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Body Condition Scoring of Llamas and Alpacas
Articles

Body Condition Scoring of Llamas and Alpacas

Body 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.
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Featured Articles

Therapy and Prevention of Hepatic Lipidosis in Llamas and Alpacas
Articles
Therapy and Prevention of Hepatic Lipidosis in Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
Treatment of llamas and alpacas with hepatic lipidosis and feeding management methods to lower the risk for this disease.
Urinary Blockage in Llamas and Alpacas
Articles
Urinary Blockage in Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
A brief explanation of urolithiasis, predisposing factors, and health implications.
Recognizing Hepatic Lipidosis in Llamas and Alpacas
Articles
Recognizing Hepatic Lipidosis in Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
This publication explains hepatic lipidosis including its causes, how to diagnose it early, and methods for treatment and prevention.
Which One, Loose or Block Salt Feeding?
Articles
Which One, Loose or Block Salt Feeding?
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
This article discusses salt sources and intake and offers recommendations for salt feeding for alpacas and llamas
Determining Forage Quality: Understanding Feed Analysis
Articles
Determining Forage Quality: Understanding Feed Analysis
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
Learn how to use feed analysis to determine forage quality, and exactly what feeding a high quality forage means.
Effects of Forage Quality on a Camelid Feeding Program
Articles
Effects of Forage Quality on a Camelid Feeding Program
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
A discussion of forage type, quality and amounts needed for feeding llamas and alpacas
Hepatic Lipidosis in Camelids
Articles
Hepatic Lipidosis in Camelids
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
A brief look into the pathogenicity and prevalence of hepatic lipidosis among camelids.
Body Condition Scoring of Llamas and Alpacas
Articles
Body Condition Scoring of Llamas and Alpacas
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
Body 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.
Where'd the Sun Go? Vitamin D and Bone Development
Articles
Where'd the Sun Go? Vitamin D and Bone Development
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
This article explains the benefits of vitamin D in bone development in llamas and alpacas and the relationship to rickets in growing crias.
Copper Nutrition in Camelids
Articles
Copper Nutrition in Camelids
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
Llamas and alpacas require dietary copper (Cu) to help maintain normal body functions, but in excess this trace mineral can be toxic.
Feed Analysis: It's All About Energy
Articles
Feed Analysis: It's All About Energy
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
Learn what grains are, what they contain, and how they can be used to meet the nutritional requirements of llamas and alpacas.

Getting Started

Effects of Forage Quality on a Camelid Feeding Program
Articles
Effects of Forage Quality on a Camelid Feeding Program
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
A discussion of forage type, quality and amounts needed for feeding llamas and alpacas
Feed Analysis: It's All About Energy
Articles
Feed Analysis: It's All About Energy
By Robert J. Van Saun, DVM, MS, PhD
Learn 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

  1. Animal Diagnostic Laboratory
    Full-service lab and research center that provides in-depth, rapid diagnostic information to support disease control, health management, and performance of animals.
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  2. Pennsylvania Nutrient Management Program
    This program provides a comprehensive source of information about the Nutrient Management Act (Act 38, 2005), and associated technical guidance and educational information.
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  3. Pennsylvania Women's Agricultural Network
    PA-WAgN supports women in agriculture by providing positive learning environments, networking, and empowerment opportunities.
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