Lama Community 2004 – Radisson Hotel, KC Airport – Meeting Report
August 6-8, 2004
This event will be called Camelid Community on a going forward basis starting with the 2005 meeting. Camelid Community has been set for Aug 5-7, 2005 and will be held at the same Radisson, Kansas City Airport location.
20 people attended Lama Community 2004, representing various alpaca and llama associations around the country.
LC attendees had an informal meeting with Missouri state veterinarian, Dr. Taylor Woods who also serves on the National Animal ID System Steering Committee. He gave the group an overview of the ID plan as it exists now and talked about premises ID and individual animal ID. Identification of each livestock owning premises will be handled by each individual state.
Premises ID will be a 7-digit unique alpha-numeric number. Livestock owners who own property in more than one state will need a premises ID for each property. As of now, there is no federal funding available to help producers bear the cost of animal ID devices; financial help instead is going to the database managers that will track movement once the NAIS begins implementation. The first round of cooperative agreements (grants) has been awarded so that some states can begin the premises ID process. Food animals and, in a few cases horses, are included in these pilot projects. He was asked about forms of permanent ID and said that the existing Camelid Working Group could recommend more than one form, i.e. microchips, small eartags or tattooing which would all be acceptable.
Dr. Woods said that the camelid ID working group should prepare a status report on work to date – this report is to be sent to the Steering Committee in advance of their Sept. 7th meeting. He said it would also be helpful for the registries and show organizations to compile a short overview of how quickly they can identify and report camelid owners and their premises using the systems we have in place now. Dr. Woods reminded the Missouri owners that there will be a listening session on ID in Joplin on August 27th.
It is recommended that the registries and show organizations create a field in their databases for this premises ID number.
Individuals that could not participate in this meeting in person were able to submit questions via email to be brought to various organizations in attendance. Those questions were poised to the representatives from those organizations and they provided a status report of activities and issues facing their organizations. The questions sent in and discussions from the meeting resulted in further requests for information or follow up and representatives were asked to carry those requests and follow up action items back to their boards and members and respond accordingly.
Organization Reports
Erin McCarthy, attended on behalf of AOBA and Cheryl Tillman represented the AOBA/ARI Govt. and Industry Relations committee. DNA typing (blood FTA or Fast Technology for Analysis card) is required for alpaca registration. The signature of both owners is also required. Permanent ID will be required for alpacas entering shows as of July 2005. The goal is for mandatory permanent ID to be required by July 2005 for animals entering interstate commerce as well. ARI encourages all owners to report microchip numbers of their animals that are already chipped.
Some of the questions poised to ARI included the following: Are cross-breeds able to be registered? No llama-alpaca crosses are allowed, but huacaya-suri crosses are able to be registered. This is not expected to change. This determination is based on phenotype only and the owner declares phenotype. Color photo no longer required for registration.
Is online registration available? This is in process as ARI develops a new database. Now owners can view pending registrations for their herd and they can submit the paperwork online. There is a need to be able to search the database for multi-generations however; ARI has been asked to restore this function, which was available under the previous database. Why was the jump made from ILR to the new registry? The answer is somewhat unclear, but it is thought that on paper, the pricing appeared more favorable. The transition to a new registry is still a big challenge. The ARI BOD is aware of the problems and is trying to address them. BJ Stranger is no longer the Exec. Director of ARI, but they are still operated by Association Management Group, Inc. A search is currently underway to find a suitable administrator.
Are there any imports still coming into the US? The registry closed as of 12/31/98. Currently an alpaca can be registered if both parents are registered. This covers Canadian animals too. There is no longer any screening, which was approved by membership vote. There are no plans to re-open the registry but that could be voted on in future. The feeling within the alpaca community is that the gene pool is diverse now. The focus now is on creating a level playing field within the alpaca community so the small breeder has the same opportunity to build a strong herd as the high dollar players. It is important to keep known genetics and the ability to breed up to maintain quality. FMD countries cannot export to the US; HSTAIC (quarantine site in Key West) is no longer open. Camelids could be imported from Chile. AOBA Board of Directors are: Amy McCroskie, Pres. (TX), Greg Mecklem, VP (OR), Jerry Forstner, Treas. (OH), Steve Hull, Sec. (OK), Erin McCarthy, Dir. (NC), Jeffrey Skinner, Dir. (OH), Anthony Stachowski, Dir. (OH)
Bill Coleman (WA) is now President of the ARI board. Other members are: Floyd Romanik, VP (RI) , Curt Gedney, Treas. (ID), Jack Armstrong, Sec. (WA), Shauna Brummet, Dir. (OH), David Friedman, Dir. (NY), Jodi Wever, Dir. (IN). They are very concerned about data accuracy and functioning of the registry.
Follow Up Action Items: Alpaca and llama owners have asked, why did ARI leave ILR as their database manager? Erin will get the history of why the ARI registry moved to a new registrar rather than staying with ILR.
What is the status of the funds owed to the ILR? Erin cannot reply due to legal action that has been undertaken in this case.
Sally Rucker reported on ILR activities. The ILR has online registration available. There are strict requirements for the format to submit electronic photos; be sure to get help from the ILR office before doing this the first time. The ILR doesn’t interface with herd management software since the online registration is simple to use. Only ILR members can use the online registration function. ILR website is very comprehensive and adding new features continually, such as pages for the various focus groups etc. The ILR is now handling registrations for both the mini llama association and the suri llama association. The charges are cost plus 15% for the ILR to handle registration process for these smaller groups. ILR now has established focus groups on showing, packing, fiber, miniature llamas, suri fiber, classic llamas, and color.
