind the strobing police lights! Not only are the lights alarming to many animals but the police enjoy letting off a few periodic “whoops” as well! Parking & Staging Depending on the size of the parade and the experience of the Coordinator, arrangements can become an interesting discussion. They need to understand that they will be “x” number of trucks/trailers that need pull through access and a bit of elbow
room. Trying to navigate a parking lot full of cars without enough room to tie animals to the sides of the trailer or set up a portable pen is a disaster in the making. Ensure you understand the route you are to take as streets are often blocked off well in advance of the parade. Ensure you are aware if there is a charge for parking so you can be appropriately prepared. You may have an assigned parking area but if not, it is best to get there early and stake out a place where you can establish a quiet area to prep the llamas. They draw a crowd anyway but it can be extremely distracting when you have a lot of animals to get ready. Often we ask a volunteer to do “crowd control” to keep everyone back from the animals and answer questions. It often works well to present one or two calmer animals to those assembled so they take the brunt of all of that and the interactions can be more easily managed. Remember that the average person is NOT livestock savvy and will approach an animal from behind to pet them or allow their children to pull the wool on their hips and back legs – all an invitation to a potential kick. Even an animal who is not prone to kicking might offer up a surprise! It is best not to allow the public to offer any treats to the llamas at any time as the
last thing we want is a spitting war! At home prep
This could (and probably should) be stripped out, enhanced, and used as an entirely separate companion article. Basically if the llama is comfortable, the llama walker and the crowd will enjoy the parade. Start with basics – perhaps a lightweight decorated felt “blanket”. For seasonal parades you can go to Michaels or most other craft shops and buy large decorated felt bags that can be sewn together at the
top and arranged to hang down on each side of the animal. You can place something inside to weight them a bit at the bottom or puff them out. Some folks have sewn throw rugs together.
If the llama has experience with packs, there is nothing the matter with decorating those as you can carry all sorts of snacks and drinks to make the waiting around go faster! If not using a pack saddle, make sure each costume has at least one strap to secure it – two are better (fore and aft), especially if the material is thin. That way the llama is not distracted by anything shifting or flapping on a windy day. Ensure the straps are made of something that will not catch the wool (old men’s ties are nice!) they are long enough and that wool is not
being pulled or skin being pinched where they tie. Repeat that check in the staging area and during the parade route if the llama gets jumpy. If you have moved on to a more challeng19
ing costume then be sure to practice with the llama at home ahead of time. Pack saddles make a fantastic base but if that is not feasible, pool noodles come in handy when placed horizontally on either side to keep all weight directly off the animal’s spine. Also, keep in mind anything that dangles off the costume may get tangled in the llama’s wool and things dangling in front of their knees will often cause them to kick. Likewise, if you intend for them to wear a hat, be certain to practice with that as well. Velcro attachments to the halter help keep things in place but be certain any holes cut for ears do not allow the base of their ears to touch – cut extra wide so if anything shifts they won’t shake it off.
Bring a “costume emergency kit” with pins, tape, cable ties, scissors, etc. Contents will depend upon the costumes and their construction. Just assume something will come undone!
If you use safety pins, place them so they will not poke the llama if accidentally opend. We tape the ends to prevent this.
If you have a large number of inexperienced volunteers, while waiting in the staging area for the parade to start, go over llama safety and parade guidelines with the entire group. Remind the walkers to watch behind them, and for those following to safeguard the ones in front. People have been known to pop out of the crowd grabbing at the wool for souvenirs.
When you put things on the halter keep in mind what ramifications there might be if the llama shook its head or put its head down. Not only do you want to be certain anything on the side of the halter will not whack the llama in the eyes but you also don’t want it dragged thru the poop pile when they lean down to check things out!
The handlers should consider layering as it can be freezing while you are standing around early in the morning but warms up considerably once the sun comes out. For really big (i.e. long) parades, we try to have at least one animal with decorated packs so we can throw all our stuff in there. Bring a container of poop to establish a poop pile. Parade management
Bag all components of a single costume together and label with the llama’s name. That way you can just hand off a bag to someone and they can get them ready. 20
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
The llama would bounce around and the walker would have to calm the situation. Review the parade rules which usually restrict stopping and talking to the crowd during the parade. This slows down the parade, causes gaps in the entries, and most importantly it increases the liability for the parade organizers. Encourage the group to stay together, but still maintain a reasonable distance between animals to keep llama noses out of other llama butts etc. If you have a group of llamas which contains intact males, it is a courtesy to keep the females at the back of the group. Most larger parades will police the crowds but it is always wiser to keep the animals as close to the middle of the road as possible. Less experienced animals should be bracketed by those who are calmer and more experienced. Of course familiar herd mates are preferred if possible. Remember that animals on the right side of the street are more exposed as their handler is typically on the left and can-
not act as a buffer. Therefore calmer, more experienced animals should be placed on the right if possible. There are always llamas who want to lead the group and others more comfortable following. Sometimes during the parade the line up will rearrange itself. Unless there is some overriding reason, it is best to just let each animal find their place or you will be fighting them all the way down the street. The herd leaders should be where all the llamas from that farm can see and get signals from the leader. If there is a large group, it is a great help to have an unencumbered person following the group, as they can see any problems developing or if any of the handlers are struggling for any reason. Often we will switch off llamas to pair them up with a better match – they need to have fun too!
Not all parades make a full circle back to the beginning. Some parades walk straight away from the starting area, leaving you to find a way back through the public to the trailer. Llamas typically have about a 4 hour window of patience, then the humming and dancing begins. The sooner they can get settled back in the trailer the better, so plan your route! It is important to remind all the llama walkers in the group to stay together to help the llamas maintain herd comfort. It is considerate to stay with the group so that everyone is accounted for at the end of the parade.
The longer the route back to the trailer the more public situations will arise as people tend to flock to them and gather around them. Tired, cranky and sometimes nervous animals are not the very best. All of this together sounds daunting, but it is meant to cover a wide array of situations and a lot of it is second nature once you have participated in various events. The primary objective is to think ahead so you are sure to have a good time and show the public how much fun these animals can be! Reprinted from the GALA Newsletter, vol. 28, #3, August 2013.
A volunteer for poop patrol is essential. If a long parade, a decorated child’s wagon can carry a bucket so there is a ready repository. The biggest challenge is if one stops to “go” it is inevitable that a large majority of the rest will too so you may need to consider adding another volunteer for large groups. Note: Often offering that you have a designated ‘scooper” will get you a position closer to the front of the parade! 21
GALA CAMELID RESEARCH OUTCOMES INACTION By Hilary Ware - Lama Medical Research Group representative for GALA
In this final report GALA received from the Morris Animal Foundation on a 2010-2012 project we supported, members can see the value of the research translated directly into practical information, in this case for our veterinarians. When studies are conducted on either species of domestic camelids, the results can often be helpful for both species. Florfenicol Pharmakokinetics in Healthy Adult Alpacas, Evaluating Two Commercially Available Drug Formulations. Dr. Daniela Bedenice, VMD, Tufts School of Veterinary Medicine, Grafton, MA Antibiotic Florfenicol Validated in Healthy Alpacas Bacterial infections requiring long-term antibiotic therapy, such as pneumonia, peritonitis, sepsis, and uterine and dental infections, are significant causes of illness and death in alpacas. Veterinary care for these animals is hampered by a lack of information about antimicrobial use in camelids (llamas and alpacas). Florfenicol is a broad-spectrum antibiotic whose efficacy has been shown to vary among species and between different drug formulations. Researchers from Tufts University worked to determine the appropriate dosage for use in alpacas. This study evaluated subcutaneous and intramuscular administration of two commercially available formulations of florfenicol (Nuflor® and Nuflor Gold®) in healthy adult alpacas, to determine the drug's ability to maintain the plasma drug levels necessary to be effective, without inducing adverse effects. Both Nuflor® and NuflorGold® are variably absorbed following injection under the skin in this species. However, Nuflor Gold® injections lead to substantially higher drug levels compared to the same dose of Nuflor® and were associated with fewer complications following long-term use. This year Morris Animal Foundation is accepting new proposals for camelid research projects due in by mid-July. Review by their Scientific Advisory Board and acceptance or rejection will take place in October. MAF evaluates every proposal on the basis of: 1) scientific merit and design 2) relevance (is the disease or condition causing high morbidity or mortality in the population?) 3) impact (might this study information have a significant impact on target population?) 22
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Strict requirements on providing for pain control, detailing possible pitfalls, meeting MAF goals, and expected successes add to the thorough documentation researchers are asked to submit. The Lama Medical Research Group's [LMRG] job is to review projects and give input mostly on #2 & #3, above, from the community's perspective. A study that exhibits good science is considered first and foremost. LMRG reps are notified of the accepted studies and then suggest a particular study or studies to their organizations to consider for funding. This, in a nutshell, is how GALA has supported so many useful research projects over the years. We may in the future consider studies coming through other responsible and peer reviewed organizations if there is not a relevant and applicable choice offered through MAF in a given year. That would be a GALA Board decision, with membership input. GALA members, you have always done admirable work supporting valuable research. Thank you. Reprinted from the GALA Newsletter, vol. 28, #3, August 2013.
What To Wear ? I didn’t want what happened to me, happen to you! This incident happened at the end of July when we were doing the beginning vaccinations for our crias. It was hot outside and naturally I had on my shorts, which is the dress code for summers in Houston. Robin was pulling the shots, and I would hold the babies while Sean gave the shots. This has been our routine for years. One particular baby decided to leap up in the air and on the way down she dug her toenail into my leg. It was a fairly deep cut but nothing I felt needed Doctor’s attention. We proceed to clean up the wound and bandage it, and then proceeded with the vaccinations. I changed the dressing several times, but after a couple of days I noticed it was looking pretty nasty and there were red streaks going down my leg. I felt this was not good so I went to my family doctor whose only comment was, “O my”. He sent me to a wound specialist and it took a once a week visit for four months. (Some of these photos show the Doctor cleaning out my wound which involved a lot of pain!) The reason I am writing this article is to try and keep someone else from going through what I went through! Watch a cut or bite that you get from a llama or alpaca. Even though we may not want to imagine this, our guys are not clean! Do not just assume that your cut is nothing and it will just heal. Watch it very closely. I realize now why most everyone wears jeans and closed shoes while working with llamas. The problem is that I am always in my shorts , crocs or flip flops. I’m sure that I am not the only one that dresses this way, but now I change my clothes before I go to work with the llamas! Ruby
23
Should You Geld Your Pack Llamas?
