Ok, it's kind of like Spring Cleaning, its just with your herd. No one likes to be out in the barn when the temperatures are below freezing (or below zero)! And we all tend to semi-hibernate, just getting the basics done in the barn. But when March rolls around, the days are warmer and the sun says "come out and play", we all find that its more exciting to spend our days in the barn hanging out with the alpacas. This is the time to get up close and personal with what I call T & T day. Yes, that's right - Teeth and Toenails. It's all quite easy - herd everyone into a catch pen and then one by one take a look at their teeth and their toenails. Do any of them need trimming? Now you can do this two different ways - either grab the toe nail trimmers and take care of it now or put the alpacas name on a list to come back and do them in the next week or two. If you don't trim the teeth yourself, get the alpaca on a list for the next vet visit. Keeping the teeth and toes trimmed are essential to their good health.
I know toenails can be difficult, its probably one of the worst herd management details that I do; however, there are many ways to get it done. Some alpacas are pretty laid back and you just need to halter and tie them to a panel and, starting with the front left leg, start trimming as you move around the alpaca. Remember to keep a hand on their body as you ask for the foot so they feel you there. And don't hesitate to let the foot down if the alpaca starts getting uncomfortable. Give them a minute and pick the foot back up. For the more difficult cases, put them in the chute. I find I sometimes have to use the belly strap to keep them standing. If they cush, just be careful when you pull the foot out to not twist their knee. And for the very worst case scenarios, wait for the vet to assist. There's no shame in asking the vet for help - I have a few of those myself. And if you have a pregnant female who needs her toes done and she's difficult, consult with your vet. It may be better to wait for shearing or after the cria is born.
I like to have a T and T day at minimum - twice a year. But if you know you have some alpacas whose teeth or toes grow faster than others - be sure to check them more frequently, like every couple months.
And most importantly - between checking each animal, take a minute to stop, look around, check out the sky, feel the warmth of the sun on your face and remember - there's no better place to be then out with your herd.
Till next Time...