The ILR plans ahead financially; they have a contingency fund to make up for the lack of the ARI transactions. The number of llama registrations has been declining about 17% per year. ILR is looking for other sources of revenue such as offering registry services to other species groups; they don’t want to cut services to ILR members. ILR can for a small set up fee allow regional organizations to track changes in officers, show entry forms filled out online, etc.; this function is being field-tested now.
Part of the ILR building is rented out and generating income.
One can still purchase the membership list of people who have done business with the registry since 1/1/2001; $35 for a paper copy of about 12,751 users of the ILR. Owners who would like to keep their information current, but who have not done business during this time period, must make a written request to the ILR. Real time directory of the current ILR membership is $35. Paid members have access to this information in the database section of the ILR website at no additional charge. Alphabetized Breeder Identification list is $5 and the Alphabetized Owner code list is $5. Mailing labels can also be purchased from the ILR at a cost of 10 cents per person.
Why isn’t DNA typing required? Registrations go down each time a new rule is added. The ILR must keep the base registration fee reasonable in order to encourage compliance. The board feels they cannot require DNA typing or the Registry could be compromised. Why are non-pure llama offspring allowed to be registered? 15/16ths is the rule. There is a cross-bred entry classification. Check with the registry for a full explanation of the rules for the cross-breeds.
ILR can do instant emailing of notices of availability of the ILReport or breaking news to ILR members, then also posts that information to the web site. There is now one set membership fee for the ILR ($45) - additional members living at the same address may join for an additional $15. There is also a youth associate membership available for $10 per year. (note: the fee schedule is online at: http://www.lamaregistry.com/ilr.htm#999 )
The ILR had good results from the registration amnesty but will not do an amnesty on a regular basis. The ILR fee schedule is not padded; it is necessary for those fees to remain at the lowest possible level to promote llama registration.
Can rescue organizations transfer registrations when they take on registered llamas? It is best not to transfer registrations until actual adoptions take place, and then the registration must be changed to reflect the new owner. ILR will track the position of these animals at any time. Unregistered rescues can be listed but NOT registered. There is a $40 fee for listing. Geldings and designated non-breeders can be listed for $15.
A suggestion by one attendee that regional associations might want to consider subsidizing new members in ILR.
Screening: There is a moratorium in place. Llamas must have 2 registered parents in order to register as of now. Debate is ongoing regarding possible closure of the registry. In 2008 the board will address screening. The board welcomes input and will solicit comments on screening. The board is taking a go-slow approach on an issue of this importance.
The following graphic shows the distribution of llamas by herd size. The majority of llama herds now number fewer than 65 animals with a large portion being under 20 animals.
Follow Up Action Items: Feedback was given that some of the information available on the ILR website is inaccurate. ILR is asked to make sure anything on their website is confirmed to be accurate and current.
A request is made that ILR send out separate email awareness messages when procedural or policy changes occur such as fees adjustments, etc. Request is made that all rates for ILR services be listed each time an update is sent out. Is there a way to allow the downloading of the newsletter able to happen more quickly since currently it can take up to 30 minutes or more to complete?
A question was raised asking if the seller could get a price break on registration if THEY do the transfer and be sure the change took place. Sally will take this suggestion back to the board.
Erin McCarthy represented AOBA. Who is on the Board and can this information be posted on the web? Erin listed the current AOBA and ARI officers (see above ARI section). This information is also posted on the AOBA web site. www.AlpacaInfo.com is the alpaca marketing website. The official AOBA site has all membership information and is password protected. It can be found at www.alpacaowners.com. How are AOBA committees filled? AOBA committees include: marketing, show rules, judges training, education, fiber, govt. and industry relations, affiliates, winter and summer conference. There is no set policy for filling committees; resumes are taken and the AOBA board looks for best skills for that particular committee. Board votes on committee membership for marketing. Size of committees varies from 5-12 members. Committee members interact directly and use assoc. headquarters as the central repository for information. All minutes are posted on the website and are published in OneVoice (quarterly). Dave Belt reported that Alpacas Magazine is now sold in Borders, Barnes & Noble, and other major bookstores. The magazine is published 5 times per year.
AOBA sends out email alerts to the membership. Members should check their spam blocker if they are not getting alerts. These alerts are also archived on the web site.
There are currently 4100 AOBA members. One can be an ARI member without belonging to AOBA., but cannot show an animal without it being ARI registered. Membership fees are $125 /yr to belong to AOBA, $75 for associate membership. These fees are set in the bylaws. There is also a marketing membership available. AOBA spends about $1 million for marketing per year. $400,000 on print media alone. Their total budget is about $2 million. Income is generated via membership fees and an annual auction of female alpacas (some donated) which generates about $1 million with consigning breeders getting most of the money and AOBA taking a consignment fee.
AOBA’s spring meeting is always Fiber to Fashion or F2F (they are now encouraging clothing designers to submit drawings featuring alpaca fiber) and May/June is the annual conference and show. F2F will be in Atlanta in Feb. 22-27, 2005 at the Atlanta Hilton and details will be posted to alpacainfo.com under Calendar events. There is a directory of fiber resources in booklet form under development for everything from shearing, raw fiber processing to spinners and equipment sales. This booklet is due out by early 2005. Alpaca fiber is a developing product. There is acknowledgement that it is not likely to be a huge commercial industry in the US anytime soon since the current US alpaca clip would only keep a mill going for about a week. Australia is offering to buy US alpaca clip but at only 80 cents per pound and US producers are not currently selling abroad.
The 2005 AOBA annual conference will be held next summer in Salt Lake City, UT.
