Camelid Blood Drive
December 23, 2025
We will be holding our annual Camelid Blood Drive @ Onley Grounds Farm CV23 8AJ on Monday 26th January 2026.
On this day we take blood from donor alpacas which is then transported to the Pet Blood Bank for processing to produce plasma. Plasma is a vital part of treating crias who don’t get enough colostrum at birth. At risk crias should be blood sampled at 36-48 hours old to assess whether they have had enough colostrum and if not, plasma can be given to boost antibody levels and try to prevent infections. Plasma is also an important part of treating any crias who do get sick.
At risk crias include those who are: low birth weight, premature, dysmature, those born to maiden girls who may not have as much colostrum and assisted births who may take time to suckle due to stress.
Plasma is not commercially available so this is our only way of producing this product and as we want to pass on antibodies that are specific to your farm, it’s important that each farm has its own supply. There is a disease risk in using plasma from other herds.
If you would like to register your interest in attending this day or for more information, please call the surgery.