By: centraljersey.com
Some people are fortunate enough to be able to pursue something about which they are passionate. Terry Anderson is one of those people. Her passion is her alpacas.
She is very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about her herd, which she began 12 years ago with a female and her baby.
Rich and Terry Anderson live on 8 1/2 acres along Goat Hill Road. They own and operate the Chimney Hill Bed & Breakfast. Mr. Anderson travels a lot with his other jobs providing risk training and assessments for pharmaceutical companies and as an active real estate consultant for selling B&Bs.
Ms. Anderson keeps the home fires going, but they both share in decisions on herd management. They are both active in the community and strong supporters for nonprofit causes they believe in.
Ms. Anderson said that alpacas are originally from Peru, but they can be purchased now from Chile, Bolivia and Ecuador. About five years ago, Peru lost 80 percent of their herds due to severe weather. Alpacas are hardy, but severe freezing and heat are not healthy for them. Ms. Anderson said this is her least favorite time with the alpacas because they are so barn-bound and they need sunshine. Also the wet ground is not good for their feet. They need a dry environment. The biggest health problem in this area is the tick. Before a tick is a tick it is a worm that can get in the spine and cause paralysis.