Follow Up Action Items: A request was made at LC 2003 to AOBA and ARI to identify possible alpaca representatives to the Camelid Alliance in order to facilitate coordination on governmental and regulatory issues impacting camelids. Attendees at LC 2003 though it critical that llama and alpaca groups work together on these issues since the government views us as one group. Erin is not sure the AOBA and ARI BOD’s were aware of this request and recommends a specific request for follow up to the AOBA/ARI board for any specific action items be made.
Some AOBA/ARI members indicate they are not getting the email notices in spite of having sent their current email information. A request is made that AOBA/ARI review the mail list being used to insure all members are included.
Official participation of ARI/AOBA is requested in the coordinated National Rescue effort.
No ALSA representative attended the meeting but the following report was sent.
THE ALPACA & LLAMA SHOW ASSOCIATION
2004 REPORT TO LAMA COMMUNITY
The ALSA Board of Directors sends its regrets for being unable to attend Lama Community 2004. We ourselves are having a face-to-face meeting in Kansas City the weekend following your meeting. We applaud you for your dedication to the lama community and continued hard work, and hope to be able to join you for Lama Community 2005. We would like to offer the following information to inform you
of the state of ALSA at the present time.
ALSA is now providing audited quarterly financial statements. This information is published on the website (www.alsashow.org) and will be published in our magazine, the Showring. Our current revenue shows an increase of $24,000 over this same period in 2003.
There is great enthusiasm in the show community again this year. 450 new members have been processed to date, with an increase of 40% in our youth membership. The ALSA office currently has a total of 13,000 animal numbers and many Adult Showmanship numbers. We have added more than a dozen new shows to date.
New classes are being offered: Adult Showmanship, the Suri Division and Youth Judging, where points and awards are obtainable. The new Suri Division is working very well, and both sides of the issue have expressed pleasure to the Board of Directors that this class was added. There has been a lot of fun at shows where members are becoming educated regarding the difference between suri and silky fiber. The criteria for the Suri Division will be printed in the upcoming handbook addendum. Adding the Adult Showmanship Class, with points being awarded, has also been received with a great deal of enthusiasm. Youth Judging is a wonderful way for our young people to understand what judges are looking for, and this new venue offers encouragement to our youth participating in ALSA shows to consider becoming judges in the future.
Numbers of animals being shown in to-to is down slightly. Some shows have dramatically increased, while others have decreased. In speaking with members across the country, many have chosen to cut back due to the rising increase in gasoline prices. The addition of new shows has also affected the numbers for older, established shows.
There is much excitement in the lama community regarding the recent decision by the Board of Directors to allow juveniles that have not previously qualified to be able to show at their respective regional show. This suggestion was made by an ALSA member, taken under advisement and forwarded to the Regional Committee for their input. The Committee was very enthusiastic and recommended that the Board adopt the suggestion. This will allow members who have crias born in the spring, who are not able to get them qualified at shows during the summer, to attend and compete at Regional shows and possibly qualify for Grand Nationals.
The Grand National Committee is hard at work planning to bring members another spectacular event. They have some wonderful surprises in store this year. The ALSA Grand National is, and continues to be, the largest and most prestigious llama show in the world. People from around the world have attended to observe our gorgeous, talented animals.
The ALSA website continues to be an asset to the members. We have had over 211,000 hits, with an average 5000 hits a month. The office continues to add information to the site, which will benefit the membership, show superintendents and anyone interested in becoming involved with showing their animals.
Follow Up Action Items: ALSA is asked to name a current BOD member to the ID Camelid Working Group.
ALSA was asked to appoint one BOD member to work closely with the IRC group.
Barb Baker represented the ICI and indicated ICI has passed $300,000 in the endowment; on the way to $1 million. A new activity is “Lunch with a Vet”; ICI will help get a veterinarian to your event as a fundraiser for ICI if organizations are interested in helping raise funds in this way.
ICI is a research archive institute; it does NOT conduct research. This has continued to be a point of confusion for some and this message needs to be reiterated. ICI is a place where the good camelid research work being done by various researchers around the world can be made accessible to every camelid owner and researcher at no charge.
ARF (Alpaca Research Foundation) donated $5,000 towards the research database. Dr. Tracy Miesner has been hired as the Associate Director of the ICI; the Institute received about 15-20 emails questions per day, most are medical and nutrition oriented. They are working towards a 24-hr turnaround time on replies to queries. Dr. Anderson is now head of OSU Food Animal Science Dept. in addition to his other duties. ARI has a check-off box on their registration form to encourage financial support for the ICI. OSU manages the ICI endowment fund. ICI submitted the following report.
TO: Lama Community 2004
FROM: The International Camelid Institute (ICI)
The International Camelid Institute got a running start this year with the generous financial support of ARI and AOBA. The funds made the office a reality and the dreams of the 40 founding camelid owners, breeders, veterinarians, and industry individuals are coming to fruition.
The future financial needs of ICI will be met by a one million dollar endowment fund, which will be raised over the next 5 years. The current balance of the endowment is just over $300,000. We can expect a 5% return on our investment each year, and 50% percent of the investment proceeds have been re-invested into the endowment fund. Additionally, we have been working on several other projects that will make the awareness and utility of ICI more widespread. These items include the web site, the emergency alert system (EAS), the camelidmed electronic newsletter, two display booths, availability of educational materials to various camelid publications, recruitment of ICI Ambassadors to spread awareness, utilizing the volunteered consultants that have donated countless hours of advice and assistance, involvement in an advisory capacity to an independent government relations committee, and availability to the camelid community via phone, or e-mail 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Here is a brief synopsis of what we have accomplished so far:
ü Tracy Miesner, DVM was hired as the Associate Director of ICI. She runs the office, acts as a communications hub, and acts as an ICI ambassador.
