Alpaca Matters Midwest - Annual Conference: March 3-4, 2007

Thank you to those who participated in the Alpaca Matters Midwest Annual Conference.

Mark your calendars for the Conference in 2008; March 1-2, 2008

On Saturday, morning we had local veterinarians and breeders present information essential in caring for alpacas. This session included: a presentation by Dr. Bruce Oscarson of the Osceola Veterinary Services in Osceola, Wisconsin, a fiber lab, an alpaca owners basics lab, and a panel discussion where participants were able to ask questions about owning and raising alpacas. Each of these sessions was designed for participants to learn alpaca basics, and the labs provide an opportunity for hands-on learning in small groups. As a part of Alpaca Basics, each person received the Alpaca Basics Conference Notebook. Last year it was so popular that people who did not attend the session wanted to buy their own copy; this year it is only available to Alpaca Basics attendees.

Then in the afternoon renowned camelid veterinary, Dr. LaRue Johnson was our keynote speaker. Topics included in this session were:

Alpaca Conformation and Breed Standards:

Examples of conformation (both desirable and undesirable) will be demonstrated. In addition, examples from other species will be discussed as "food for thought;" participants will then be asked to consider the need for breed standards.

Ethics and Breeding:

This presentation includes some preliminary definitions that will form a foundation for a discussion of several scenarios that one may experience as a breeder and to discuss what should be done.

Alpaca Infertility:

The most common causes of infertility in both the male and female will be presented. Diagnostic and therapeutic considerations if appropriate will be included.

Peer to Peer Discussion:

Saturday evening we held a Vets Only Session. This was a great opportunity for vets to ask questions and consult with Dr. Johnson and their peers about issues they have encountered in their practice with alpacas.

Then on Suday we had a Neonatal Clinic! This was a wonderful opportunity for breeders!

There are two parts to the Neonatal Clinic:

A lecture on the reproductive anatomy/physiology of males and females, breeding options, pregnancy diagnosis, care of the pregnant dam, normal delivery, difficult delivery, delivery assistance, and neonatal considerations.
Lab sessions will include: a "dry lab" discussion of delivery assistance using a cria mannequin and pelvis simulator; and a "wet lab" using donated dead crias in uterine simulators for the purpose of hands on diagnosis and delivery of various presentations. Registration is limited in order for individuals to benefit from the hands-on labs. Sign up early to guarantee your space at the Alpaca Matters Neonatal Clinic!

Feel free to email us if you have questions.