One of the most accurate ways to measure a llama is to have your llama stand squarely on a level surface next to a wall. Take a carpenter's level and lay it over the llama's back at the withers (on the shoulders just where the neck joins). Let one end of the level touch the wall and get the bubble in the middle. Then make a mark on the wall under the end of the level. Now you can move the llama out of the way and measure up the wall to the mark. This is a fairly simple way to measure your llamas. If you wish to purchase a manufactured measuring stick, contact the AMLA at 406-755-3438 (International Lama Registry).
If you plan to show your minis you may wish to make a "mini show stick". This simple device will be used to measure minis at llama shows starting in 2009. A measuring device, such as a carpenters level, which uses a "bubble" is open to some interpretation by the measurer. The "mini show stick" doesn't measure the size of your mini, it simply confirms that he or she is 38 inches or less at the withers and therefore eligible to be shown in a miniature llama class. Simply put: the " mini show stick" removes any doubt as to whether your llama will qualify to be shown in a mini class. If you construct a "mini show stick" and your llama fits under it at home, then it will fit under a "mini show stick" at the show grounds. |
