Janelle and Byron Jago have thriving alpaca business at Orielton
They’re cute, woolly and have a whole lot of personality. And it turns out alpacas aren’t just good for their wool, they also make excellent therapy animals. Story.
Tasmania
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It was love at first sight 18 years ago when Janelle and Byron Jago bought their first herd of five alpacas
The couple now have 70 alpacas and a diverse and growing business including farm tours, treks, events and workshops at their property at Orielton on the East Coast.
They breed quality fleece which is processed and Janelle creates products and garments for the farm shop.
Janelle, who’s always worked in aged care, also makes regular trips to aged care facilities with alpacas inspired by Rosie, an orphan who “had exceptional qualities and behaviour towards people”.
“I was asked by a friend if I could bring her out to an aged care facility for a visit. Rosie was amazing.
“Alpacas are normally shy and don’t like being away from their herd and petted too much. Rosie was an exception.
“The joy on the residents’ faces is amazing and cannot be understated.
“Our therapy alpacas are only out for a short period of time visiting then they are back home in the paddock living the good life with their mates.”
Janelle fields regular inquiries from people wanting an alpaca for a pet and is quick to point out they are not suitable as pets like a dog.
She understands why people are smitten with them.
“People mainly love how cute and inquisitive they are.
“Let’s not forget the beautiful big brown eyes and long eyelashes. They enjoy the feel of the fleece and how soft they are. They also have a calming nature about them.”
But she stresses they are a herd animal and need to be with their own kind and “usually a minimum of three”.
“They cannot live like pet dogs in your backyard,” Janelle said.
“They need to roam a paddock as they are grazers and need space to move around browsing for different grasses.
“They need time to ruminate, rest, soak up the sun and live a calm stress free life.
“A single alpaca on its own will create a problem health and behaviour wise.”
The Jagos say alpacas are relatively low maintenance and if treated with respect and kindness are a joy and blessing to have in their lives.
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