I have met so many wonderful people in the alpaca industry. There are people from all age groups and walks of life that are united only by the love of alpacas and concern for their welfare. Almost universally, they respond quickly and with the best intentions to any problem or query another breeder poses. Really, a bunch of kind hearted, and generous people.
My only problem is that I often find myself gritting my teeth at the political positions and, dare I say, rantings of some who are committed bunnyhuggers. This would be understandable and bearable if I wasn't afraid that the soul of the industry was at stake. After all, this is America, with freedom of speech, the right to assemble, and the right to be a raving looney on either side of the board as long as you aren't threatening anyone. I can certainly attest that I haven't felt threatened by a bunnyhugger lately!
So for anyone who cares...and I won't have my feelings hurt if you don't, here is my take on the alpaca industry and US politics in general. Alpacas are livestock, not pets. Yes, they are cute, but they also are hard work to raise and breed responsibly. I would like the government to "get out" my business and bedroom BUT if tax advantages are available, you can bet your bottom that I will be taking advantage of them. Lastly, all livestock industries need an end use for their product. None of us live forever and alpacas don't either. If some want to maintain fiber animals long past their prime fiber producing years that is fine. Then they are called pets. But in the US alpaca industry we need a shearling, meat, or leather market so these animals have a place to go after their fiber producing value is diminished. This outlet would increase rather than decrease the value and standard of care for the US alpaca herd in general.
OK. Off my soap box now. Tomatoes and accolades will both be accepted. Thank you for your time.
My only problem is that I often find myself gritting my teeth at the political positions and, dare I say, rantings of some who are committed bunnyhuggers. This would be understandable and bearable if I wasn't afraid that the soul of the industry was at stake. After all, this is America, with freedom of speech, the right to assemble, and the right to be a raving looney on either side of the board as long as you aren't threatening anyone. I can certainly attest that I haven't felt threatened by a bunnyhugger lately!
So for anyone who cares...and I won't have my feelings hurt if you don't, here is my take on the alpaca industry and US politics in general. Alpacas are livestock, not pets. Yes, they are cute, but they also are hard work to raise and breed responsibly. I would like the government to "get out" my business and bedroom BUT if tax advantages are available, you can bet your bottom that I will be taking advantage of them. Lastly, all livestock industries need an end use for their product. None of us live forever and alpacas don't either. If some want to maintain fiber animals long past their prime fiber producing years that is fine. Then they are called pets. But in the US alpaca industry we need a shearling, meat, or leather market so these animals have a place to go after their fiber producing value is diminished. This outlet would increase rather than decrease the value and standard of care for the US alpaca herd in general.
OK. Off my soap box now. Tomatoes and accolades will both be accepted. Thank you for your time.
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