Shearing Bobby
To get Bobby shorn, we have to take him back to the farm where we bought him, as shearing alpacas is specialised and needs special equipment. Well, we got the trailer ready and managed to get the halter on Bobby, our alpaca, but we couldn't get him to move anywhere. He was so stubborn and wouldn't budge. In the end we had to ask our neighbour for help - he was great and practically picked him up to get him to the trailer and in. Bobby was well behaved when we got there (with a little help), especially on the shearing table, as he didn't make a peep. His fleece was darker than I thought, under the dust. He is a very dark brown. Of course he now looks very skinny and funny looking. The shearing assistant helped get Bobby back in the trailer. She walked in front of him walking backwards and saying "walk on", and he followed her wonderfully. I obviously need some training in leading an alpaca. The problem is shearing only happens once a year. I guess the answer is practicing in between, but I wonder if I'll find the time to do that.