Therapeutic interaction with alpacas

Alpacas have appeal in Central Oregon, certainly for Marlene Baldock.

She's the owner of Desert Song Alpacas in Sisters. She lives in the Cloverdale area with husband Jerry, a freelance photographer, their rescue border collie mix dog, Jasper, and 13 Huacaya alpacas. Baldock utilizes her Huacaya herd of 13 in a special way.

Desert Song Alpaca Farm consists of three pristine acres, exclusively for alpaca roaming. The backdrop of a waterfall flowing into a pond adds a soothing ambiance. Baldock had been considering the Alpaca as a pet not too long after they made their first appearance in the U.S. in 1984.

"I started with six alpacas just over two years ago, two males and four females," said Baldock. "I wanted a small herd with the intention of them having crias (babies)."

Word got around and soon friends and local residents came by to visit Desert Song Alpacas.

"One of my biggest joys of having alpacas is being able to watch people interact with them; they especially enjoy children," said Baldock. "They will go right up to the kids out of curiosity, they are extremely curious animals."

The alpaca is a peaceful animal with a tranquil temperament.

"I talk to them and they will come right up to me and touch noses," said Baldock. "They hum. That's how they communicate."

Many find the contented humming sound to be a soothing therapy.

"Back when my children were young and with the 4-H, I always enjoyed being around the therapy animals," said Baldock. "I am looking forward to being able to bring one of my alpacas as a therapy pet to visit handicapped children and adults; it will bring a sense of wonder and peace to them."

To arrange a visit to her Desert Song Alpacas, call Marlene Baldock at 541-297-5041.