13. Finding Peace Amongst Alpacas with Shalon Smith

Shalon Smith is the owner of Belvoir Mine Alpacas, a ranch in Ophir, California where she raises alpacas and offers educational experiences, yoga, sound baths, and a boutique featuring alpaca products. Shalon's passion for alpacas began when she stumbled upon an alpaca farm while living in Bass Lake, and she ended up buying 13 alpacas before even having a place to keep them. Over the past 12-13 years, Shalon has grown her business to include boarding alpacas for others, offering therapy and wellness programs with the animals, and selling alpaca products, all while navigating the challenges of running a small farm with her husband often living in different states. Shalon finds great joy in sharing the calming presence of the alpacas with others, especially those facing difficulties in life.

Key Topics:

1. Shalon's Background and Alpaca Journey:
- Shalon's husband works in construction and is often away, so she decided to start an alpaca ranch as a stay-at-home mom.
- She had no prior experience with animals but became fascinated with alpacas after visiting a local ranch. She started volunteering there to learn, and eventually bought 13 alpacas.
- Shalon had to find a ranch property and get set up to care for the alpacas, all while her husband was living in another state.

2. Unique Characteristics of Alpacas:
- Alpacas are male-induced ovulators, so the males and females have to be kept separate to prevent over-breeding.
- Alpacas have a unique way of identifying individuals through "breath exchanging" - they smell your breath to recognize you.
- Alpaca poop is sterile and can be used as a natural fertilizer, making them great grazers for a property.

3. Shalon's Alpaca Business and Offerings:
- Shalon offers boarding services for people who want to own alpacas but don't have the space.
- She provides educational experiences and tours for children, adults, and organizations like rehab centers and shelters.
- Shalon offers wellness experiences like yoga, sound baths, and therapy sessions with the alpacas.
- She has a boutique on the ranch that sells alpaca products like yarn, socks, and garments.
- Shalon works with a local alpaca ranch to sell their yarn in her boutique, supporting other small businesses.

4. Shalon's Passion and Heart-Centered Approach:
- Shalon finds great joy and fulfillment in sharing her alpacas and ranch with others, especially those going thr

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