An alternative therapy: Hug an alpaca!

Animal companionship has long been known to have positive effects on our mental health. From our favourite household pets like dogs and cats to farmyard animals, having furry friends can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Maybe it’s a daily walk around the park with your pooch, or pats with the office dog to keep the spirits high? Well for something different, have you ever considered cuddling with an alpaca? Here at Shamarra Alpacas, we believe in the soothing and calming power of alpaca companionship, and guarantee you’ll head home feeling even happier and more buoyant than when you arrived.

First, let’s talk about why alpacas make good animal companions. Alpacas are gentle, curious, and intelligent animals. They’re social animals that enjoy human company and are known for their calming presence. Unlike some other animals, they’re not prone to sudden movements or loud noises, making them a good choice for those who are anxious or easily startled.

On our tour, you’ll be able to get face to face with our alpacas, feeding, petting and cuddling them – with no fence in the way! Our fluffy friends are also often keen on a cheeky selfie, so bring your phone along to get a snap for the scrapbook. We are a fun and safe experience for all abilities and ages – everyone can cuddle an alpaca.

But there’s more to alpaca therapy than just the cuteness factor. One of the most important benefits of physical touch is the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes feelings of relaxation and bonding. Cuddling with an alpaca can help release oxytocin, which can in turn reduce anxiety. In fact, research has shown that spending time with animals can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels, all of which are associated with stress!

 

Gail F. Melson, Ph.D., a professor of developmental studies at Purdue University, has conducted extensive research on the relationship between humans and animals. In her book “The Animal Connection: Why People Need Animals in Their Lives,” she writes, “People seem to benefit most from animals that give them a sense of comfort and unconditional love.” Alpacas certainly fit the bill, with their soft woolly coats and gentle nature!

But don’t just take our word for it – let’s hear from some of our visitors to Shamarra Alpacas.

Frank said: “The experience with the cute little alpacas was soooo great!!! We spent a lot of time petting those cutest alpacas and had a calm and happy time with the adorable creatures.”

Annmarie said: “I shared my experience with 3 young adults with disabilities and 2 other support staff, what a wonderful place. The alpacas were friendly, fluffy, cuddly and fun to watch. The staff on the farm were very generous and made the boys feel at ease with the animals. We all had a fabulous time there. Thank you so much.”

If you’re eager to leave the stresses of daily life behind, why not check out Shamarra Alpacas? Our guided farm tours include lots of cuddling and petting time with our furry friends, and you get the opportunity to learn everything there is to know about these cute-as creatures. You can even take a piece of alpaca fluffiness home with you, with our Shamarra Collection – it’ll feel like endless hugs! Our alpacas are some of the friendliest and fluffiest around, so you’re sure to have a good time and enter a state of blissful happiness.