By Al Ellis
My wife and I originally started breeding to produce our own personal packers. It turned into a mission and a desire to provide jobs for our llama "boys" by introducing people to llama packing. We started outfitting about 14 years ago. Because of this we have been in the somewhat unique situation of needing all of the packers we were able to produce. Until recently our "boys" grew up and never left home, about 100 adult and teenage males, so we were able watch them throughout their career. From this we have reached a few interesting conclusions, one of which we discuss here.
Don't automatically geld your intended packers; this is an irreversible action and deserves careful consideration. It has generally been accepted that males who are not to be used for breeding should be gelded. Conventional wisdom used to believe intact males could neither live together in a herd, nor work together on the trail. That was a whole lot of bunk!! This is not to say there aren't some parameters that need to be considered: age groupings, allotted space, fighting teeth, etc. However there can be a huge downside to gelding your 24
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
packers: possible fallen pasterns and `long bone'. We see many cases where gelded packers are given early retirement due to fallen pasterns, the common term used to describe down in the fetlock, or hyperextension of the fetlock, or weak pastern. I acknowledge this problem is not universal, but it is widespread and serious, so why take the chance if you don't have to. We all want our partners on the trail to be with us as long as possible, and it is a sad day when we have to leave them at home. In the past it was convenient and common practice to geld surplus males as early as 4 to 6 months of age. It was then discovered this early gelding caused the growth plates to remain open longer and resulted in llamas growing taller than their structure could support. This is the origin of the myth that tall llamas can't work and will break down.
These poor llamas along with others that didn't meet the breeder's goals (anything but packing) were marketed as packers. Of course, llamas being the wonderful creatures that they are, tried to do what they were asked, but the majority were physically incapable of extensive packing. Now it is recommended not to geld until the animals are full grown. This solved the growth problem, and this was the practice we followed. We only gelded the animals that were a little too aggressive in their group (12 to 20 intact
males), never prior to 3 years old and up to 7 years old. It only took a few years for us to realize the geldings were starting to break down and their intact counterparts were going strong. We completely stopped gelding a number of years ago and every male we gelded ended up in early retirement, prior to 15 years of age and some at 12. With only a couple of exceptions, the intact males are capable of heavy duty work into their late teens. Arthritis, probably something to do with long cold (lots of -30 degrees F and beyond) winters and many years on the trail, pretty much sets the time for the "gold watch", but most remain up on their pasterns their entire lives. There are some considerations when keeping intact males. The main issue is having enough room for them to settle a dispute when playing ends up with someone getting mad. One acre per llama up to 10 acres is a good rule of thumb. They also need plenty of room at the feeding areas, not too different from dominant females. Spending time on the trail together absolutely re-enforces their cohesiveness as a herd. The whole situation is much simpler if there are no females around. Age is important; keep them in their own age groups until age 4. The boys go through what we refer to as the terrible two's, the equivalent of adolescence in human teenagers. They seem to constantly want to wrestle and chase each other. As they gain size and strength, it looks scary but we feel it really helps to develop their muscle. Their chests and thighs begin to feel like they are made of steel. This starts at age 2 to 2 1/2 and lasts until 4 but some individuals take it to 6. If they are spending time on the trail together, age 4 is the norm. Even though they are approaching full grown and look tough as nails, they are just high school kids. And you don't put high schools kids in the NFL. That is, don't mix 4 year olds with older males. You also need to really keep on top of their fighting teeth. It would be nice if they all erupted at once, or at least if they all came out at the same time in each llama, but this doesn't happen so it is usually several episodes of trimming.
Don't panic at the occasional dust ups, the speed and power they display is awesome. Fortunately serious injuries are extremely rare, and after the fight they are best buddies again. And one final note about fallen pasterns. It seems probable that pastern strength is affected by a combination of things; genetics, weight, nutrition, overall health, but an impor-
tant component is obviously hormones. I kind of think sometimes we are on the edge of some deficiency, copper, boron, whatever, and the presence or lack of hormones tips the balance. Genetics could be playing two roles, structural weakness where nothing makes a difference, but also the ability to assimilate or thrive on diminished levels of some key nutrient or combo of nutrients. This could explain different outcomes in different parts of the country. While we don't all agree on the importance of natural hormones, I think most of us agree grossly overweight llamas are almost certain to drop. Plenty of exercise is important, but carrying loads too heavy for the body structure will also cause a breakdown. A loaded llama should show no basic difference in their stride than when they aren't carrying a load. Forget the old "percent of body weight" theory. Al and Sondra Ellis can be contacted at: Highline Trail Llamas, 8747 Hwy. 191 Box 8 Boulder, WY 82923 307-537-3310 hilntrllamas@wyoming.com wwwLlamaAdventure.com or www.HighlineTrailLlamaSales.com Reprinted from The Journal, newsletter of the Rocky Mtn. Llama and Alpaca Association, Fall 2013
Llama Mamas at Kid n Ewe 2013 by Sharon Bramblett, photos by Claud Bramblett
Llama Mamas Spinning team, from left: Sharon Bramblett, Eileen Thompson, Mickey Stam, Annabell Duncan, Penny Skelley. Sharon and Penny are members of SCLA The Llama Mamas team participated in the Fiber to Fashion event held at Kid n Ewe and Lamas Too 25th fiber festival in Boerne, TX November 9, 2013. Our five spinners included Annabell Duncan, Eileen Thompson, Penny Skelley, Mickey Stam, and myself. Annabell, also our weaver, chose an intricate reverse twill design for the 72” shawl and earlier had warped the loom with my handspun warp from our dark grey llama, Inti. We began spinning roving from our light grey appaloosa mini llama, McArthur. As soon as we had enough singles spun on two spinning wheel bobbins, Eileen plied them and wound the 2-ply yarn onto a special boat shuttle bobbin. Annabell began weaving using the boat shuttle. We spun from 9am – 3pm, but Annabell continued weaving until 3:30, having woven 71” by then. She took the rest of the warp we’d spun home with her to finish the shawl.
Sharon Bramblett’s llamas provided the fiber for the 2013 shawl.
Annabell Duncan weaving the twill-pattern shawl at K&E 2013.
I am the current organizer of the Fiber to Fashion event and sent invitations via the Texas Fiber Guild Yahoo group, encouraging more teams to participate. Our “regulars,” Last Friday Spinners (Dallas), Yarnorama Ya Yas (Paige), Alpaca My Wheel (Fredericksburg), were joined by three new teams, Spindlin’ Ya Yas (Paige) San Angelo Spinners, and a family group, Sadler Family Fiber Fun (Arlington). 26
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
SCLA Fundraiser!
This year instead of a raffle, we are offering some hand-spun, hand-knitted items for sale to SCLA members. If you've been trying to win a scarf in one of our raffles over the years, here's your chance to be sure you are the winner! 100% of the proceeds will go to benefit SCLA. The yarn is 100% llama, donated to SCLA over 3 years' shearings from the late Helen Feick, and is from one of the Feick's studs, Tahonta. It is true black and very soft. Karen Conyngham prepared the fleeces (de-hairing were needed and carding), Sharon Bramblett did the hand spinning, plying and setting the twist, then Karen knitted scarves and neckwarmers. This yarn is lace weight and is just right for our mild Texas winters. Price includes postage. First-come, first-served. Contact Karen by email: 72040.3361@compuserve.com or phone: 512-328-8715 for more details. Open Lace Scarf
6 1/2" wide, 53" long. Light weight.
$100
Scalloped Lace Scarf
This is a close-up of the pattern; scarf has fringe on each end. 6" wide, 55" long; this is the heaviest scarf. $110 Flared Neckwarmer (there are 2 of these)
Base is 6 1/2" wide, band is 3 1/2" wide, length is 24". Pass the flared end thru the loop at the end of the band. $75
28
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Reprinted from The Llama Journal, Newsletter of the Southern States Llama, Assoc., Fall 2013
29
Llama & Alpaca Show MARCH 20-23,
2 014
Entry Deadline: Feb. 5 LATE Entry Deadline: Feb. 15
Questions?
Contact Show Superintendent · Danette Mars · hdmccleary@sbcglobal.net
OR livestock@rodeohouston.com · 832 . 667.1125 Entry forms will be available on the Show’s website by Nov. 1. All entries must be submitted on the paper forms.
