Each animal in your herd should have it's own file or folder. I use 1-1/4 inch 3-ring binders and keep clear plastic sleeves on hand so I can have the following in each folder:

• ILR Registration Certificate
• Health Records (weight, blood work, etc.)
• Breeding and Birthing records (including offspring weight gain, etc.)
• Pictures of the animal, sire and dam, offspring
• Vaccination and deworming records
• Purchase information (if the animal wasn't born here)
• And any other information about the animal

I also have a picture of the animal on the cover, with the animal's name, sire and dam, and date of birth.

If animals are sold off your farm, you can provide the new owners with information on the animal by giving them the folder. You should keep copies for yourself so you can create a database of your animals and you will also be able to identify and track any genetic or hereditary flaws that may become evident.

I keep a notebook in the barn and note any changes in behavior or any treatment I give to my animals, even if it's trimming toenails. This information is then transferred to the files in my office so my records are up-to-date.

If you have a sick or injured llama, keeping records of treatment and recovery time may well help someone with the same situation in the future! We can all learn from one another and support one another this way, and we learn more about our animals, too!