Alpacas have become increasingly popular in Germany too - whether as a hobby, for breeding or simply as a companion on relaxing hikes. In this blog post we would like to give you an insight into daily life on an alpaca farm, from caring for the animals to special experiences with the fluffy four-legged friends. If you are thinking about keeping alpacas or breeding alpacas, you will find useful information and tips here.
Keeping alpacas in Germany: What you need to know
Keeping alpacas requires planning and responsibility. In Germany, it is not only important to keep the animals in a species-appropriate manner, but also to pay attention to legal requirements. A suitable stable, changing pastures and contact with the animals are essential for their well-being. If you want to buy alpacas, it is important to think carefully beforehand about how you can offer them a species-appropriate home.
Our small herd of alpacas spends most of the day on the various pastures that we use in rotation so that the grass can recover. At night they sleep in their stable on our farm, where they find protection from the weather and predators. Their stable is big enough for them to feel comfortable and offers them protection and warmth even in winter.
Morning routine: grazing and grooming
The day on our alpaca farm starts early. First, we take our alpacas to one of their pastures, which we use in rotation to avoid overgrazing and keep the grass healthy. Alpacas are gourmets and it is important to offer them high-quality grass and hay. In the morning, we therefore check whether there is enough hay in the pasture and refill it if necessary. The water also needs to be changed regularly and refilled.
Another part of our morning routine is cleaning the stable. Alpacas are naturally very clean animals and have fixed "toilet" spots that they use regularly. This makes our work much easier because we only have to clean these few spots and thus keep the pasture clean.
Alpacas and their daily routine
We check the pastures throughout the day to make sure everything is in order. We pay particular attention to the well-being of our animals in extreme weather conditions - whether it's heavy rain or extreme heat. Alpacas tolerate cold better than heat, but if it rains too heavily we often bring them back to their stables or to one of the shelters in the pastures.
Our alpacas are very trusting thanks to regular contact. Since we always do small tasks around the pasture and the stable, the animals see us as an integral part of their lives. This regular contact creates a deep bond and makes the animals particularly friendly to people.
Evening routine and care of the animals
In the evening we bring the alpacas back into the stable. Before they go to sleep, we clean their "toilet" areas again and take care of the animals. Depending on the need, we cut their nails or examine their fur to make sure they don't have any parasites.
The physical care of the alpacas is an important part of our work. It's not just about making sure the animals look good, but also about their health. Alpacas have special needs when it comes to caring for their fur and nails, and as an owner you should always keep this in mind.
Collecting hay and going hiking
On some days we have to collect fresh hay from neighboring farmers. This hay is an important source of food, especially in the winter months when grass in the pastures becomes scarcer. We also regularly organize short hikes with the alpacas, either alone or with guests. These hikes are not only a great way to explore the surrounding area, but also give the alpacas extra exercise and the opportunity to eat fresh grass along the way.
Hiking with alpacas is a wonderful experience. Alpacas are gentle and curious animals who love company. They walk quietly and relaxed beside you and their presence has a calming effect on people. Such hikes are also a great opportunity to introduce guests to the world of alpacas.
Keeping alpacas – A fulfilling everyday life on our small alpaca farm
Life with alpacas is fulfilling and requires dedication and care. From daily stable cleaning to caring for the animals and hiking, every day is unique and offers new challenges and joys. If you are thinking about keeping alpacas, you should make sure you are ready to take on this responsibility. Alpacas are not only cute animals, they also require a lot of attention and care.
However, if you decide to buy alpacas and keep them in Germany, you will find that they are wonderful companions. Their gentle nature and unique charisma make them a valuable part of your life.
