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Gold standards needed for alpaca care, researchers say
There are an estimated 60,000 alpacas in the UK.
Study discovers significant variations in alpaca husbandry.

Researchers have found significant variations in how alpacas are cared for in the UK, leading to calls for gold standard protocols of alpaca husbandry to be established.

A survey of alpaca owners found that the dose and frequency of vitamin D supplements varied significantly between holdings.

There were also differences in clostridial vaccination, with large variations in the location of injections. The study also found that nearly a quarter of alpaca owners did not discard open vaccine bottles within the recommended time frame.

These findings have led the research team at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) to call for further research to establish gold standard protocols for alpaca vitamin D supplementation and vaccination.

The survey, which received responses from 116 alpaca holdings across the UK, also revealed that 100 per cent of those surveyed sheared and foot trimmed their alpacas.

The number of alpacas being kept in the UK has risen rapidly over the past few decades, growing from around 145 alpacas in 1992 to an estimated 60,000 alpacas in 2023.

Beth Reilly, teaching fellow in small ruminant health and flock management at the RVC, said: “Alpaca owners do vaccinate their alpacas against clostridial diseases; however it is clear further research is needed to establish an evidence-based gold standard vaccination protocol for this species.

“There is evidence that very varying degrees of vitamin D supplementation is occurring on UK alpaca holdings, and we strongly encourage alpaca owners and vets to openly discuss vitamin D supplementation in their animals.”

Recently graduated veterinary surgeon Abby Middleton, who led the research, added: “The survey itself highlights the advantages of vets and owners working together and it was great to see the willingness of alpaca owners to invest time into research surveys such as this.”

The full study has been published in Vet Record.

Image © Shutterstock

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Vetlife nominated for campaign award

News Story 1
 Vetlife has been shortlisted for the Association of Charity Organisations (ACO) Campaign of the Year Award 2024.

The nomination recognises its campaigning to raise awareness of neurodiversity within the profession and produce resources for individuals and workplaces. Vetlife's campaign has included talks, lived experience blogs, and an awareness video.

Kirstie Pickles, Vetlife trustee and project lead, said: "I am thrilled and delighted that the Vetlife neurodiversity awareness campaign has been shortlisted for the ACO Campaign of the Year Award 2024"

The winner will be announced 12 September 2024. 

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News Shorts
Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.