Most of us who have owned alpacas for any length of time have experience treating skin conditions. Diagnosing skin conditions has been difficult and there are a number of theories out there about the cause – or causes – of skin conditions. The symptoms we generally see are hair loss and toughened or crusty skin, especially on the areas of the alpaca’s body that are not covered with fiber (muzzle, belly, lower legs, etc). Some have suggested a zinc deficiency or improper absorption of zinc, but mites are most commonly assumed to be the cause of such skin conditions.
There are many, many different approaches to treating such skin problems. They range from simple, nontoxic treatments such as applying baby oil or bag balm, to the use of repellents such as cedar oil, a mixture like “witch’s brew” or insecticides such as Frontline or Taktic. Results so far have been hit or miss and none of us seems to have a very good handle on how to address these skin conditions.
This weekend, I attended a seminar sponsored by the New England Alpaca Owners & Breeders Assoc (NEAOBA). A long-time camelid vet, Dr Steve Purdy gave a talk about skin conditions and made a simple recommendation for treatment – Vaseline. This is one farm that is looking forward to the opportunity to give Vaseline a try. We’ll stock up before shearing and, when we have the alpacas restrained on the table, use the opportunity to check them over carefully and put a good coat on any questionable areas. I’ll try to remember to take some before and after photos. We’ll let you know what happens.