Sheering is an all day event. ??? comes in and sheers all the alpacas in one day. Starting with the lighter ones and working towards the darker ones.

Alpacas are generally not too fond of being touched, so they have to be held pretty secure for sheering. To do this, their feet are secured to ropes, the back feet stationary and the front feet on a pully. The front feet are then pulled forward until the alpaca is stretched out and must lay down. The person at the head then tips them sideways and holds their head on a pillow. This modified yoga position renders the alpaca basically imobile, but does not seem to be particularly uncomfortable.

Once down, ???? quickly gets to work. She sheers one side, then the alpaca is rolled over and she sheers the other side. She even does a pedicure and dental check while the alpaca is holding so nicely still.

While Belle was being sheered it was discovered that she was VERY pregnant. This was quite a surprise to everyone. Unfortunately, about 2 weeks later, Syl had to perform a very difficult delivery of a stillborn baby.

Roxie was not feeling very good prior to sheering. And her prognosis was not very good. But after consulting with the vet it was decided to sheer her, so that she would not be uncomfortable in the hot days that were forecasted.

Both girls seemed very happy to have those hot coats off on such a sunny day. And they went out to join the other funny looking, skinny necked alpacas in the pasture.

Roxie before sheering.

Roxie after sheering

Belle before sheering

Belle after sheering

Photos of the girls

Alpaca home