Author:
Jill McElderry-Maxwell
Bag End Suri Alpacas of Maine, LLC, Maine, United States

Date of Publication:
unknown

Publication:
Bag End Suri Alpacas of Maine, LLC

Disclaimer:
The author of this paper is not a veterinarian. This article synthesizes published research by veterinarians, personal experience, and the experiences of other camelid owners with respect to thiamine depletion. It is for reference purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for veterinary consultation.

Overview:
The vitamin thiamine plays a critical role in alpaca health. Thiamine depletion can happen rapidly from a large number of causes and will lead to death unless promptly remedied by the immediate administration of injectable thiamine. Thiamine is inexpensive, but only available by prescription (in the United States) – and every camelid owner should have a bottle from their vet on hand at all times.

Any time an alpaca shows signs of neurological impairment, a shot of thiamine is a worthwhile precaution: “Thiamine is a safe and useful therapy any time we suspect neurological insult” (Evans, p. 39).  It can never hurt, and it may help save your animal’s life.

Read the rest of the article: polioencephalomalacia.pdf