The Indiana Llama Costume Contest (1) caught our attention as we were flipping through TV channels. We thought, "Why not give it a shot?" Sponsored by the 4-H club at the Indiana State Fair, this contest isn't just a laugh. The llamas and alpacas are in training. By getting dressed up and covered, the animals are desensitized to noise and get used to being touched so they can be therapy animals. Yes, that’s right – therapy animals.
The llamas undergo the same training as other therapy animals and trainers must meet strict standards for health, grooming, and work conditions.
Why llamas? According to Jennifer Kingson, New York Times, "the novelty factor is a big part of the appeal" of llamas and alpacas.(2) But imagine being in a care center and a llama struts into your room. I hope the surprise doesn't set you back!
Niki Kuklenski, A llama breeder in Washington thinks llamas are a good alternative for therapy for people who might think "dogs are a little too much.” Dogs are a bit too much? A Golden Retriever is an average of 60 lbs while the average llama tips the scale at about 300 pounds. And don’t the spit? According to Rowanwood Farm, Connecticut's only mini llama hiking adventure company, llamas only spit when really worked up. (3)
And llamas have a cuteness overload, with those expressive ears forming geometric shapes and those captivating eyes framed by long lashes.
llama owners claim that the animals are good therapy animals because they are particularly good with people, especially those who are sick or in need. Kuklenski said her llamas, can "read people." Kuklenski explained, "When her llama Flight goes into a setting where someone's animated and excited to see her, she'll put her head down for a hug." If someone seems nervous, "Flight will stand stock still. She is very cool," Kuklenski said. (4)
Mona Sams, an occupational therapist in Roanoke, Va., has eight llamas and five alpacas at her practice, which serves children with autism and adults with developmental disabilities. She is the lead author of a small clinical trial in which children with autism were given either standard occupational therapy or therapy that involved handling llamas. The study "indicated that the children engaged in significantly greater use of language and social interaction in the occupational therapy sessions incorporating animals than in the standard occupational therapy sessions." (4)
However, Hal Herzog, an anthrozoologist and psychology professor, remains skeptical about long-term effects. While acknowledging short-term benefits, he doesn't quite label it as "therapy." Herzog's research indicates mixed results, but as an animal lover, he wanted to believe in it too. In the world of llama therapy, the verdict might be up in the air, but the fluffy antics certainly add a touch of joy to the journey!
No matter, enjoy the pics and use the links below to see videos of Llama Costume Contests.
Epilog
Hubby started binge-watching Across Indiana – he was still watching programs this morning.
The only time I went to the Indiana State Fair in 1964
Other Indiana features not to miss:
Hoosier pie trail, Indianafoodways.com. 33 locations in Indiana featuring all kinds of Pie. You might even get a Sugar Cream Pie is often referred to as Indiana's State Pie.
Indy's Teeny Statue of Liberty Museum features over 650 Ladies of Liberty. From dolls and miniature statues, to beverages and specialty items.
References
Jennifer A. Kingson, The Llama as Therapist, New York Times, November 14, 2019
The Rise of Llama Therapy, advisory.com. January 13, 2020
Jennifer A. Kingson, The Llama as Therapist, New York Times, November 14, 2019
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