ü Established contact information:
miesner.2@osu.edu or anderson.670@osu.edu
Mail should be sent to: Attn: David E Anderson, DVM or Tracy J Miesner, DVM, The Ohio State University, 1935 Coffey Road, Columbus, OH 43210
Physical location: 2108 St Rt 142 NE, West Jefferson, OH 43162
Phone: 614-403-1016
ü The Emergency Alert System enrolled 567 people.
ü The Camelidmed electronic newsletter is distributed to 956 people.
ü The first “Lunch With The Vets” fundraiser was held June 13, 2004 hosted by Paul and Judy Doran of Westerville, OH. Drs. David Anderson and Toni Cotton were the ICI representatives. Barb Baker organized and executed a silent auction.
ü Nearly 200 sponsors have been listed on our web site.
ü The display has been shipped to several alpaca shows with Glenstone Farms this spring.
ü A simplified, single page, advertisement was developed to target North American camelid owners and breeders.
ü Multiple articles were made available for re-publication including information about BSE, vaccinations, de-worming, and grazing.
ü We still reply to dozens of e-mail and phone consultation requests weekly.
ü The EAS notified subscribers about Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy and it’s relevance to camelids.
ü The web site continues to develop at the skilled hands of Hank and Connie Kauffman who solicited advice from a small subcommittee last January.
ü Becky Raber developed an abbreviated logo for inclusion on other web pages.
This past year has been extremely productive and we start this year with continued enthusiasm to spread the awareness of ICI to all interested parties with the health and well-being of all camelid species as our top priority. Part and parcel to this goal we are continuing to expand the research database, which has been generously supported by a financial contribution from the Alpaca Research Foundation. Our efforts for the upcoming year will be focused on maintaining the level of service that we have achieved, increasing the size of the endowment, increasing the research database, and increasing public awareness of ICI.
We are especially thankful to the camelid community members that have found time or money to contribute to ICI. All of us at ICI are thrilled to be part of the camelid community and look forward to providing scientifically based information when you need it. Please feel free to check out the web page or contact us, we are here to help.
Sincerely,
Tracy J Miesner, DVM David E Anderson, DVM, MS, DACVS
Associate Director, ICI Director, ICI
International Camelid Initiative
2003-2004 annual financial report
Total annual budget: $48,500.00
Expenditures:
Office set-up $ 4,000.00
Remodeling $ 2,500.00
Associate Director Salary & Benefits $16,654.40
Office Assistant Salary and benefits $ 5,000.00
Library Costs (copies, computer assistance, etc. $ 4,000.00
Rent for office space @ $600/month $ 3,000.00
Office Phone Package $ 1,200.00
Office supplies $ 2,500.00
Electricity $ 225.00
Total spending: $39,054.40
Total remaining budget: $ 9,445.60
Total spending YEAR 1 (8/1/03 – 2/1/04): $39,054.40
NOTE: Outstanding fees for facilities improvements have not been closed out.
This will bring Year 1 spending to approximately $48,000.00
Research Related Reports
Hilary Ware presented the LMRG report and history that at the 1993 Llama Assembly LMRG was established with the concept of a national group to promote camelid research. LMRG does not conduct research, rather, looks for suggestions for studies and finding funding via the Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) to do recommended studies. The MAF endowment has enough funds so that donor dollars go 100% to research with no administrative costs. MAF follows up with researchers to provide updates and regular reports on research status.
There is one new study for 2004 - “Bioavailability and Pharmacokinetics of Oral Omeprazole in Llamas”, Dr. Geof Smith, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC. 1 year $10,584 requested. This study is available for funding.
Ongoing study, year three: Dr. Warren E. Johnson, PhD, National Cancer Institute-Fredrick, MD “An Integrated (Coding Gene and Microsatellite Marker) Radiation and Hybrid Map of the Alpaca”, Total for three years: $287,000. Available for funding. [see study details below]
Work on a meningeal worm vaccine is still under way with a no-cost extension. No vaccine is in sight as yet.
Hilary would like to see LMRG reports published in the association newsletters of those organizations who have provided research funding to encourage other affiliates to donate. Associations currently supporting MAF research: ARF, GALA/LAMAS, ILF, WVLF, MOPACA.
LMRG submitted the following report.
August 6-8, 2004 Kansas City, MO
Hilary Ware, chair LMRG
1. New LMRG member, replacing Dr. Kecia Smiley
Dr. Scot Lubbers (WVLF)
Amazia Veterinary Service
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
2. Newly funded study 2004-2005:
“Bioavailability and Pharmacokinetics of Oral Omeprazole in Llamas”, Dr. Geof Smith, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC. 1 year $10,584 requested. Available for funding.
“Third compartment ulcers are a common cause of sickness and death in camelids of all ages. Although the exact cause and pathogenesis of stomach ulceration in llamas is not completely understood, stress appears to be the most common predisposing factor. Unfortunately many of the accepted therapeutics for gastric ulcers in other species have been found to be ineffective in camelids and treatment of third compartment ulcers has proven difficult. The drug omeprazole has previously shown promise as a potential treatment in camelids as it was able to significantly reduce third compartment pH in llamas with intravenous doses. However, intravenous administration requires the assistance of a veterinarian and can be difficult in certain animals. A new oral omeprazole product (GastroGard® made by Merial) has proven effective for both the prevention and treatment of stomach ulcers in horses. It is an oral paste formulation and can be easily administered to animals on the farm (by the animal’s owner). Because it is so easy to use, GastroGard® is being given to camelids expected of having third compartment ulcers with anecdotal reports of efficacy. However since camelids are ruminants, the drug may or may not be degraded by rumen bacteria following oral administration. It is possible that the drug is not systemically following oral administration or that only small amounts of the drug are absorbed. The purpose of this research is to examine the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of oral omeprazole and make recommendations of how this drug should be used in camelids.”