30
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
“for all your llama needs...... call Carolyn�
cmyers@lyntegar.com www.Llamathings.com
806.676.6659 Lakeview, TX 79239
Complete Herd Dispersal 31
32
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
33
" Hello to all of our llama friends from Henry Hills
Henry Hills Llamas Margaret & Jay Henry 1874 FM 1510 Brookston, Texas 75421-9719 903-784-8257 WWW.HenryHillsLlamas.com henryhillsllamas@gmail.com 34
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
FFF Lula and her daughter Chabella
What is the Calm-a-Lid? The Calm-a-Lid is a non-invasive head covering for alpacas and other camelids for use in handling and procedures. The Calm-a-Lid reduces stress by blocking and protecting the animal's vision, making it easier to work with. The Calm-a-Lid offers eye protection for the animal. Alpacas do not close their eyes during shearing and their eyes can come in contact with dust and fiber. These have the potential to cause damage and even blindness. The Calm-a-Lid was developed during ground-breaking studies of camelid reproduction. With stress being a huge influence on reproduction, it was key to find a way to minimize stress as much as possible. Stress can cause abortion, varying body weight, and health issues. Thus the Calm-a-Lid was born. However, the Calm-a-Lid doesn't just work for research and ultrasounding - it was designed to be used during nearly every procedure necessary for your animals. Check-ups, nail trimming, teeth trimming, injections, and even shearing are only some of the wonderful times to employ the Calm-a-Lid. It is non-invasive, unintrusive and it protects your animal's eyes during these procedures. For photos and more detail, see: http://www.calm-a-lid.com/info.html
35
Scott Noga
Rattlesnake Ridge Ranch
October 10, 2013
Bluetongue Disease in Camelids What is Bluetongue Disease? Bluetongue disease (BT) is a non-contagious, infectious viral hemorrhagic disease affecting primarily domestic and wild ruminants and camelids. Canines are also susceptible. It is considered non-zoonotic but there has been one documented case of human infection in a laboratory worker. It is caused by the Bluetongue virus (BTV), of which there are officially 26 identified serotypes, fifteen of which have been found in the USA, predominantly in the south (BTV-1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17, 19, 22, 24) and four of those appear in the western states (BTV-10, 11, 13,17). Ten (BTV-1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 12, 14, 19, 22, 24) of the fifteen found in the USA appeared after 1997 as the serotypes have expanded their distribution. The virulence of BTV varies quite markedly; even strains with matching serotypes have variable virulence. The disease is considered noncontagious in that it cannot be transmitted between animals through casual contact, saliva, etc., but instead requires inoculation. Vectors include blood sucking insects capable of transporting the virus, oral ingestion of infected animal products (such as predator/prey transfer or food products containing infected animal sources), or semen transfer from virulent animals. The primary reservoir of virus in the USA is cattle. The overall seroprevalence of BTV in cattle in the United States is >18%. Aside from the common vectors, accidental infection has been reported in dogs in the USA following administration of modified live canine distemper vaccine that was unknowingly contaminated with BTV during manufacture. Where is Bluetongue Disease Found? Bluetongue disease appears to have originated in Africa, first identified in South Africa over a hundred years ago concurrent with the introduction of Merino sheep that soon succumbed to the disease, but its existence likely dates to antiquity. It has since spread to Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. It is currently thought that Antarctica is the only continent still free from BTV. In the USA first identified in the southeast in 1923, it was later confirmed present in California in 1952. Since 1998 it has been occurring with increasing frequency in more northerly latitudes in the U.S., particularly in Washington, Montana (ex. 30-50% population loss of antelope and deer in 2008, confirmed BTV-17), Minnesota and Michigan, and in southern British Columbia. In warmer southerly states the disease is a continual threat, but is seasonal in northern climates, typically appearing later in the warm season the further north one gets; late summer and early fall in the most northerly states. It subsides during the winter, as adult midges cannot survive in the cold. The survival of the disease past the winter season is due either to midges that survive the winter in a dormant state or seasonal expansion from warmer climates. It first appeared in Washington State in 1959 with unknown serotype. Another outbreak occurred in 1969, serotype unknown. BTV-17 was identified in Washington State in 1974. An outbreak of BTV-11 appeared in 1976 and 1977. Another widespread die-off occurred in 1980 due to BTV-10. The current 2013 epidemic is identified as BTV-11. Each of these cases involved Washington, Oregon and Idaho, starting in July and ending in November with the arrival of vector-killing freezing temperatures. BTV-10 was first isolated in Montana in a 1967 outbreak. It’s notable that the most severe BT seasons in the Pacific Northwest appear to occur about every 3-4 years, rotating through a different serotype each time. Contributing to this cycle may be the practice of beef cattle being slaughtered at age 3-4 and replaced with immunologically naïve calves. How does Bluetongue Virus Spread? BTV is in nearly all cases transmitted by biting midges of the genus Culicoides. These flies are small, sometimes referred to as gnats or no-see-ums, only 2-3mm in size prior to DRAFT
36
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
engorgement. In camelids they typically get into the ears where they reside for hours feeding on blood safe from harm. Other hairless or nearly hairless areas are also vulnerable but exposed areas are not quite as attractive to the flies. While there are over 1400 species of Culicoides around the world, only 30 or so have been implicated in the transmission of the virus. Culicoides sonorensis is the carrier species found throughout most of the USA and almost exclusively in the western states. BTV-2 relies exclusively upon Culicoides insignis to spread, which is found only in the southeast. Culicoides variipennis is found in the eastern USA and is a vector for various serotypes. The virus actually replicates inside certain species of the Culicoides midge, but there is no evidence that it replicates in other species or in mosquitoes, though can be mechanically transmitted by mosquitoes or other species. Animal to animal transmission is not capable of maintaining an endemic state and the virus is dependent upon suitable Culicoides vectors to persist in the environment. Culicoides ranges appear to be increasing in recent years, possibly due to warming climates, milder winters, and increased winds. Increased movement of infected animals or animal products may also contribute to wider distribution of various serotypes. The midge life cycle involves an egg, four larval stages, a pupal stage, and an adult. Eggs are laid in a mass on moist surfaces and hatch in 2 to 7 days. The larval stage lives in moist habitats such as mud or shallow water; development into a pupa is complete in about 2 weeks. The pupal stage is formed in the same site as the last larval stage, and adults emerge in about 2 to 3 days. Adult midges usually live 10 to 20 days in warm weather. Culicoides are not good flyers, ranging generally up to a mile and a half, though typically under a half mile, in search of a blood meal, unless winds happen to carry them farther. Females feed five times prior to laying eggs, potentially feeding on five different animals and spreading disease in the process. Once infected with bluetongue, a midge can transmit the virus the rest of its life. The flies are active day and night but often remain in the ears overnight. A single fly can easily spread virus from one viremic animal to four others. When these flies appear in an area they often do so in large numbers, spreading virus rapidly. Llamas typically flick their ears at the faint sound of these flies, and once in the ears can be very irritating and the llamas may be seen rubbing their ears on objects or the ground occasionally in a vain attempt at relief. A swipe of a finger or thumb in their ear may come out bloody, and you may see the flies trying to escape. Culicoides transmit other arboviral diseases to animals, such as African horse sickness virus (AHSV), equine encephalosis virus (EEV), and epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV). Each has been found in the USA though originated outside the USA. AHSV and EHDV can infect and afflict camelids. AHSV is mostly confined to Africa, Middle East and southern Europe and Asia and is as-yet uncommon in the USA. EHDV occurrence and distribution in the USA is similar to BTV and most visibly afflicts white tailed deer, but can strike all ruminants. There is a confirmed 2013 epidemic of EHDV in both eastern and western Montana – both sides of the continental divide. Hundreds of dead deer have been found, as happens periodically. It appears annually 2
37
in Washington and Idaho, identified in cattle starting in the 1990’s. EHDV is quite common in the Midwest, and even several Yak herds in Colorado have been hit by this disease. EEV, as the name suggests, afflicts all equine species. Symptoms of these diseases are similar to BTV, though mortality from EHDV in sheep is less than that for BTV. Species of Culicoides at northern latitudes mostly survive the winter as larvae, so it might appear that the most likely mechanism for overwintering is the vertical transmission of virus from infected vectors to offspring via the developing egg (“transovarial” transmission). However, experiments designed to look for vertical transmission of BTV in Culicoides have consistently reported negative results. Although adult Culicoides are far less tolerant of sub-zero temperatures than Culex mosquitoes and are normally thought to survive no longer than 10–20 days, laboratory studies suggest that this lifespan may be extended by mild winter conditions, with individuals surviving for up to three months at 10 °C in the laboratory. In mild winters it is possible that a small fraction of the infected adult Culicoides population might survive long enough to bridge the gap between transmission seasons. Adult Culicoides may also be sheltered from the worst conditions of winter to some degree by their choice of resting place. Infectious BTV can be isolated from the blood of cattle for much longer than from sheep and goats, and although the vast majority of infections in cattle endure for less than 60 days, a fraction may last for much longer. Such infections could permit the virus to persist for three to four months without infecting new hosts, and thereby survive short periods of vector absence. White-tailed deer and elk typically show a detectable viraemia for only 16 days or less. However, one study has suggested that viraemia in elk may resume up to three months post-infection in response to stress. What are the Effects of Bluetongue Disease? BTV can devastate livestock populations. For example, a case of 179,000 sheep dying in one region over a four month period has been documented. Sheep are the most severely affected, particularly certain breeds, as are white-tailed deer and antelope. In these species the mortality rate is as high as 90%, and the most afflicted animals (regardless of species) can die within hours of showing visible symptoms. Recovery for those that survive is often a months-long process. Organ and muscle damage can be severe. In all afflicted animal species, after a prepatent period of typically 3-8 days virus-mediated damage to endothelial cells ensues resulting in vascular thrombosis, tissue infarction, necrosis and hemorrhage. In five to twenty days symptoms include fever, serous to bloody nasal discharge, congestion, difficulty breathing, excessive salivation, severe pulmonary, intramuscular and subdermal edema, hydrothorax, hydropericardium, myocardial and intestinal hemorrhage, oral erosions and ulcers. The ulcers are typically painful and contribute to anorexia. Diarrhea is commonly seen. Animals become listless and anorexic. Late in the progression, typically 7-12 days following initial symptoms, lameness with hyperemia of the coronary band (in hooved animals) and torticollis may occur. Occasionally the hooves will eventually die and slough. Abortion and congenital malformations are typical of infection during pregnancy, canines included. (Pregnant dogs typically die 3-7 days following a stillbirth abortion due to BTV.) Bluetongue disease is so named because infected animals sometimes develop cyanosis, or blue coloration, of the tongue. Secondary bacterial pneumonia and other opportunistic complications can also develop, sometimes contributing to death in animals that don’t immediately succumb to BTV. Direct cause of death in peracute cases is usually due to frothing from the lungs, sometimes visible in the nostrils, and the accompanying asphyxiation, often before other visible symptoms appear short of listlessness and difficulty breathing. In such cases death can occur in less than six hours of the first appearance of visible unusual behavior such as increased recumbency. Due to the rapidity of 3
