About SWLR

SWLR is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization incorporated in New Mexico and funded by donations and adoption and surrender fees.

Mission Statement

To protect the quality of life and improve the well-being of abused, neglected and unwanted llamas and alpacas through prevention, education, intervention, placement and life-long care.

What We Do

Rescue

SWLR’s area covers the states West of Mississippi: Arizona, California, Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington.  SWLR is completely reliant on volunteers to field calls from authorities and private citizens, investigate the issues, formulate a plan, and assist the llama/alpaca(s) in need.

Adoption

When llamas come into the care of SWLR, they are given a health check, vaccinated, dewormed, shorn, and toenails cut. The llamas then go to one of our SWLR volunteer ranches where they are prepared for adoption into pre-screened homes.

Rehabilitation

Rescued llamas/alpacas suffering effects from neglect, abuse, medical issues, malnutrition, lack of training may need additional care from SWLR before they can be placed in homes. Some llamas/alpacas remain with SWLR long term because of age or chronic or severe issues.  

Education

The members of SWLR are active educators in the community. It is our hope that through sharing knowledge about llamas/alpacas and their needs, we can improve the lives of llamas/alpacas and the people who love and care for them.  We work with schools and youth groups as well as volunteers in our ongoing commitment to llama/alpaca education. 

Activities
We offer activities to the public such as llama/alpaca walks and visits for individuals and groups. If you would like to visit one of our foster farms including those in Albuquerque, New Mexico and Kerrville, Texas, please contact us. Since each farm is privately owned, arrangements must be made in advance.
Fostering
We are in need of foster homes in all our SWLR states. We also need sanctuaries for those llamas/alpacas that are not adoptable due to age, health or behavioral issues. If you can help, please contact us! To foster a llama/alpaca, the process is the same as for adoption, except you don't have to pay an adoption fee.

Have a question for an experienced llama/alpaca handler? Eric has the answer.