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What's
the difference between an alpaca ranch and an alpaca farm
- nothing that we can tell! It seems to be more of a regional
preference.
When
you do some research on the alpaca you will visit a variety
of different facilities. Some are large production ranches
where the animals receive less human attention than say
a smaller breeders farm. This doesn't mean that one is better
than the other in terms of quality or price. You will know
if you like the place or the people or the animals or hopefully
all three. Depending on what you want to do with your animals,
consider what the ranch can offer. Many offer the same purchase
and boarding contracts based on the AOBA standards. But
be careful, because those contracts can include charges
for services that you should be aware of. For example some
ranches charge for worming, others don't if you help out.
Rates can vary for daily boarding charges also.
If
you see animals that you like and are considering buying
- find out what kind of after sales
service you will get and what you can expect to pay
for services that aren't provided as part of your contract.
Ask for a contract and prices in advance. Most ranches will
be happy to sit down and go through this with you. Also
check that if you do board animals that there is actually
somebody there to take care of them for you.
If
you are financing make sure that the ranch is clear about
the financing period and who you will be paying. Normally
you will not get the ownership of the animal until it is
paid for. The ranch usually will carry the insurance on
the animal in case anything happens before you have paid
for it - check on this.
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