38
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
such deaths the telltale signs may be missed and the animal(s) mysteriously discovered deceased with no outward causal indications. Such individuals are often disposed of with indeterminate cause of death, leaving owners unaware and vulnerable to expanded suffering and death among their herd. Some infected animals exhibit no readily apparent symptoms, apart from various degree of lethargy. Cattle are usually asymptomatic aside from reproductive effects (abortions, congenital defects) and reduced milk production in dairy cattle but can be virulent for weeks (up to 11, but 90% are clear in 7). Elk are also often asymptomatic. In other ruminant species and in camelids, symptom frequency, manifestation and severity varies somewhat relative to others, but in all susceptible species the disease can progress very quickly, striking some individuals, even young, vibrant, healthy ones, with debilitating or fatal consequences. Severity is also dependent on the virility of the particular strain of BTV. Multiple small scale studies have been performed indicating surviving camelids typically clear the virus more quickly, in less than 3 weeks. It has not yet been disproven that the virus may lay dormant in organ tissues and re-emerge during a period of extreme stress, but if not detectable in the bloodstream then it is not transmissible by the midges. Studies have also reported that the amount of detected virus in the bloodstream of virulent camelids is significantly less than in cattle. Infected animals don’t become viremic until at least four days following infection. A serologic response in ruminants can be detected 7–14 days after infection. In peracute cases death can occur prior to a detectable serologic response. Blood viremia infectious to Culicoides is normally cleared within 21 days. Once the virology is cleared they possess long term, possibly lifelong though no studies have proven this, immunity for the homologous serotype following field infection. Because of this immunity, an animal exposed to BTV and already exhibiting a positive antibody titer in laboratory testing normally presents no risk of harboring or transporting the virus, particularly following a very brief quarantine period. How is Bluetongue Disease Controlled? There is no treatment for Bluetongue disease, but it can be controlled through quarantine, vaccination (where available), and control of the midge vector. Complicating and secondary infections should be treated appropriately during the recovery period. Vaccinations are only available for some strains of BTV. Midges can be controlled by preventing midge breeding sites, often cow and horse dung heaps and moist soil, from proliferating, and by keeping animals sheltered during dusk through dawn, when midges are most active. Vaccines The only vaccine approved for use in the USA by the USDA is for BTV-10. California has approved vaccines for BTV-10, 11, 17 in state only. The vaccines are inexpensive and effective, but these MLV vaccines cannot be given to pregnant dams as it can cause teratogenic defects such as cavitating encephalopathy and retinal dysplasia, often blind, stillborn and/or dying soon after birth. As modified live vaccines these effects are simply milder cases of field infection with the live virus during pregnancy, which typically causes birth defects and abortion. More advanced vaccines are in development but lack urgency since the cattle industry is not very concerned about BTV. Vector Control Larval Stage – Controlling Culicoides sp. at the larval stages typically involves the removal of the breeding areas and/or treating those areas with various insecticides. Culicoides sp. breed and develop in areas of standing water, particularly shallow, damp areas such as mud, irrigated pasture and marshlands. These areas, 4
39
depending on their structure, location and regulations surrounding them, may be drained or filled-in to potentially reduce the population of Culicoides sp. and subsequently, theoretically, reduce the bite risk to livestock. Some insecticides have been experimented with in the control of breeding grounds and larva stages of Culicoides, and although some have had minimal effects, the need for widespread application, hazards to human health and environmental health, as well as the risk to the animals in the pasture makes this an unlikely option. Some potential methods being looked at for control include the use of the bacteria, Bacillus thuringiensis, to treat insect breeding grounds and potentially reduce the number of insects. Thus far, research has shown that the levels of bacteria required to significantly reduce insects, including Culicoides sp., populations are too high to be practical in a field setting. Adult Stage – There are various models of propane powered CO2 traps as well as large fan traps. Both types get good ratings when they work but poor ratings for operational reliability and the former has high operating costs in addition to high purchase price. If expense is no object the combination CO2, UV, Fan traps are the most effective, but check them frequently. I opted for three advanced UV zappers with oscillating light that simulates movement and chemical attractant (octenol), replacing one old zapper. The chemical attractant is designed primarily for mosquitoes but manufacturers claim it attracts all blood feeding insects at close range, as it mimics breath and sweat scent. The attractant cartridges last for about a month and emit their scent when heated by the lamp. Cost is low and reliability is high with minimal maintenance. Units with 40W blacklights will cover up to a half acre unobstructed. Place them about 6 – 7 feet off the ground. Multiple UV/chemical traps can be purchased for less than a single CO 2 trap. Try to place them between potential sources of midges and the animals. The limitation of these traps is that they are really only effective from dusk to dawn, but the midges are active all the time. Animal Preventive Treatment Using topical fly repellant significantly decreases the biting risk from Culicoides sp. and in addition the ears and face, the axilla (armpit) and inguinal (inside of the hind legs) regions may need to be included to cover thinner, more exposed skin. The inside ears are the primary target of the midges so are the most important areas to treat. Synthetic pyrethroid products, e.g., Permethrin + Piperonyl Butoxide, are the only ones proven effective against Culicoides. Spray on pyrethroid products need to be reapplied about every three days, though some claim to be effective for a week or more. These products are safe to use, especially topically, as they are non-toxic to mammals. Each year we applied a long lasting product of this type (“repels flies up to 14 days”, per the label) while the flies were observed to be pestering the llamas, but were not diligent in applying it frequently enough, seeing the flies as just an irritant, not a risk of debilitation or death. The product does not appear to deter all flies for that long. It only takes one infected fly to spread the virus. An interviewed etymologist that began studying arbovirus transmission by midges beginning in 1959 (Texas) and developed a synthetic pyrethroid made the recommendation to apply at least every three days to be highly effective against culicoides, regardless of label claims. High dosage Ivermectin at 400ug/kg (1cc of 1% injectable solution per 50 pounds of body weight) results in a partial kill of biting midges (roughly 80% effective while Ivermectin levels are high in the animal), but 5
40
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
transmission of BTV can occur before the insect’s demise. Lower “normal” dosages of Ivermectin (200ug/kg) have been found to be completely ineffective at killing Culicoides. Consequently, this high dose method can only be used in combination with others and issues of parasite resistance need to be considered. This method is most appropriate in meningeal worm regions. Pour-on systemic pyrethroid fly repellent products may be effective at reducing BTV transmission and last longer than topical products, but as with Ivermectin the transmission may occur before the insect’s demise. Topical products exhibit greater repellency and a more rapid kill. Note that pour-on products need to be applied more gradually on camelids than the label instructions for cattle, due to the more rapid absorption in camelids. Recommended is to split the dose and apply each a day or two apart. We have tried a fly mask for llamas (custom made), but the llamas that wore it didn’t like to have it on despite the relief it provided from the midges and each managed to eventually rub it off. Avoid shearing llamas late so coats grow out prior to the appearance of infected midges. Conclusion No single defensive strategy can be relied upon to prevent infection from BTV. All reasonable measures need to be taken to control Culicoides breeding areas, trap adult flies with modern traps, and diligently apply topical synthetic pyrethroid fly repellents throughout BTV season each year. Even in areas that often see outbreaks of this disease, veterinarians may actually rarely see it and hence may not recognize it when seen. Many animals, cattle particularly, don’t show clear symptoms, usually just reproductive and productive, which vets are not called in for and can be easily dismissed. When other animals such as goats or camelids are found dead of mysterious causes it’s too late to call the vet so they don’t get contacted. Necropsies are rarely performed. The disease can spread silently. References See Attachment
6
41
This article is dedicated to: King Asher, Master Pack Llama and devoted hiking and travel companion. Cut down in his prime at age 9 from peracute BTV in a matter of hours.
Asher means “happy” or “blessed” in Hebrew. He loved adventure and was happiest when on a trip. It was I that was blessed with his companionship.
Santa Fe, a very gentle llama rescued this year from owner abandonment, suffering from infection with West Nile Virus, progressing into poliomyelitis resulting in paralysis of the right rear leg. Surviving that, he was subsequently hit with BTV infection and died at age 10.
7
42
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Wild Bill, rescued this year as an orphaned feral llama, born in the wild from parents released into open desert rangeland seven years before. The dam was killed by a pack of dogs. Initially fearful of close contact and able to leap 6’ fences effortlessly, was really a gentle sweetheart. With just a short period of training was halter and lead trained and tolerated (nervously) unrestrained foot pickup on command for nail trimming, and was about to begin pack training. A vibrant and spirited presence snuffed out at age 4 by BTV.
Dazy May, herd matriarch. This classic gal was tough as nails and extremely intelligent, diagnosed with kidney failure at WSU in 2004 at age 14 and a followup in 2006 with never before seen creatinine levels in a live llama (>30) yet acted completely normal aside from loss of appetite at the time. Kidney biopsies found 100% scar tissue. She was predicted to die within a couple weeks of discharge each time but somehow managed to maintain herself. February 2013 she went off feed and returned to WSU only to find that kidney function appeared normal per blood test but liver infection was evident. She recovered with antibiotics. Late July she suddenly developed diarrhea with no parasites or coccidia, a symptom of BTV; still possessing the pasterns of a youth, died two days later at age 23, unconfirmed BTV. Five other llamas in our herd were confirmed infected but survived.
