Is the Llama suitable for the purpose you intend?
Have the llama checked by a veterinarian
- Tell the veterinarian what you are planning to use the llama for. This will help him/her as they examine the llama in relation to your needs.
- The veterinarian may find problems that the seller was completely unaware of, such as a slight eye defect, or a heart murmur. That is, if the vet finds a problem, it does not mean that the seller was aware of it ahead of time.
- The veterinarian may identify problems that in fact are not going to be a problem, considering what you are planning to use the llama for. However, it is still a good idea to know what you are buying.
- Full reproductive checks of young llamas to be purchased for breeding are usually just not possible. In fact, young female llamas should not be checked internally; it is just not safe for the llama. (The conscientious breeder and vet will usually refuse any such request.) What is generally done in this case is that the buyer and the seller come to an agreement about reproductive guarantees.
What are you going to use it for and what would be important factors
- If you are buying a llama in order to pack, is it trained to pack? Is it big enough? Is it conformationally sound for packing? Does it seem to have a calm attitude or be easy to get along with?
- If you are buying a llama for fiber, does the llama have fiber the color and quality that would work well for spinning and/or weaving?
- If you are buying a llama for showing, does it have the characteristics suitable for showing (conformation for conformation classes; intelligence and willingness for performance classes)?
- If you are buying a llama as a companion animal, does it have a normal and good disposition? An abnormally "good" disposition is something to be wary of. If the llama is young and rushes up to you and is "in your face", pass it up. Very likely this will be a real problem llama in the future. A normal good disposition is curious, not necessarily wishing to be touched, but tolerant of touch, once caught.
- If you are buying a llama as a guard animal, then it should be active, athletic, and have good conformation. It should also be moderately aggressive/friendly towards dogs.
Bear in mind that the preceding so far represents the opinions (not facts) of a single person.
