Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we require at least two physical able bodies to control the alpacas while we attach the restraining straps and lay the alpaca on the ground . You will need to gather the fleece as we take it off the alpaca in order for us to properly shear the alpaca.

In addition you will need to bring the alpaca to the mat for shearing . It is best to have the alpacas penned and haltered, in close proximity to the shearing mat. Extra charges will be necessary if we have to assist in capturing the alpacas or there is significant delays between shearing alpacas. We will let you know when to have the next alpaca ready as we are shearing.

You may also be requested to hold the alpaca head down on the mat while we are shearing

1. We need a clean, dry, well lit area . If the weather is pleasant we prefer to shear outside. The light advantage and less collected dust provide for a better shearing environment. However we will bring a flood light for additional lighting.

2. We will bring a padded mat to shear the Alpacas, however if the area is dirty please provide additional tarp to protect our mat

3. We will need 110 electrical outlet or extension cord to the area.

4.We will need at least one anchor point if we can bring our vehicle to the shearing area. Two if that is not possible. These anchor points but be secure as we will be attaching our restrainment system to the anchor point , Trees fence post , gates will work as long as they are solid and do not move. The two anchor point should be approx. 18-20 feet apart

5. You will need bags to collect your fleece . If you do not want the fleece we may take it depending on its condition.

6. Your alpacas must be dry. We cannot shear wet alpacas ! I cannot stress this enough , our clippers will not go through wet fleece.

7. Your alpacas should be penned in close proximity to the shearing mat.

8. You must provide Alpaca halters and leads for your animals to be led to the shearing mat

Additional items that are beneficial but not required.

- airline for use to blow out clippers when changing blades

-water for drinking

-shaded area or awning if outside in the sun

Yes if requested , fee is $10.00 for front or fighting teeth. I can advise whether or not the teeth need trimmed.

Yes if requested by the owner, fee is $5.00 for all four per animal . Owner may trim them while we are shearing as long as the owner is not slowing down the shearer.

Below are the most recent fees. A specific quote can be provided by calling or texting to Rick at 937-538-9895

April & May 2025 Shearing Fees * Note- beyond May 2025 subject to additional charges for out of season shearing.

* Minimum fees -$175.00 within 10 miles, $ 225- beyond 10 miles

* Alpacas- $35.00 per alpaca * Note - $50.00 per alpaca for animals with 2 or more years of fleece.

* Llamas- Typically we do not shear Llamas due to their aggressive nature however if the owner can secure the Llama either on the ground using our setup or standing and calm for a belly shear. The cost will be $50.00

* Nails - $5.00 per animal ( client may trim during shearing as long as it does not interfere with the shearer )

* Teeth- ( if needed) - $10.00 per alpaca ( this is for front or fighting teeth)

*Travel - call for a quote

* Reschedule fees- All non- weather related rescheduling will be subject to addition fees based on location and time of reschedule

Once per year. in the spring April through May. The alpaca produces a coat throughout the winter months to keep warm . During the summer months if the coat is not shorn the Alpaca can become stressed and extremally overheated. An alpaca that has more than a one year coat is also difficult to shear. This is why the alpaca shearer may charge more for Alpacas not shorn annually.