And to all the many other innocent lives lost in the 2013 BTV epidemic in the PNW. 8
43
Attachment References Akita GY, Ianconescu M, Maclachlan NJ, Osburn BI: Bluetongue disease in dogs associated with contaminated vaccine. Vet Rec 1994, 134:283-284. Alexander KA, MacLachlan NJ, Kat PW, House C, O'Brien SJ, et al. (1994) Evidence of natural bluetongue infection among African carnivores. Am J Trop Med Hyg 51: 568–576. Anderson JR, Linhares AX. Comparison of several different trapping methods for Culicoides variipennis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae). J Am Mosq Control Assoc 1989;5:325-334. Ballweber LR. Ecto - and Endoparasites of New World Camelids Vet Clin North Am 2009;25:295 - 310. Barratt-Boyes SM, MacLachlan NJ: 1995, Pathogenesis of bluetongue virus infection of cattle. J Am Vet Med Assoc 206:1322– 1329. Barratt-Boyes SM, Maclachlan NJ: Dynamics of viral spread in bluetongue virus infected calves. Vet Microbiol 1994, 40:361-371. Borkent A., Grogan W.L., Catalog of the New World biting midges north of Mexico (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Zootaxa (2009) 2273:1–48. Bruce R. Hoar, Tim E. Carpenter, Randall S. Singer, Ian A. Gardner, Probability of introduction of exotic strains of bluetongue virus into the US and into California through importation of infected cattle, Preventive Veterinary Medicine 66 (2004) 79–91. Dal Pozzo F, Sagerman C, Thiry E: Bovine infection with bluetongue virus with special emphasis on European serotype 8. Vet J 2009, 182:142-151. George J.E., The effects of global change on the threat of exotic arthropods and arthropod-borne pathogens to livestock in the United States, Anim. Biodiv. Emerg. Dis. (2008) 1149:249–254. Gerdes GH: A South African overview of the virus, vectors, surveillance and unique features of bluetongue. Vet Ital 2004, 40:39-42. Gibbs EP, Greiner EC: The epidemiology of bluetongue. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 1994, 17:207220. Gould E.A., Higgs S., Impact of climate change and other factors on emerging Arbovirus diseases, Trans. R. Soc. Trop. Med. Hyg. (2009) 103:109–121. Henrich M, Reinacher M, Hamann HP: 2007, Lethal bluetongue virus infection in an alpaca. Vet Rec 161:764. J. F. Evermann, A. J. McKeiman, L. A. Wilbur, R. L. Levings, E. S. Trueblood, T. J. Baldwin, F. G. Hughbanks, Canine fatalities associated with the use of a modified live vaccine administered during late stages of pregnancy, Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation July 1994 vol. 6 no. 3 353-357. 9
44
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Joaquín Ortega, Beate , Julie E. Dechant, Clifton P. Drew, N. James MacLachlan, Fatal Bluetongue Virus Infection in an Alpaca (Vicugna Pacos) in California, Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation January 2010 vol. 22 no. 1 134-136 John R. Anderson, Aricio X. Linhares, Comparison Of Several Different Trapping Methods For Culicoides Variipennis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), Trapping Culicoides Variipennis, September 1989. Kirkland P, Hawkes RA: A comparison of laboratory and ‘wild’ strains of bluetongue virus - is there any difference and does it matter? Vet Ital 2004, 40:448-455. Lysyk TJ, Danyk T (2007) Effect of temperature on life history parameters of adult Culicoides sonorensis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) in relation to geographic origin and vectorial capacity for bluetongue virus. J Med Entomol 44: 741–751. MacDonald N.E., West Nile virus in the context of climate change, Can. J. Infect. Dis. Med. Microbiol. (2008) 19:217–218. MacLachlan N.J., Osburn B.I., Epizootic hemorrhagic disease of deer, in: Coetzer J.A.W., Tustin R.C. (Eds.), Infectious diseases of livestock, 2nd ed., Oxford University Press Southern Africa, Cape Town, 2004, pp. 1227– 1230. Maclachlan NJ, Conley AJ, Kennedy PC: Bluetongue and equine viral arteritis viruses as models of virusinduced fetal injury and abortion. Anim Reprod Sci 2000, 60–61:643-651. Maclachlan NJ, Drew CP, Darpel KE, Worwa G: The pathology and pathogenesis of bluetongue. J Comp Pathol 2009, 141:1-16. Maclachlan NJ, Mayo CE, Potential strategies for control of bluetongue, a globally emerging, Culicoidestransmitted viral disease of ruminant livestock and wildlife, Antiviral Research, Volume 99, Issue 2, August 2013, Pages 79-90, ISSN 0166-3542. Meiswinkel R, Baldet T, De DR, Takken W, Delecolle JC, Mellor PS: The 2006 outbreak of bluetongue in northern Europe–the entomological perspective. Prev Vet Med 2008, 87:55-63. Mellor PS (1990) The replication of bluetongue virus in Culicoides vectors. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 162: 143–161. Mellor PS, Boorman J, Baylis M (2000) Culicoides biting midges: Their role as arbovirus vectors. Annu Rev Entomol 45: 307–340. Mertens P.P., Diprose J., Maan S., Singh K.P., Attoui H., Samuel A., Bluetongue virus replication, molecular and structural biology, Vet. Ital. (2004) 40:426–437. Meyer G, Lacroux C, Leger S, et al.: 2009, Lethal bluetongue virus serotype 1 infection in llamas. Emerg Infect Dis 15:608–610. Moulton JE: 1961, Pathology of bluetongue of sheep in California. J Am Vet Med Assoc 138:493–498. 10
45
Murray JO, Trainer DO (1970) Bluetongue virus in North American Elk. J Wildl Dis 6: 144–148. Nasci RS, Savage HM, White DJ, Miller JR, Cropp BC, et al. (2001) West Nile virus in overwintering Culex mosquitoes, New York City, 2000. Emerg Infect Dis 7: 742–744. Nevill EM (1971) Cattle and Culicoides biting midges as possible overwintering hosts of bluetongue virus. Onderstepoort J Vet Res 38: 65–72. Osburn BI: The impact of bluetongue virus on reproduction. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 1994, 17:189-196. Parish SM, Evermann JF, Olcott B, et al. A bluetongue epizootic in northwestern United States. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1982;181:589-591. Parsonson, Ian M.: 1993. Bluetongue Virus Infection of Cattle. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the USAHA. Petersen L.R., Hayes E.B., West Nile virus in the Americas, Med. Clin. North Am. (2008) 92:1307–1322. R. M. Robinson, T. L. Hailey, C. W. Livingston and J. W. Thomas, The Journal of Wildlife Management, Vol. 31, No. 1 (Jan., 1967), pp. 165-168. Randall S. Singer, N. James MacLachlan, Tim E. Carpenter, Maximal predicted duration of viremia in bluetongue virus–infected cattle, Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation January 2001 vol. 13 no. 1 4349. Reeves WK, Nol P, Miller MM, et al. Effects of ivermectin on the susceptibility of Culicoides sonorensis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) to bluetongue and epizootic hemorrhagic disease viruses. J Vector Ecol 2009;34:161-163. Rivera H, Madewell BR, Ameghino E: 1987, Serologic survey of viral antibodies in the Peruvian alpaca (Lama pacos). Am J Vet Res 48:189–191. Sampson MN, Gooday GW. Involvement of chitinases of Bacillus thuringiensis during pathogenesis in insects. Microbiology 1998;144:2189-2194. Savini G, Maclachlan NJ, Sanchez-Vizcaino JM, Zientara S: Vaccines against bluetongue in Europe. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2008, 31:101-120.MacLachlan, Pierce and deMattos: 1997. Evolution of Bluetongue Virus in the Western United States. Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the USAHA. Singer RS, MacLachlan NJ, Carpenter TE (2001) Maximal predicted duration of viraemia in bluetongue virusinfected cattle. J Vet Diagn Invest 13: 43–49. Sohn R, Yuill T (1991) Bluetongue and epizootic haemorrhagic disease in wild ruminants. Bull Soc Vector Ecol 16: 17–24. Tabachnick W.J., Culicoides and the global epidemiology of bluetongue virus infection, Vet. Ital. (2004) 40:145–150. 11
46
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Tabachnick WJ: Culicoides variipennis and bluetongue-virus epidemiology in the United States. Annu Rev Entomol 1996, 41:23-43. Takamatsu H, Mellor PS, Mertens PPC, Kirkham PA, Burroughs JN, et al. (2003) A possible overwintering mechanism for bluetongue virus in the absence of the insect vector. J Gen Virol 84: 227–235. Venter GJ, Hermanides KG, Boikanyo SN, et al. The effect of light trap height on the numbers of Culicoides midges collected under field conditions in South Africa. Vet Parasitol 2009;166:343-345. Vercauteren G, Miry C, Vandenbussche F, Ducatelle R, Van der Heyden S, Vandemeulebroucke E, et al.: Bluetongue virus serotype 8-associated congenital hydranencephaly in calves. Transbound Emerg Dis 2008, 55:293-298. Vosdingh RA, Trainer DO, Easterday BC: Experimental bluetongue disease in white-tailed deer. Can J Comp Med Vet Sci 1968, 32:382-387. White DM, Wilson WC, Blair CD, Beaty BJ (2005) Studies on overwintering of bluetongue viruses in insects. J Gen Virol 86: 453–462. Wilson A, Darpel K, Mellor PS (2008) Where Does Bluetongue Virus Sleep in the Winter? PLoS Biol 6(8): e210. Zell R., Krumbholz A., Wutzler P., Impact of global warming on viral diseases: what is the evidence?, Curr. Opin. Biotechnol. (2008) 19:652–660.
“Never interfere with the breeding process”
12
Robert & Carolyn Roe 47
Ask the CSU Vet Team
By Kathy Stanko & The Colorado State University Camelid Vets & Interns
Wow, Autumn already? Hope everyone had a wonderful summer. We had a great deal of rain (for the desert) in July which brought out the mosquitoes and another round of West Nile Virus. So, to refresh myself on what this disease can mean to our llamas, I contacted Dr. Callan at CSUVTH. I now share this information with you, as a reminder, and perhaps for future planning. Following this discussion, Dr. Sarah Raabis explains uterine prolapse. Question: Summer rains mean more mosquitoes which mean West Nile Virus. Does spraying the llamas with fly or mosquito repellent help protect them? What are the symptoms of West Nile Virus in camelids? And what is the treatment? Response from Dr. Robert Callan:
While mosquito repellant applied to the llamas will in theory help decrease mosquito bites, in practicality, it is probably not going to be effective. The areas that will need to be covered are the areas with short or thin fleece such as the nose and face, axilla, belly and groin area. The duration of effectiveness is limited so application would need to occur several times during the day or at least before dusk and dawn.