3. Ongoing studies at Morris Animal Foundation in Llama/Alpaca Division:
Meningeal Worm Vaccine
Dr. Judith A. Appleton, PhD, Cornell University, NY "Vaccination to Prevent Disease Caused by Parelaphostrongylus tenuis" Year Three + No-cost time extension given. Depending on progress and accomplishment of this study, more research may be forthcoming getting closer to an actual vaccine.
Dr. Warren E. Johnson, PhD, National Cancer Institute-Fredrick, MD “An Integrated (Coding Gene and Microsatellite Marker) Radiation and Hybrid Map of the Alpaca”,
1st year fully funded by ARF; 2nd year: $97,000, to be partially funded by ARF. Total for three years: $287,000. Available for funding.
There are few genetic resources or tools that have been developed for camelid species, thereby severely limiting study efforts. Until now, we have only had ~80 genetic markers to use in searching for genetic items in llamas and alpacas. This was felt by knowledgeable individuals to be an insufficient number of markers to properly pursue significant research. Previously an item such as the "Minute Chromosome" was investigated with a MAF project at the U. of Minn., with no clear answers. Ceclia Penado, at the genetics lab at U.C. Davis, also had commented on the presence of the "tiny" chromosome. There were several other things as well, including choanal atresia investigations, which did not uncover useful information. A general consensus was reached that we would not further pursue individual genetic items until we had more markers available. With this current project, there is a promise of obtaining 1600 type I and type II markers, as the investigators are constructing an integrated, high resolution, whole-genome alpaca map of coding gene and microsatellite markers. Some of the markers are slowly evolving and others evolve rapidly.
This should facilitate the study of deleterious and desired traits, take fuller advantage of genetic discoveries made in other species, including humans, and to encourage a wide range of future studies by bringing camelids into the forefront of genomic studies.
4. Organizations supporting camelid research through MAF:
ARF, GALA/LAMAS, WVLF, ILF, and MOPACA (Missouri Alpaca Owners & Breeders Association)
This represents four of the eight associations represented on LMRG. (MOPACA and ILF do not have a seat on the LMRG). Other organizations represented need to consider yearly financial support of MAF camelid research.
5. Other Morris Animal Foundation news:
a) 56 new and renewed studies (of all species)= $4.276 million
b) Formation of the Jack Moore Memorial Fund through MAF administered by the International Lama Foundation. This fund will be exclusively for camelid medical research, a particular passion of the late Jack Moore.
c) MAF Veterinary Honor Roll. See article from the Maine Llama Association newsletter.
d) July 20th Ethics Meeting in Keystone: “[MAF] …. began a discussion on refining guidelines for future scientific studies. The ethical discussion was led by Dr. Bernard Rollin, a distinguished professor & bioethicist at Colorado State University. Dr. Rollin discussed the changing societal “norms” regarding animals and praised the Foundation for its good work on behalf of animals. Dr. Rollin has worked with diverse groups, including PetCo, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, USDA, animal welfare/rights groups, and many more. He led (us) through a discussion on terminal studies and pain-and-suffering, including both ethical and pragmatic considerations. Because of changing societal norms (more people living alone with their dogs, cats), animals have become true family members. Thus, as we go forward to further improve the health and welfare of these wonderful companion animals and wildlife, it will be essential that the Foundation can clearly define “humane studies” and articulate our definition with pride and conviction. Staff will be invited to help with developing the draft guidelines, which will then be presented to the board at the October meeting.
d) According to USA Today (July 14, 2004), organic pet food sales are up 63% and growing at nearly three times the rate of human organic food sales. Newman’s Own are among some of the foods. According to Nell Newman, co-founder and daughter of actor Paul Newman, “When I was a kid, pets died of old age. Now they’re dying of tumors”. Although Colorado State University professor Narda Robinson says there is no proof that organic food, at any price, can assure a pet of a longer, healthier life. it probably can’t hurt. She does suggest that pet owners first check with their veterinarians before switching to an organic food to be sure it is a balanced diet.
Follow Up Action Items: There are varying degrees of communication to regional organizations that come from their sponsored member to the LMRG. A request is made that LMRG follow up either directly with sponsoring groups or through participating members of the LMRG Committee and have them send status reports to their sponsoring organizations on a regular basis so the organizations are kept informed of LMRG recommendations.
Julie Jarvinen presented the ARF report. ARF was founded 6 years ago by ARI with financial support from the surcharge on import screening. A board of directors runs ARF; there are now 8 members. $90,000 was raised in support of research in 2003. AOBA/ARI infrastructure supports ARF in part via a check-off on membership forms. About $110,000 has been raised to date for 2004. 4 projects were completed in 2003 and 2 will be done in 2004. In 2005 ARF will follow the MAF example and accept pre-proposals for projects.
Just published: “Humoral response to West Nile virus vaccination in alpacas and llamas” by Michelle A. Kutzler, DVM, PhD, DACT; Rocky J. Baker, MS; Donald E. Mattson, DVM, PhD, DACVD Jnl. of the American Veterinary Medical Assoc.; vol. 225, #3, August 1, 2004
Objective—To determine humoral responses to an equine West Nile virus (WNV) vaccine in healthy alpacas and llamas and compare responses in alpacas and llamas with responses in horses.
Design—Clinical trial.
Animals—28 alpacas, 56 llamas, and 16 horses.
Procedure—Horses received 2 vaccinations at 4-week intervals, and alpacas and llamas received 3 vaccinations at 3-week intervals. Fifty-five llamas received a fourth vaccination 3 weeks after the third. Blood samples were collected immediately prior to each vaccination, 3 weeks after the last vaccination for alpacas and llamas, and 4 weeks after the last vaccination for horses and tested for virus-neutralizing antibodies. Samples from 29 randomly selected vaccinated llamas were used.
