One Llama's Fatal Ordeal - (Brown Recluse Spider Bite)

Jack and Tracy Pearson spent 3 weeks trying to save their 2 month old Cria from a Brown Recluse Spider Bite. The brown recluse spider is found mainly in the central Midwestern states southward to the Gulf of Mexico. After many years of raising hundreds of llamas, this was the first and hopefully the last time they will encounter with this type of injury. Tracy commented that due to the fuzzy little face they did not see any signs of a problem until it was to late, but they tried for 3 weeks to save her anyway.

The cria lost half her body weight in 2 weeks (after they discovered the first indication of a problem). As you will see from the pictures above, the spider bite was in the jaw. Her little face ended up with a large hole so she was unable to drink any liquid and eating became a problem. Tracy had to tube her to keep her hydrated, and with the help of loosely held gauze (using vet wrap to hold in place) they mixed a gruel for feed. They orally drenched her mouth with peodolite. With a regiment of antibiotics and constant care they thought they were starting to see some progress but she slipped backwards with the infection spreading throughout her system. After 3 weeks her body shut down.

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Jack and Tracy Pearson:

Pearson Pond Ranch & Llama Co.

242 Llama Lane (Charles Lane), #6017

Ellijay, GA 30540

Phone: (706) 276-3658

Fax: (706) 276-3680