Most llamas and alpacas that are infected with West Nile Virus do not show clinically observed signs. They may have a transient fever but since they don’t often show other signs, the fever is rarely noted. Rarely, some animals may develop neurological signs just like humans and horses. So far, clinical neurological disease in camelids has been reported in alpacas but I am not aware of any confirmed clinical cases in llamas. So, there does seem to be a species difference in susceptibility. The neurological signs can range from a mild head and neck tremor, to more pronounced tremors including the trunk. Some animals become uncoordinated and stumble. Severity may progress to where the animal is uncoordinated and weak and may not be able to stand at all. Finally, this may progress to seizures and death. Treatment is supportive, trying to buy time until the animal’s immune system can fight off the infection. Steroids or non¬steroidal anti-inflammatories are often administered. In our experience, if the animal continues to stand and eat, then the prognosis remains favorable. IV fluids with dextrose support may be needed. Once they become recumbent and stop eating, they typically progress and die. The best prevention is vaccination. There are limited studies on use of the current equine vaccines in llamas and alpacas. Both the Fort Dodge vaccine (In48
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
novator, 3 initial doses followed by a yearly late spring booster recommended) and the Merial vaccine (Recombitek, 2 initial doses followed by a yearly late spring booster recommended) have had some safety trials and appear to be safe in llamas and alpacas including pregnant llamas and alpacas. Either vaccine can take 3 weeks after the final dose to become fully effective. And about 10 days are required before the yearly booster is fully effective. Therefore, the best time to vaccinate is in April or May depending on your location and the normal arrival of mosquitoes. And, as with all vaccines, owners should be cautious when vaccinating animals on hot days or when they are stressed. We recommend either vaccinating early in the morning or late evening. I am not aware of any llama or alpaca safety studies for any of the other equine WNV vaccines. I currently recommend vaccination of animals over 4 months of age for their first year, followed by a booster in the late spring their second year in endemic areas. After that, you can continue annual vaccination of all adults in the spring. However, there is some evidence that annual natural exposure of previously vaccinated alpacas and llamas provides a booster response with minimal risk of disease. Thus, some producers are not repeating vaccination in adults after the second year of age except in their most valuable animals if they want to conserve costs. Question: What are the minimum equipment/supplies for an owner to have on hand for the emergency of a post-partum uterine prolapse prior to their veterinarian arriving? Response from Dr. Sarah Raabis: (Editors’ note: this piece was written by Dr. Sarah Raabis while an intern at CSU. Dr. Raabis is now continuing her training in a Large Animal Internal Medicine residency at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.) Uterine prolapse most commonly occurs as a complication of dystocia, retained placenta, or manipulation during parturition. Animals at risk are older, multiparous females that have relaxed vaginal and pelvic ligaments, which allows for the uterus to telescope through the cervix and out of the vaginal canal. In severe cases, the entire uterus can be exterior to the vulva (the uterus is essentially inside out). The placenta may still be attached. A uterine prolapse is different from a vaginal prolapse, which often happens mid to late gestation. In a vaginal prolapse, the walls of the vagina protrude through the vulva, however, the cervix and uterine endometrium cannot be visualized. Often, a vaginal prolapse will only be seen when the animal is laying down. Uterine prolapse is a potentially life-threatening emergency and a veterinarian should be called immediately. The most important complications of uterine prolapse include endotoxemia and septic shock from contamination and hemorrhage from blood vessel rupture. The supplies that an owner should have to help care for an animal with an uterine prolapse include: A halter for restraint. A bucket of warm water with either a povidone iodine or chlorhexidine disinfectant. A cup or scoop that can be used to help rinse the uterus while cleaning it. A clean plastic tarp or plastic garbage bag to help protect the uterus from contamination. 49
Some granular sugar that may be used to help draw out the edema in the uterine tissues. Owners should move an animal with a uterine prolapse to a clean, dry space. Ideally, the animal should cush on a slight decline, so that the animal’s pelvis is elevated relative to the head. This positioning will facilitate replacement. Place a clean tarp or trash bag under the protruding tissue and cover it, so that it is not contaminated by the ground. If the animal will not cush, use a clean tarp or plastic trash bag to hold the uterus until the veterinarian arrives. This will decrease tension placed on uterine vessels. If the animal tolerates it, owners can use tepid water to gently rinse the protruding tissue to remove debris. Before administering any medications, the owners should first consult with their veterinarian. A common recommendation is to administer antibiotics with good Gram-negative spectrum (such as Ceftiofur) as a preventative for septicemia. In addition, it is also commonly recommended that owners administer flunixin meglumine to decrease uterine inflammation and as a preventative for endotoxemia. When the veterinarian arrives, they will attempt to replace the uterus. This should only be performed by the veterinarian, as there are many risks of infection, blood vessel rupture, and tearing the uterus. The most important things for owners to remember are to keep the uterus clean of debris and protected from contamination and to reduce tension on uterine blood vessels by having the animal cush onto a clean surface or by holding the uterus until the veterinarian arrives. Thank you, Dr. Callan and Dr. Raabis, for this wonderful information. Reprinted from The Journal, newsletter of the Rocky Mtn. Llama and Alpaca Association, Fall 2013.
50
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Marcie Saska Agnew Bob Burton 817-999-1875 P.O. Box 211 Sunset, Texas 76270 5415 CO Rd 59 Florissant, Colorado 80816
Chuk & Vicki Guzman Southern G Llamas 740 Bear Creek Rd
Triple V Ranch Rick & Sharon VanHooser 600 Red Top Road Poolville, Texas 76487
LaGrange, Texas 78945
817-596-9644
979.242.3858
E-mail: Sharonav@peoplepc.com t Quarter Horses t Llamas t Miniature Donkeys t t Miniature Horses t Dwarf/Pigmy Goats
Figment Ranch Llamas
Since 1988 Specializing in performance animals. We breed pets, show, guard and just-for-fun llamas. Members of SCLA-ALSA-ILR
17102 Mueschke Rd Cypress, Tx 77433 281-351-1820 Home
www.FigmentRanch.com figranch@flash.net Ruby Herron Robin Turell Sean Price
713-249-8523 713-249-3893 281-830-2368
Diamond D Llamas Rick & Darlene Matthiesen 259 PR 3512 Hondo, TX 78861 Home: 830.741.7023 email: diamonddllamas@gmail.com www.diamonddllamas.com
51
Lone Star ranch Exotic Imported Show Llamas, Texas Longhorns & Scottish Highland Cattle
Gorgeous Argentine
LlAmAs With rAre genetics
P.O. Box 1184,Durant , OK 74702 3477 Co. Rd. 338, Melissa, TX 75454 lonestarranchoktx@gmail.com
Ranch 580.745.9202 Ranch 469.742.0110 Fax 580.745.9292
RANCHES Texas & Colorado
Suri, Silky, & Argentine Llamas 512-751-5363 www.sapavecoranch.com
3966 Estate Drive Vacaville, CA 95688 707-447-5046 707-471-4020 f llamainfo@gmail.com www.llamainfo.org
BLUEBONNET HILL LLAMAS Bob & Joan Lyons San Antonio, Texas 210.497.3151 52
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Report on the US Animal Health Association 2013 Annual Meeting Compiled by Karen Conyngham, ILR representative to the USAHA Board of Directors and Susan Tellez, Camelid Alliance.
completed on Nov. 11, 2013, a camel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia has shown initial positive test results for MERS. The camel belongs to a MERS patient who is undergoing treatment. More testing will be done as this investigation continues.] camelid owners were mentioned.
The 117th annual meeting of the US Animal Health Association was held in San Diego, CA October 19-23, 2013. Camelid owners who attended this year included Susan Tellez representing the Camelid Alliance, Karen Conyngham, representing the Intl. Lama Registry on the USAHA Board of Directors and Dr. Pat Long, representing the Alpaca Owners & Breeders Assoc. on the USAHA Board of Directors. 1, 050 people attended this years meeting.
Committee on Infectious Diseases of Cattle, Bison and Camelids
USAHA is an international forum where producers join state and federal regulators and researchers/scientists from a wide variety of specialties to discuss issues affecting the health and welfare of livestock species and wildlife. The annual meeting gives the camelid representatives a chance to talk with state veterinarians, US Dept. of Agriculture, Animal Plant & Health Inspection Service (USDA/APHIS) personnel and researchers about issues of concern to the camelid community.
Karen provided the committee chair with a short update on the emergence of MERS, the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, currently affecting mainly Saudi Arabia and several other countries in the Middle East. It is a coronavirus and appears to have originated in bats. Much more testing and analysis is needed, but based on serology done at several veterinary laboratories to date, camels have shown an antibody response to MERS and might be an intermediate host for the virus. As of the time of the meeting, NO camels had exhibited clinical signs of the disease. Sera from European sheep, goats, cattle, llamas and alpacas (some Chilean camelid samples were included) likewise had no MERS antibodies or clinical signs of disease.
This year the plenary session focused on vaccines, with a review of the 1913 Virus Serum Toxin Act, vaccine development and new technologies. The following report covers committees in which camelids or diseases of interest to
There were no presentations specific to camelids this year. The subcommittee on Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) announced a Joint BVDV Symposium and European Society for Veterinary Virology Pestivirus Meeting to be held right before the start of the next USAHA annual meeting, dates are Oct. 15-16, 2014 in Kansas City, MO.
