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Llamas as Guards

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Adaptations

I thought I’d share some of the adaptive techniques that help me to run a small primary production business and handle the alpacas.

Firstly, I have the support of Ken, who is sighted and assists with husbandry tasks such as toenail trimming, injections etc. 

As far as handling the alpacas & llamas I have invested in a chute which makes husbandry tasks much easier. As I have colour perception I can tell the difference between all my animals as they are different colours or have different markings and patterns.

Obviously reading an animals body language can be challenging, I compensate by trying to understand all their different forms of verbal communication. It is much easier for me working with llamas as they are bigger. I spend a lot of time just sitting in the paddock with my camelid family. Over time they have gotten quite used to me being around so nowadays I can get very close without causing any stress.

I also have a new mobility aid which is very helpful. It is a mini guide and basically it vibrates as you get close to things, (Or thing get close to you). It is very handy in training and interacting with the alpacas as I can tell when they are starting to get closer.

Another important factor is allowing for easy movement between paddocks. As the alpacas really don't like Khan, I don't use him in the paddocks and a white cane is not all that helpful over open ground. I have a tendency to follow fence lines. Having animals that come when they’re called or follow a bucket makes life easier.

Running the business would not be possible without my computer and screen reader, most of my applications are in excel or word as these are easy to navigate using the screen reader. Everything I do is on computer, I have designed letterhead, cashbooks, record keeping systems, written our business plan and designed this website. I use a scanner to read letters, books and incoming invoices, unfortunately if they are hand written or have lots of lines Ken needs to read them to me, this is unfortunate as I can’t get away with buying anything without him knowing!!

I have along way to go before I could confidently say I can look after my alpacas independently, it is a challenge but over time I think I will be able to confidently say I manage my little herd all on my own.

Media Coverage

I have been filmed as part of a TV documentary called Miracles from the Wildside. It is about the interaction between people with disabilities and animals. It has not aired yet, not sure when it will, but it was lovely to take part in such a wonderful production. Khan and the alpacas were definitely the stars of our segment. I must thank John and Lorraine of Glenoma Alpacas for their assistance with the filming.

Khan and I have also featured in the 2003 Annual Guide Dog Report. They feature a couple of their clients every year and Khan and I were honored to be asked to have our photo and story in last years report. I think you can view the report at the Guide Dogs (NSW/ACT) website.