Salem Alpacas
Our Story
Alpacas originate on the Altiplano, the elevated plateau in the Andes that rises up to 4,000 metres above sea level. Alpacas were first imported into Canada in 1988, and we have been a Premier Ontario breeder of high quality huacaya alpacas. We are grateful for the help of family, friends, farm helpers, and co-op students.
Our Products
All of our products begin with alpaca fleece, a much sought-after and luxurious natural fibre famous for its durability and warmth. In fact, alpaca fibre is up to 8 times warmer than sheep wool and, because it is non-allergenic and free of lanolin, it feels like cashmere! No need to worry about skin irritation. Alpacas are white, brown, black, and everything in-between totaling 22 different colours. We shear our animals once a year, usually in mid May. Our premiere product is our line of duvets. They come in sizes ranging from crib to king and are made from 100% Alpaca Fleece batting in 230 thread count, down proof 100% cotton shell, sewn in 6” squares to keep the fleece in place and provide lightweight warmth. Our website provides information about how our duvets are made, how to care for them, and how to order. We also carry a variety of socks, sweaters, hats, gloves, mitts and scarves in many different styles and colours as well as some one-of-a-kind and souvenir items.
Where and how you can purchase our products
Salem Alpaca is located at 363 Salem Road, Manilla, about 15 minutes west of Lindsay. All of our contact information and helpful directions including GPS can be found on our website at www.salemalpacas.com. We are open Wed to Sat 10 – 5 by appointment.
Our History
Our 25 pastoral acres were originally home to horses. The plan was to enjoy a hobby farm with friends and family. But, as life often teaches us, things can take on a life of their own. Over the years, a hay field was converted into a fenced pasture, and two additions were made to our barn. We started with three breeding females in 2000, and have over the years been home to over 70 alpacas, with 30 living happily with us today. We have had thrilling days when we welcomed more than one newborn into the family in one day. And so, as our herd grew, so did our offerings of products and services.
Our Philosophy
We believe in raising alpacas in a loving, gentle, safe environment, supporting the South American people for whom the alpaca is a central part of their culture as well as local knitters and manufacturers of fine alpaca products.
What Makes Us Unique
We offer alpaca duvets made here on the farm, utilizing the warmth and comfort value naturally offered in alpaca fibre in conjunction with having that fibre locally milled into a beautiful batting that is then covered in cotton. This gives you a duvet that is lightweight and breathable and exceptionally warm. Salem Alpacas handmade duvets are available at many other alpaca farm stores, specialized bedding shops and here on the farm.
Experiences We Offer
Here at Salem, we recognize the importance of educating the public and other farmers about alpacas. As an alternative livestock which differs from cattle and sheep, alpacas require their own handling techniques, and come with their own husbandry and feed requirements. We’ve helped train Ontario SPCA officers on how to properly assess an alpaca. We’d be delighted if you visited us as a family or with a group. Contact us for more information.
Upcoming events
Salem Alpacas Farm Services have expanded as the years have gone by, to now include: the sale of alpacas, both breeding stock and fibre producers, otherwise better known as "pet stock" and animal boarding. We also offer support with farm set up and management, which may include; shearing, needling, toe nail trimming, and on occasion assistance with breeding practices. We recognize the importance of educating the public about alpacas, and because alpacas are an alternative livestock, and differ from cattle and sheep, their handling techniques, husbandry needs, and feed issues must all reflect this difference. Our efforts include hosting seminars on husbandry skills & proper alpaca handling. We have participated in training OSPCA Officers on how to properly assess an alpaca. As well, we have been the guest speaker at schools, guilds, churches and clubs. Let us know if you would like us to be involved at your function. Please call 705-786-2023 to discuss how Salem Alpacas can help support your farming operations.Things to know