[Note: At the time this report was being
Committee on Foreign and Emerging Diseases This committee included a short presentation on Schmallenberg virus (SBV) in Europe. Although many EU countries now report cattle and sheep affected by SBV - it causes severe birth defects or stillborn young - a relatively small number of farms have been affected, as compared to the overall livestock population. Vaccines are becoming available but their effectiveness has yet to be demonstrated. A few alpacas in Scotland have been found to have antibodies against SBV, but none have shown any clinical signs of the disease. The Culicoides midge spreads the virus and that vector is also found here in the U.S. Committee on Animal Welfare John Madigan, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVIM, ACAW, professor in the Department of Medicine and Epidemiology at the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine, gave a PowerPoint presentation entitled "Why Foals Don't Gallop in Utero: Studies in Transitions of Fetal Consciousness with Implications for Neonatal Health". This was a fascinating talk and could have implications for camelid neonatal health as well. He described what is often called "dummy foal syndrome" where the foal is disori53
ented, ignores the mare and does not nurse, often circling the stall - much the same symptoms as we call "wall babies" in affected crias. This condition was most often attributed to a lack of oxygen to the foal but Dr. Madigan and his team were also looking at other factors. He found that foals have high concentrations of a type of neurosteroid called pregnanes that keep the foal quiet (basically unconscious) during the birth process; the pregnanes diminish after birth. His team discovered that these pregnanes can cross the blood-brain barrier and may keep the affected foals "depressed" after birth, especially if the birthing process was rapid or a c-section was used. The foal needs a clear signal to "wake up" and be fully conscious after birth and that signal may be blocked by elevated neurosteroid levels. Here is a good description, from an article in The Horse, July 28, 2013 (http://www.thehorse.com/articles/32273/ fetal-consciousness-impact-on-equineneonatal-health): Additionally, [Dr. Madigan] said, his team is evaluating the possible use of a technique he and his colleagues developed called squeeze-induced somnolence, which is believed to mimic passage through the birth canal. Madigan said this method might signal to the foal that he is outside the uterus and that it's time for pregnane production to decrease, allowing him to stand, nurse, and run. Squeeze-induced somnolence involves applying pressure to the thoracic (chest) area in healthy foals to induce recumbency, non-rapid eye 54
movement sleep, muscle relaxation, and increased β-endorphin levels. It does not appear to have any adverse effects. During their studies the team noted a unique hormone surge after 20 minutes of squeezing, which is about the normal amount of time a foal is squeezed in the birth canal during a normal delivery, Madigan said. The internal signal for the foal to "wake up" involves the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis, which they believe down-regulates the pregnane secretion so the foal can transition to birth consciousness. The stage 2 birth process in llamas and alpacas also takes 20 minutes, so this process MIGHT be used in affected crias as well. In his presentation, Dr. Madigan used short videos to illustrate the squeeze technique on 2 different "dummy" foals. He used a rope (it does not need to be a heavy rope) to provide the squeeze to the thorax, right behind the front legs. He passed the rope around the foal a total of 3 times, using a half-hitch knot along the spine to hold each rope loop in place, pulling the rope snug (moderate pressure). Loops appeared to be 3-4 inches apart. Upon feeling the constriction, the foal lay down on its side and went to sleep. Dr. Madigan was sitting behind the foal, on his heels with his back to the stall wall, exerting a steady pressure on the rope for 20 minutes while a team member kept close track of the time and monitored respiration and heart-rate. Exactly at the end of 20 minutes, the rope loops are untied and the rope removed. The foal
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
woke up quickly, got to its feet, shook itself and set off in search of mom who was in another part of the stall. In one short video shown by Dr. Madigan it took a quite severely affected foal about 5 minutes to become stable, find its mother and begin to nurse. At this point in the presentation, many people in the committee meeting began to applaud. Dr. Madigan said that using towels or blankets will NOT work as the pressure exerted needs to mimic passage through the birth canal and rope best provides that constriction. You can find 2 short video clips on YouTube and also on the website for Dr. Madigan's book: Videos: http://www.equineneonatalmanual. com/#!foalsqueezing/c1r2z Note his disclaimer that these videos are NOT training videos but are purely informational, and be sure to discuss this procedure with your veterinarian before trying it on a wall-baby cria. The squeeze technique is used in conjunction with good neonatal nursing care, infection control and adequate nutrition which is always important, but even more so in compromised crias. By the way, Dr. Madigan is also the inventor of the Madigan Sling, which was developed for use in horse rescue when the animal is caught in heavy mud, in a crevasse, etc. He said the sling that fits a yearling horse would be best for rescue use with llamas. Committee on Import-Export The report from the USDA/APHIS and the
NIES (National Import-Export Services) included the newest Harmonizations to Protocols and Import Regulations to be more inline with the OIE standards for movement of live animals and products. Surveillance in the EU (European Union) has been extended to include African Swine Fever (ASF), Schmallenberg (SBV) Virus, and Bluetongue (BTV) virus, all spread by flying midges originally from Africa and have now spread to the northern European countries. The vectors are present in the US, but no case of Schmallenberg virus has been documented in the US. Resolutions were approved for a recommendation to return to the 1993 Regulations for TB Testing and eliminate the 6-8 week culture test. Bluetongue is still seen used as an economic disease and trade barrier restricting live animal movement and import/export worldwide. Committee on Bluetongue and Related Orbiviruses Francisco Javier Reviriego Gordejo, from Spain and Head of Sector Disease Control & Identification and the
Director-General for the European Commission of Health and Consumers, reminded everyone that natural immunity from vector-borne diseases has not led to eradication. The recently reported "new" strain of Bluetongue (BTV) in Europe is actually a morphed form of the original BTV-1. Vaccination, surveillance and vector control must be maintained on the European continent and worldwide. Bill Wilson from the ABADRU (ArthropodBorne Animal Disease Research Unit in Manhattan, KS), which investigates and researches domestic and exotic mosquito-borne vector viral diseases, reported on Surveillance, Frequency and Vector Control for BTV, SBV, ASFV (African Swine Fever), VSV (Vesicular Swine Fever), and EHD (Epizootic Hemorrhagic Disease). The genotypes in the viruses adapt to their environment as documented by the variations in genome sequencing caused by the extreme heat in 2012. BTV-11 was found in dogs (1 in KS and 1 in TX) was 99% identical, evidence of multiple genetic reassortment of this virus. All livestock owners should maintain mosquito control efforts.
Committee on Sheep and Goats This committee included one presentation that made mention of the continued research into drug resistant parasites. NIES (Import/Export) is now accepting OIE standards and regulations for the BSE Rule changes (due to be published in the Federal Register very soon), which affect small ruminants in border crossings. A report on Schmallenberg virus (SBV) indicated vaccines used in Europe are available from Merck and Merial, in case this virus reaches the US. * * * * * * * * * * The next USAHA Annual Meeting will be held October 16-22, 2014 at the Sheraton Kansas City at Crown Center. Information on USAHA is always available at: http://www.usaha.org Karen Conyngham would like to thank the officers and members of the following associations for their most generous financial support to the ILR Government Relations account in 2013: Greater Appalachian Llama & Alpaca Assoc. Kentucky Llama & Alpaca Assoc. Llama Assoc. of the Middle Atlantic States Michigan Lama Assoc. Midwest Lama Assoc. Ohio River Valley Llama Assoc. South Central Llama Assoc.
55
Change in ILR Office Staff ILR News Release September 16, 2013 Over the past several years the ILR Board has tried diligently to balance our budget in the face of declining revenues. The costs of programs and services are outrunning income. Efforts have been made to increase income as we have increased programs offered to the membership. Office hours have been cut to a minimum, which has impacted our ability to provide services to our membership. It is clear that we can no longer continue as we have been going and a drastic change in approach is required. By mutual consent, the Board has negotiated a severance package with our current Registrar, Jan Wassink. Jan will be leaving the ILR in a joint agreement to cancel what is left of his 5-year contract. This agreement is motivated by economic considerations, specifically a dearth of funding available. Jan has been invaluable to the development of the programs and services currently offered by the ILR and will be deeply missed. However, as part of the severance agreement, Jan has agreed to remain in an advisory role throughout the transition period. Workloads and responsibilities are going to have to be significantly modified. Dar and Susan will be in the office to help you with all your needs and will do their best to fill your requests. They will be carrying a heavier burden therefore we ask for your patience as we work toward getting our services being offered in balance with the income being received from the llama community to support those services. The office will continue to be open Monday through Thursday, with phone hours 9:00am - 3:00pm Mountain Time. With this additional reduction in manpower, everyone's patience will be necessary as we cannot afford the level of service we have all enjoyed in the past. We are optimistic that the changes being made will enable us to continue to offer quality services and programs to the llama community. With your support we will be able to support you. www.lamaregistry.com
Clipper sales repair serviCe - parts Blade sharpening Most Brands
and
Models
Brown’s Clipper serviCe
217-414-8126
Jay C. Brown 1119 South 4th Street Springfield, il 62703
SCLA Library
Barbara Welch, Librarian
(830) 885-2388 • dbldare@gvtc.com
