Llamas and Alpacas
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Body Condition Scoring of Llamas and Alpacas
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Featured Articles
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ArticlesTherapy and Prevention of Hepatic Lipidosis in Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDTreatment of llamas and alpacas with hepatic lipidosis and feeding management methods to lower the risk for this disease. -
ArticlesUrinary Blockage in Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDA brief explanation of urolithiasis, predisposing factors, and health implications. -
ArticlesRecognizing Hepatic Lipidosis in Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDThis publication explains hepatic lipidosis including its causes, how to diagnose it early, and methods for treatment and prevention. -
ArticlesWhich One, Loose or Block Salt Feeding?
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDThis article discusses salt sources and intake and offers recommendations for salt feeding for alpacas and llamas -
ArticlesInquiries on Skin Diseases and Eating Problems
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDLearn about skin diseases and eating problems in camelids. -
ArticlesPohopoco Creek Alpaca Farm
Pohopoco Creek Alpacas, located in Effort, PA has been recognized by Penn State Extension as an Environmentally Friendly Farm. -
ArticlesDetermining Forage Quality: Understanding Feed Analysis
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDLearn how to use feed analysis to determine forage quality, and exactly what feeding a high quality forage means. -
ArticlesEffects of Forage Quality on a Camelid Feeding Program
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDA discussion of forage type, quality and amounts needed for feeding llamas and alpacas -
ArticlesHepatic Lipidosis in Camelids
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDA brief look into the pathogenicity and prevalence of hepatic lipidosis among camelids. -
ArticlesBody Condition Scoring of Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDBody condition scoring (BCS) using a 5-point scoring system is an easy and effective way to determining an animal's fat stores and long-term energy balance. -
ArticlesWhere'd the Sun Go? Vitamin D and Bone Development
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDThis article explains the benefits of vitamin D in bone development in llamas and alpacas and the relationship to rickets in growing crias. -
ArticlesCopper Nutrition in Camelids
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDLlamas and alpacas require dietary copper (Cu) to help maintain normal body functions but in excess this trace mineral can be toxic. -
ArticlesHow Well are They Growing
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDLearn about camelid growth, growth requirements, growth curves, and proper data collection. Readers may submit growth data for their own camelid(s). -
ArticlesFeed Analysis: It's All About Energy
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDLearn what grains are, what they contain, and how they can be used to meet the nutritional requirements of llamas and alpacas. -
ArticlesLlama and Alpaca Research Opportunities
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDResearch opportunities regarding cria growth for both llamas and alpacas. -
ArticlesProblems Following Grain Consumption
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDA response to a question about a llama that frequently regurgitates his food after eating; possible explanations and details issues related to grain consumption.
Getting Started
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ArticlesEffects of Forage Quality on a Camelid Feeding Program
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDA discussion of forage type, quality and amounts needed for feeding llamas and alpacas -
ArticlesHow Well are They Growing
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDLearn about camelid growth, growth requirements, growth curves, and proper data collection. Readers may submit growth data for their own camelid(s). -
ArticlesFeed Analysis: It's All About Energy
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhDLearn what grains are, what they contain, and how they can be used to meet the nutritional requirements of llamas and alpacas.
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Resources and Programs
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Animal Diagnostic Laboratory
Read MoreFull-service lab and research center that provides in-depth, rapid diagnostic information to support disease control, health management, and performance of animals. -
Pennsylvania Nutrient Management Program
Read MoreThis program provides a comprehensive source of information about the Nutrient Management Act (Act 38, 2005), and associated technical guidance and educational information. -
Pennsylvania Women's Agricultural Network
Read MorePA-WAgN supports women in agriculture by providing positive learning environments, networking, and empowerment opportunities.



