Dogs attack Turlock-area alpaca farm, killing and injuring multiple animals
A pack of dogs attacked a Turlock-area alpaca farm earlier this month, killing and injuring several animals in the herd.
The incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. Nov. 10 at Macedo’s Mini Acre, where about six dogs broke into the pasture. The attack left 11 alpacas and one llama dead at the business just south of Turlock in Merced County.
“It’s a little tough,” Maureen Macedo said. “I keep crying.”
The Macedos, who had a total of 82 alpacas and llamas on their farm before the attack, are providing care for the injured animals on-site.
Merced County Sheriff’s Department spokesman Deputy Michael Domingue reported that animal services officers are actively working to capture the dogs. So far, two of them have been trapped.
“It’s not very often you get a pack of stray dogs attacking animals in that manner. Being out in the countryside like that, limited food option turns into an unfortunate event when they’re maybe trying to just fend for themselves,” Domingue said.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services reported that domestic dogs are the second-leading predator of livestock, surpassed only by coyotes.
Macedo said they are focusing on catching their breath and getting through the holiday season. Having worked with alpacas for 20 years, she said they have no plans to step away. She also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received from the community.
Normally during the holiday season, Macedo’s Mini Acre is open, but she said she doesn’t want people to see the animals right now. “They’re recovering, but not really pretty,” she said.
Macedo said this is the first time they’ve faced an issue with dog attacks. While coyotes occasionally have passed by, they’ve never bothered the livestock. One of the larger dogs forced its way through the gate to gain access, she said.
“They pack up and they’re not the same, they’re not your little pet anymore,” she said.
Macedo said the farm doesn’t have the budget to add the extra two to three feet of fencing needed to prevent future attacks. The issue lies with the dogs being allowed to run free, she said.
She’s concerned over the looming veterinary bills but said most of the injured animals are recovering well. One alpaca suffered a shoulder injury that will take longer to heal, while another lost its top knot.
“We’ll manage somehow. Not easily,” she said, adding that people should leash their dogs.
Macedo’s Mini Acre is currently selling much of their stock at a reduced price. “We are seriously downsizing and have alpacas at prices that do not reflect their quality,” reads a messager on its website. It also will be at Pageo Lavender Farm’s Holiday Market on Nov. 30 for those looking to support the business.
This story was originally published November 25, 2024 at 1:11 PM.