Results—None of the animals developed any local or systemic adverse reactions. Four of 28 (14%) alpacas, 4 of 29 (14%) llamas, and 7 of 16 (44%) horses were seropositive 3 (llamas and alpacas) or 4 (horses) weeks after administration of the first vaccination; 27 of 28 (96%) alpacas, 26 of 29 (90%) llamas, and 15 of 16 (94%) horses were seropositive after administration of the second vaccination; and all 28 alpacas and 28 of 29 (97%) llamas were seropositive 3 weeks after administration of the third vaccination.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that vaccination with the equine WNV vaccine is safe in alpacas and llamas. Administration of 3 vaccinations generally resulted in virus-neutralizing antibody titers similar to those observed following 2 vaccinations in horses; however, because it is not known what antibody titer would be protective against clinical WNV disease in alpacas or llamas, we cannot conclude that the vaccine was efficacious. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2004;225:414–416)
Allan Dewald reported on MAF activities. For a review of some MAF studies, see the website:
http://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/apply/studies/llama/current.asp
As of 2003, about 50 camelid projects have been completed; not all are reflected in the handouts for the meeting. The MAF Board meets 3 times per year. June 15-18, 2005 will be the date of the annual meeting in Baltimore; June 17th will be the scientific advisory board meeting.
Allan would like input on proposals for new projects for camelid research. See additional comments within the LMRG report above.
Animal Health
Outbreaks of VS (which has only been diagnosed in a camelid in natural-occurrence one time) in Texas, New Mexico and Colorado this year have caused some states to temporarily change their entry regulations to exclude animals from these affected states. KY and NJ are among the states imposing more strict entry requirements for the duration of the outbreak. Note that these changes in regulation also affect states that share a common border with the affected states. Please check with any state into which you are moving for the latest in regulations for your state. See the Kentucky Dept. of Agriculture’s web site for the most current information on VSV embargo entry requirements.
http://www.kyagr.com/state_vet/ah/VSV_Map.htm
http://www.kyagr.com/state_vet/ah/index.htm
Dr. Kutzler’s research is ongoing at Oregon State. APHIS-VS tracks West Nile as does the CDC. WNV, as predicted, has hit the western states hard this year. As of 8/13/04, Arizona had reported 50 equine cases and Calif. 62 cases. OSU and Colorado State Univ. are working together on WNV research in camelids using both the Merial and Ft. Dodge vaccines – a series of 3 shots has shown a good titer level reported, but now a virus challenge is the next step as it is still unknown if the elevated titer levels offer protection from the virus. Many owners are sampling for elevated titers in their herds.
Teri Baird reports Dr. Rob Callan from Colorado State Univ., in conjunction with Dr. Dick Bowen, has been experimentally using the Merial vaccine instead of the Ft. Dodge vaccine. The Merial product is a DNA-based vaccine delivered with a canary pox solution rather than a killed virus vaccine. Initial titer level responses have been encouraging although ongoing testing continues. She indicates her herd was vaccinated with the Merial vaccine and although they have seen record numbers of mosquitoes in Colorado this year, they have to date, had no symptoms of West Nile infection nor were there any adverse site reactions to the vaccine.
Due to a very large increase of rabies in native wildlife, particularly in the east, the southeastern states are doing a new bait drop program for wildlife vaccination – this is an oral vaccination. ImRab III (killed rabies vaccine) is being used extra-label by many camelid owners since there is no approved rabies vaccine for camelids. Due to the increased incidence of rabies in wildlife this year, camelid owners that have not previously utilized rabies vaccination in their animals should reevaluate with their vet the necessity of vaccinating their animals with the ImRab III vaccine. Discussions have taken place with a representative of Merial and they may be interested in working on a lama vaccine.
Follow Up Action Items: Dave Belt has a previously published article on rabies in camelids and will send to attendees.
Rhode Island had a confirmed EEE death case in a llama in 2003. This mosquito born virus is being reported a number of states on the east coast this year. Owners need to be aware that the neurological symptoms may be similar to WNV, meningeal worm, lepto and others.
In the western states there have been a number of cases where camelids have been bitten by rattlesnakes. Some camelid owners have reported use of a new vaccine produced by Red Rock Biologics. This company is believed to be the first to produce a vaccine against Crotalus atrox venom (Western Diamond Rattlesnake). The following item by Dr. Rob Pollard was printed in the conference notebook from LANA 2004:
A rattlesnake vaccine has recently been introduced for dogs, and some people are advocating using it in other species. It is important to point out that this vaccine is not entirely protective as most of our common vaccines tend to be. It is intended to minimize the effects of the toxin; however the manufacturer emphasizes that veterinary care for the bite is still indicated. I have not heard of any untoward reactions so far in off-label use of this vaccine, though any owner requesting its use must accept all responsibility for any negative consequences. While it is logical to expect it to have similar protective effects in species other than dogs, it has not been tested so no one really knows. If you believe your animals are at extreme risk for rattlesnake bites and you are interested in off-label use of the vaccine, I recommend you discuss this with your own veterinarian to help you assess your specific situation.
Note: per press items on this vaccine, it is ONLY available in California and according to one article The FDA has not approved it. All articles pertain to use of the vaccine in dogs only.
For more information on the vaccine see:
http://www.placervillevet.com/rattlesnake_vaccine.htm
http://www.thedesertsun.com/news/stories2004/features/20040517235511.shtml
http://www.turlockjournal.com/neighbors/neighborsview.asp?c=105001
http://www.canyon-news.com/artman/publish/article_1444.php
Pres. Bush signed the Minor Use Minor Species act into law on August 2, 2004. President Bush signed legislation that will help make more medications legally available to veterinarians and animal owners to treat minor animal species and also uncommon diseases in the major animal species.
