Ethics in business

I don't expect anything more from others -- than I expect from myself. Problem is: I expect near perfection from myself.

Point: You spend 25 years buying and selling llamas and alpacas. You disclose all pertinent information about them to potential buyers, both the good and the bad. "she's bad on lead; he's a spitter; she kicks; she's a great producer; he's parade ready. . ."

They call and e-mail -- asking pages of questions -- both specifically and generally -- about the animals. You respond politely and take LOTS of time helping to direct them.

THEN -- they send you photos and info about animals from another farm "what do you think about THIS girl?"

Then they drive 300 miles and buy from someone "going out of business" instead.

But do they call the "going out of business" owner with problems/questions about their animals? No. They call you, the one they didn't buy from.

Point: You send out a monthly newsletter at no small cost in time, energy and money. It is a great marketing tool and you showcase your animals for sale, rescues needing homes, etc.

Someone who gets your newsletter asks you to help sell their animals -- because, of course, you have none of your own to sell.

They choose to do none of the marketing. They don't take animals into the community, don't join organizations, don't send out flyers or newsletters, and don't have open farm days to get people onto the farm. Sometimes they don't even halter train them.

There's been a lot of that going around lately. Please remember to buy animals from the farms that HELP you with yours. Those that let you borrow a trailer; help you find the best deals on hay and feed; offer a halter and lead with every purchase; answer your e-mails over and over.

It's the courteous thing to do.