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Training
Because llamas are prey animals and have the instinct to run for their life and the basic tendency to move away from any demand we make on their space or their bodies, they require a different training approach than with predator type animals. In many respects these techniques are similar to recent developments in equine training ['horse whisperers'].
Since 1986, we have studied every popular llama training method, making our training approach an eclectic method, using what we think is the best of each technique, in each individual training requirement. We now are quite high on "Click & Reward" (see: The Story of Taro and the Clicker ).
The advantage of "C & R" is that it puts the llama in the position of wanting to learn. We don’t have to speak a subtle language to get him there, either. The clicker gives us the ability to reward the behavior that we would like to promote immediately. As soon as our subject learns to associate the click with the reward, and by clicking when the llama is exhibiting the desired behavior, the trainer can achieve results at an optimum rate. This is an invaluable difference from previous training techniques.
Soon, the llama is coming to the trainer looking for what he can do to please, whatever it may be, instead of running away shaking his tail at any request for contact.
4-H:
Touch the Earth offers non-llama-owner youths entry into the 4-H, in El Paso County (Colorado Springs) CO area. E-mail the El Paso County 4-H Llama Project Superintendent for information.
We provide llamas and training help for 4-H youths so they can have the experience of learning llama handling, training, and maintenance of this beautiful and intelligent animal. Because they are so intelligent, they are a challenge for a youth to control, and much value can be obtained by learning this control while helping us train our llamas. There is no cost to participate in the Llama Project with us, only a small 4-H membership fee. The minimum requirements to complete the project are: (1) Keep and complete a Project Record Book, record all events connected with project participation, take pictures, record training problems and solutions, etc. (2) Show a llama in "Youth Showmanship" class in at least two recognized shows (may be any local llama show).
Participants can learn - Llama training basics - Haltering & fitting - Desensitizing - Llama showmanship - Performance training - Training for the pack saddle - Llama conformation - Grooming & basic care - Shearing & fiber use - Llama public relations - Advanced training methods - Llama costume - Llama square-dancing.
Some Informative & Friendly Llama Llinks:
Click & Reward training Website: http://members.aol.com/Snowridge1/index.click.html
Usenet Newsgroup: alt.animals.llama http://groups.google.com/groups?q=group%3Aalt.animals.llama&btnG=Search&meta=site%3Dgroups
A free advertising/posting camelid service: http://www.llamas-alpacas.com/
Rocky Mountain Regional Breeder's Association: Rocky Mountain Llama & Alpaca Association: http://www.rmla.com
American Llama & Alpaca Show Association ALSA: http://www.llama.org/alsa/
A very good all-around llama/alpaca reference site: http://www.llamapaedia.com/
Good Llama link to local ranches: http://www.thellamaranch.com/ranches.html