Before this legislation, pharmaceutical companies could rarely afford to bring to market drugs for novel pets and zoo animals (including camelids), because the markets were too small to generate an adequate financial return.
The legislation creates a new approach to facilitating drug development through a designated new animal drug classification system. Designated new animal drugs are eligible for grants for safety and efficacy testing, and for manufacturing process development. A new Office of Minor Use and Minor Animal Species Drug Development is created whose mission is to issue the grants, determine eligibility for listing on the drug index and for serving as a liaison amongst government agencies to improve opportunity for drug approvals. The FDA will need to institute a rule making process that will govern various aspects of the MUMS legislation such as how the drug index process will work.
Note: Vaccines are biologics and NOT drugs; they will not be covered under MUMS.
Animal Care
There have been a number of situations over the past year where owners have dealt with a proposed change in their current zoning, or have bought camelids and moved them to their home only to discover their area is not zoned for livestock. Camelids are classified in some states as exotic, but nationally, USDA classifies llamas and alpacas as domestic livestock. There are benefits to this designation and any contemplated attempts to have camelids designated otherwise could have a more far reaching and damaging impact and should be considered carefully.
There has reportedly been an ongoing nationwide campaign by PETA and other animal rights groups behind he attempts to change zoning laws. Farm animal classification may restrict owners within a town or village but is better than the exotic classification. There is also a sales tax implication between being classified as livestock vs. pets. Note: The PETA attempt to have “exotic” animals banned from within the city of Denver failed in a county referendum held August 10, 2004.
It is important to be proactive with local animal control; see if your state has a “dog law”. One reason to be classified livestock is that liability can be greater if animals are considered pets. Organizations need to have the most level-headed spokesperson from any of the agencies involved in topics of this nature. ILR, AOBA and the Camelid Alliance have information on the classification and domestication of camelids which may assist owners should they be faced with a proposed change to their zoning which would prohibit housing of camelids.
Sellers are urged to inform buyers about the existence of zoning laws and follow up to assure buyers reside in an area that will allow them to keep camelids on their property. This is a helpful preventative measure that is encouraged rather than fight zoning post purchase.
Follow Up Action Items: Each organization is asked to review and understand the classification and zoning issues relating to llamas and alpacas in their geographic region. They are encouraged to work with their members to educate them on the more far-reaching impact of any contemplated changes to the current USDA domestic livestock designation. Consider designating one spokesperson for your members that will be dependably level headed and educated when dealing with these situations.
Karen Conyngham and Julie Jarvinen reported. Sources of information:
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/issues/nais/nais.html
http://www.aphis.usda.gov/lpa/issues/nais/nais_listeningsessions.html
The Camelid ID Working Group (WG) was established in January 2004 and the make up of the groups includes representatives from all parts of the camelid community. This group will draft a plan for permanent identification of camelids in response to the National Animal Identification System. According to USDA guidelines, “the role of the species working groups is to advance the USAPI [US Animal Identification Plan] through the development of more precise transition, implementation and continuity plans that are consistent with the standards and goals already established in the plan”. The objective behind the need for permanent ID is to enable state and federal animal health officials to track the location and movements of any individual animal within 48 hours of an outbreak of a foreign animal disease.
The 2 basic components of the NAIS are Premises ID which will be issued by individual states to specific geographic locations where livestock live or co-mingle (e.g. farms, ranches, auction sites, show venues) and individual animal ID with each animal receiving a unique ID number that will be permanently affixed to the animal by means of the ID devices adopted for each species.
A WG status report will be submitted to the ID Steering Committee in early September. AOBA/ARI have recommended to their members that as of July 2005 alpacas must be microchipped in order to be registered, and alpacas must have a microchip in order to be entered in AOBA-sanctioned shows.
The WG needs to conduct an education and outreach effort to determine the view of the camelid community regarding permanent ID; community buy-in is needed to make the NAIS effective. The WG understands it must be flexible and prepared to handle the changes that will come about as each new version of the national plan is released. The WG will continue to keep the camelid community apprised of ID news via the registry newsletters and association newsletters.
Follow Up Action Items: All organizations and their BOD’s are asked to make their members aware that there is a CWG established to work on the ID issues for the camelid community. Any questions, suggestions and input on permanent ID for camelids should be directed through this group, as it is the officially recognized voice of the industry to the Federal Government on the ID issue.
Sheila Fugina presented the National Lama Intervention & Rescue Coordination Council (IRC) report.
The IRC Council wants to work with the registries to establish irrevocable non-breeder status for rescue females. ILR is willing to set this up for any females who should not be bred; not just rescues. There seems to be confusion within the llama and alpaca community on the level of rescue that is happening; that not all rescue animals are neglected. Many are beautiful, healthy animals whose owners just cannot continue to care for them any longer. Animals may need a personal trust fund established for them in order to be really certain their life care is covered after the death of their owners. Zelma Clevealand will get more information on setting up legal trusts for animals. (see separate topic)
Cheryl Tillman suggests that veterinary teaching hospitals may have funds in their budgets to help do laparoscopic hysterectomies on female rescues. There is a definite need for an easy, cheap way to spay females.
The IRC would like to establish a transportation trust to get rescues from one area to another. Currently they are rely on donated volunteer time. They would like to try to keep rescues within a geographic region. The llama and alpaca community needs to handle the issue of rescues within the community in order to keep it from hurting the market. This can be done by making it a legitimate, respectable section of our industry as various pedigreed dog and horse groups have done.
