We have heard it said over and over again that ever since September 11th people are looking into different ways of living their lives. Many of us have re-evaluated our lifestyles and realize that what is most important to us, family, has taken a back seat to our stressful, time consuming careers. Alpaca ranching can help bring the family values back and relieve some of the stresses we face daily working in this fast paced world.
Alpaca ranching is not a get rich scheme. You must work hard just like in any career in which you want to succeed. However, since it is your own ranch that you will most likely be marketing the work itself is so much more rewarding. Just like all animals simply observing alpacas can relieve most stresses you have during the day.
Well if most animals will relieve stress than why choose alpacas over let’s say cattle ranching? Here are some reasons to consider alpacas:

In the 1980′s the first alpacas were imported into the United States. ARI, Alpaca Registry, Inc., registers all alpacas. The high dollar request for this livestock demands accurate records of pedigrees and lineages. Since record keeping was not a priority in the South American countries, origin of alpacas, the registry closed to undocumented alpacas in 1998. Today the industry has grown to over 85,000 registered alpacas. According to AOBA, Alpaca Owners and Breeders Association, as of April 2006 over 3900 members have registered with inquiries coming in monthly.
The price of alpacas has not gone down since the 1980′s. Alpacas are a high dollar livestock where males can average between $1000-$50,000 and females from $15,000- $35,000. Of course it all depends on the animal’s quality.
Alpacas are environmentally friendly. They have pads on their feet much like dogs that will not harm your pasture. Alpacas have a communal dung pile. Unlike horses and cows they will create one or two areas to go to the bathroom, therefore the pasture will not burn from their feces. Alpacas cut the grass when they eat. They do not pull the grass out by its roots like other livestock. Since alpacas only have teeth on the bottom of their mouth and a palate at the top they are not considered biting animals. Alpacas are considered to be child friendly.
Their fiber has been called “the fiber of the gods” due to its strength, luster, staple length, water resistance, and elastic characteristics. Alpaca products are considered a luxury item and can be sold for high dollar prices.
There are tax benefits for owning an alpaca ranch. Consult with your accountant for more information.
Whether it is huacaya or suri alpacas these animals are very easy to fall in love with. The alpaca rancher community is very friendly and willing to share their knowledge. Almost all alpaca ranches welcome visitors. So, if you are looking at spending more quality time with your family and want a job that can bring enjoyment to you all then perhaps alpacas is the industry you want to join.