Books A Guide to Raising Llamas – Gale Birutta (10132) A Well Trained Llama – By Paul & Betty Barkman (10167) Along Came a Llama -- Welsh farmer adds a llama to her farm (10041) ALSA Llama Judging Clinic (10098) Aunt Millie’s Guide to Llama Fiber - By Mike Brown (10166) Body Scoring Llamas & Alpacas, by Bob Beede, DVM (10128) Before and After Llamas -- humor (10086) Building Small Barns, Sheds and Shelters -- Monte Burche (10116) Camel's Zoo Book 2 -- children (10023) Caring for Llamas, A Health and Management Guide (10043) Caring for Llamas and Alpacas - 2nd. ed. (10043) Evaluating a Llama Pack for Comfort and Function (10122) Fifty Things to Do With a Llama by B. James (10147) Felt making Techniques & Projects by I. Evers (10149) Handbook for Llamas -- first aid (10017) Hands On Spinning -- Lee Raven (10107) Harley – by Star Livingston Illustrated by Molly Bang (10173) Heat Stress; Prevention & Management, by Myra Freeman -- (10130) I Care About My Animals – animal rights guide (10124) If I was a Llama -- children (10112) Llamas & Alpacas as a Metaphor for Life - by Marty McGee – (10148) Llama&AlpacaNeonatalCare,byB.Smith,DVM;K.Timm,DVM;P.Long,DVM.--(10131) Llama Babies -- Up, Dry & Nursing -- Anderson (10133) Llama Driving – By Ron Shinnick (10169) Llama Nutrition Clinic Notes -- LaRue Johnson, DVM (10138) Llama Packing for Youth, by the ILA Youth Committee -- (10129) Llama Training on Your Own – Helen Bodington (10168) Living with Llamas -- Rosana Hart (10020) Llamas Can Beat the Heat -- Texas cooling techniques (10035) Llama Medicine and Surgery -- Texas A&M (10022) Llama Medicine, Veterinary Clinics of North America -- (10082) Llama Training, Who's in Charge -- (10027) Llamas: Their Personality and Expressions -- (10114) Llama Tricks -- Step by Step Method -- by Linda Hayes -- 10142 Leaders Manual for 4-H Llama Activities (10156) Love a Llama -- children (10097) Making the Most of Your Llama – By Linda Beattie (10165)
Medicine & Surgery of South American Camelids -Fowler (10135) Medicine & Surgery of South American Camelids – 2nd ed., (10153) Packing with Llamas -- (10048) Raising Llamas in Alberta, Why Are They So Popular? -- (10123) Roberts Rules of Order (10152) Ruminations from the Back Forty - by John Mallon (10178) SCLA 1992 Conference -- ring binder (10104) SCLA 1993 Conference -- ring binder (10079) SCLA 1994 Conference -- ring binder (10100) SCLA 1995 Conference – ring binder (10080) SCLA 1996 Conference – ring binder (10130) SCLA 1998 Conference – ring binder (10150) SCLA 2000 Conference – ring binder, (10163) Scraping Heaven - by Cindy Ross, donated by Teresa King (10179) Secrets of the Andes (10040) So You Share Your Life with a Llama - by Susan Peterson (10177) Speechless Brothers (10106) Spinning Llama & Alpaca -- by Chris Switzer (10134) Spinning Llama & Alpaca 2nd Edition – By Chris Switzer (10171) The Camelid Companion (Handling and Training your Alpacas and Llamas) – by Marty McGee Bennett (10172) The Field Guide ... In Search of the Ideal Llama – conformation info (10113) The TTEAM Approach -- McGee (10117) The (Mis)adventures of the Llamas at Hunter Hill – Hubbard, Ryberg (10174) Today and Tomorrow Llama Investment Analysis --1990 (10047) Turning Wool into a Cottage Industry -- (10042) The Waldo Chronicles -- a training log -- (10129) Veterinary Llama Field Manual - By Norman Evans (10145) Youth Llama Project -- 4H guidebooks (10045) 4H Instructions -- SCLA (10118) Packing with Llamas 4th edition - Stanlynn Daugherty (10161) Notes from Dr. Norman Evans' llama conference on 4/1/2000 (10164) 3rd Annual Camelid Health Program - Ohio State University (10170)
Newsletters and Magazines SCLA Humming Herald Red Hot Llamas -- Smithsonian 8/94 (10101) Newsletters from other llama associations
57
Video Tapes All About Llamas I -- Llama Basics (10007) All About Llamas II, Breeding, Birthing and Newborns -- (10008) Animals on the Farm -- Video aimed at children/4-H clubs - (10134) Basic T.T. E.A.M. with Llamas - by Marty McGee (10005) Camelid Handling Secrets Volume 1 Medical Management - (10025) Click & Reward -- Training Video -- (10141) Click and Reward – Vol. II –(10159) The Competitive Edge in the Showring -- ALSA guidelines (10073) Felt Making by Hand -- Basic Process -- Vickrey (10143) Fences, Barns and Feeders (10085) Five Star Llama Packing (10001) Grooming and Basic Training -- SCLA (10063) How to Use the Kwick and Slick Grooming Tool – (10160) ILA Marketing Video (10111) In Search of the Ideal Llama -- conformation (10095) Inside 4-H Llamas – By ILA (10155) Llama Reproduction -- Part I & II (10009/10) Llama Training with Bobra Goldsmith -- (10003) Mallon Method, The - Difficult to Halter (10180) Mallon Method, The -- The First 24 Hours (10125) Mallon Method, The -- Halter Training Basics (10140) Rolfing a Llama -- (10103) SCLA 1995 Ft Worth Sale -- (10108/09) SCLA 1994 Conference Awards -- (10102) SCLA 1998 Conference Videos (two) – (10151) SCLA Seminar -- (Jensen) heat stress, nail trimming (10011) Spinning Wool, Basics and Beyond -- by P Zawistoski (10139) Step by Step Shearing -- for alpacas and llamas (10126) Texas A & M Seminar -- (Fowler) infectious disease & heat stress (10013) Teaching Your Llama to Pack – Marty McGee with Stanley Daugherty –video – TWO COPIES: --(10158) Texas Country Reporter – featuring John & Linda Keltgen (10157) Training Llamas to Drive -- (10044) Treasures of the Andes -- PBS (10090) "Treating" your Llama Kindly -- handling techniques with Dr. LaRue Johnson and Marty Mcgee (10128) TTEAM Approach to Herd Management -- McGee (10070) Vermonters Just Like to Felt Hats – video (10154) What Do You Do with a Llama? -- photography, Ley (10119) Why llamas? -- (10014) 58
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
Wonderful World of Llama Wool, The -- McGee (10121) Working In the Round Pen (3 tapes) John Mallon - 10124 Working with Difficult Llamas....by Ken Ploeser, (10162)
DVDs Llama Talk -- Cathy Spalding, Gentle Spirit Llama Training with Bobra Goldsmith Running of the Llamas: a documentary by Heidi Freier c. 2008 (10200) Spinning Luxury Fibers (3 DVD set) Judith MacKenzie Spinning Wool, Basics and Beyond -- by P Zawistoski Mallon Method, The -- Difficult to Halter Mallon Method, The -- The First 24 Hours Mallon Method, The -- Halter Training Basics Vermonters Just Like to Felt Hats -- The Herd of Northern Vermonters Wonderful World of Llama Wool, The -- McGee Working In the Round Pen (3 DVD set) John Mallon
Equipment Tooth-A-Matic rental $20 plus deposit SCLA members can check out items by emailing or calling Barbara Welch, Books may be kept for one month and video tapes for two weeks. Items are mailed at SCLA's expense. You pay the return postage. Please return to: Barbara Welch 12830 Rebecca Creek Rd. Spring Branch TX 78070 Email Barbara at dbldare@gvtc.com or phone: 830-885-2388. Updated June 2011
Display Advertisers Leslie Lane Llamas............................................... Front Cover Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo........... Inside Front Cove Henry Hills Llamas............................................................... 34 Live Oak Pet Services.......................................................... .50 Brown’s Clipper Service....................................................... 56 Red River Llamas/Llama Things......................... Back Cover
Advertising Rates Payment will reserve your placement and will be accepted for up to four consecutive issues. Please include $7.00 for each “loose” photo accompanying your ad. Please do not submit ink jet printouts of photos as the quality is sub-standard.
Member Rates:
Front Cover...................... $125.00 Inside Covers.......................$80.00 Back Cover..........................$90.00 Full Page..............................$65.00 Half Page.............................$55.00 Quarter Page........................$45.00 Business Card......................$30.00 Insert Your Flyer.................$75.00 Classifieds.................25¢ per word ($ 3.50 minimum)
Non-Member Rates:
Front Cover...................... $175.00 Inside Covers.......................$95.00 Back Cover....................... $105.00 Full Page..............................$75.00 Half Page.............................$65.00 Quarter Page........................$55.00 Business Card......................$35.00 Insert Your Flyer.................$85.00 Classifieds.................40¢ per word ($ 5.00 minimum)
Humming Herald Deadlines
Specifications Print Ready Ads: Acceptable print ready ad formats are files at 300 dpi as a Press Quality PDF, TIF, EPS or PSD file. Please zip or stuff your file for faster email transmission. Digital Photo Submission: When taking digital photos, it is always best to set your camera to its highest settings, which will give you the least amount of pictures on your memory card. Email the photo - in its original condition - to hummingherald@figmentranch.com for review. If your photo is not of the proper resolution, you will be notified. Full Page Ad: Half Page Ad: Quarter Page Ad: Business Card Ad:
7.5” x 10” 7.5” x 4.725” 3.62” x 4.725” 3.62” x 2.25”
Spring...........................February 1 Summer............................... May 1 Fall...................................August 1 Winter........................ November 1 Mail Print-Ready Copy to: Ruby Herron 17102 Mueschke RD Cypress, TX 77433
Contact her with questions at 713-249-8523 or figranch@flash.net Additional copies of the Humming Herald are available at a cost of $5.00 each plus $2.25 per copy for shipping. Copies must be ordered by deadline date. Send check, made payable to SCLA at the address above.
59
Membership Application Form
South Central Llama Association (www.scla.us) Name:____________________________________________________________________________________ Ranch Name:______________________________________________________________________________ Address:__________________________________________________________________________________ City:_________________________________________ State:____________ Zip___________________________ Phone : ( ______) _____________________ Email:_____________________________________________ _____Please DO NOT print my name in the Membership Directory (handed out to the public) Annual Membership Fee: $40.00 per household. All memberships expire January 31st of each year. $20.00 for first-time members who join after July 1. Please mail a copy of this membership form with your check (payable to SCLA) to: SCLA MEMBERSHIP P.O. Box 163654 Austin, TX 78716
Associate Youth Membership Application Form South Central Llama Association (www.scla.us)
Youth Name:_______________________________________________________________________ Ranch Name:_______________________________________________________________________ Address:___________________________________________________________________________ City:__________________________________ State:________________ Zip___________________ Phone : ( ______)_______________________
Email:_____________________________________
Date of Birth______________________________ Name & Address of Adult Sponsor: ____________________________________________________________________________________ _____Please DO NOT print my name in the Membership Directory (handed out to the public) Youth Associate Memberships are non-voting and expire December 31st of each year. Annual Membership Fee: $10.00 per youth, ages 5-19. $5.00 for first-time members who join after July 1. Please mail a copy of this membership form with your check (payable to SCLA) to: SCLA Membership P.O. Box 163654 Austin, TX 78716
60
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
60
Only if we can learn to work together will we realize our strength in numbers. Free your mind and think. Figment Ranch
61
“for all your llama needs...... call Carolyn�
cmyers@lyntegar.com www.Llamathings.com Complete Herd Dispersal 62
Humming Herald Newsletter Winter 2013
806.676.6659 Lakeview, TX 79239