Sheila was asked if rescue coordinators in rescue hub areas are being able to find vets who will work at cost or donate services? She said yes. Placement homes may even come from within the client base of those vets. Are rescue lamas sold? All organizations handle this differently. Some have an adoption fee, some do placement and some do actually sell animals (those may be the non-reputable agencies). Why neuter an intact herd? Does this have an impact on the gene pool? The rescue groups don’t want to have to go back and rescue offspring. Most of the rescues are ILR registered. Many of the alpaca rescues are not. SELR (South East Llama Rescue) goes back to the breeder who originally sold the rescued animal to see if they will take the animal back. It is the exception to the rule that the breeder will take the animal back. Are or should breeders be responsible for the animals they produce?
There might be about 5 501c (3) rescue groups out there right now. There is a second tier of personal rescue volunteers or other organizations doing some rescue, maybe 50-100, that may not be 501c(3) or are not in the loop with the industry or other rescue organizations. These groups need to be brought into the communication loop with the IRC.
The message that alpacas are showing up in rescues around the country is not something that is widely understood within the alpaca community. The overall alpaca marketing approach had been changed from investment potential to small business opportunity per Erin, however, there may be some backsliding within the alpaca community. Education of new owners is still crucial. We all need to encourage the new buyers to become more informed. She indicates that we should try to discourage new owners from becoming new sellers before they are educated themselves and prepared to be responsible sellers and this may keep rescue situations from existing in the future.
Marc Page gave an update on bottle babies, often the origin of future rescue situations. In one NJ situation this problem started in a zoo that was selling pre-weaning crias; no officials from the zoo would talk with Marc about the process. As a result, GALA developed a (Guide for) Basic Llama Care tri-fold brochure to help educate the potential buyer of these bottled crias. This brochure has been in distribution for a year. It may be reprinted by other associations but must be kept completely intact; there is a place on the back of the brochure that local organizations or farms could add their own contact information. Please contact Marc Page for a template of this brochure. (sputtermill@crystal-mtn.com)
Possible resources for spay/neutering options for rescue llamas and alpacas need to be identified and cultivated. Adopt-a-Vet program with Tufts Univ. is being used to teach future vets about camelids. Ohio State requires a certain number of hours of camelid work for students in the OSU large animal program. AASRP may also be able to facilitate this thru their network of camelid veterinarians.
Follow Up Action Items: AOBA and ARI are asked to provide representatives to work with IRC on education of the alpaca community and registry issues.
ILR and AOBA are asked to follow up and work closely with IRC on any additional registry or show organization tools that may assist the IRC efforts.
Organizations are asked to refer rescue questions and volunteers to the IRC Council (Sheila Fugina).
It was recommended IRC consistently refer in written or verbal communications to camelids since in reality llamas and alpacas are at issue. Seats on the Counsel for AOBA and ARI should be considered if those BOD’s provide a liaisons as requested to work with IRC and the future plan of action should address communications with AOBA and ARI similar to those planned with AOBA and ILR.
Julie Jarvinen volunteered to work with Sheila on approaching AASRP to investigate student internships or training that could provide spay/neutering services for rescue animals.
IRC will flesh out recommendations and identify contact information for other rescue groups to get communication channels open between groups. All groups are asked to ID known rescue groups that deal with camelids and notify IRC.
IRC Report:
National Lama Intervention and Rescue Coordination
Council
(IRC Council)
1. Purpose: To provide an efficient, inclusive system of coordinating lama rescue efforts nationwide in order to share and maximize the use of resources while providing a safety net for lamas in need of intervention or rescue
2. Define groups that become members of nationwide IRC coordinated effort
a. Identify bona fide groups
1. May be 501 C3 or 501 C5 nonprofit
2. May be organization, committee or subset of recognized lama community organization
3. May be group with historical record of interventions and rescues 4. Other as appropriate
3. Guidance Council
a. Composition
1. Council is composed of a minimum of 7 permanent seats: GALA, LANA, AOBA, ILR, SELR, and 2 rotating seats at large
2. Each organization appoints a member to a council seat yearly (no limitation on number of terms for any individual)
3. Individuals appointed to council seats will serve as liaisons from IRC to own organizations/geographic locales
b. Function: Council will:
1. Address the rescue needs of lamas, IRC members and the lama community
2. Be responsible for facilitating and coordinating information and resources for overall IRC mission
3. Prioritize, assign, coordinate and orchestrate the components and guidelines needed to synchronize nationwide rescue ability and response
4. Represent IRC at the annual Lama Community, keeping nationwide rescue efforts, concerns and needs in the national dialogue
5. Implement and maintain IRC policy infrastructure including, but not limited to:
a. Assign areas of responsibilities for IRC members
1. Data base information collection/coordination
2. Building mailing list for letters, etc
3. Compiling list of transporters
4. Policy drafting
5. Article writing
6. Fund raising
7. Volunteer coordinators
8. Transportation/other resource coordinators
9. Communication and protocols for dealing with local authorities
b. Check correctness of member contact information annually
4. Define nationwide geographic response coverage
a. Available volunteers and closest groups within IRC that can respond
b. Agree to intervene and rescue lamas in accordance with what the local
area will bear, local resources will enable
c. Use volunteers to work the rescue within the closest proximity
d. Use Minimum Standards of Care and Practice as universal guides (once
Standards are completed, reviewed and accepted by the community at large)
e. Establish protocols for working with local authorities for support in lama rescue efforts
5. Negotiate ICI involvement with IRC efforts
a. Make information provided by IRC available on website
b. Negotiate other as appropriate
6. Negotiate ILR involvement with IRC efforts
a. Record geographic contacts in database establish