Even though it is only March the planning is underway for our next alpaca show Alpacamania 2008.
This year we are adding some pretty strong clauses to our vet check. Not really because of a serious problem but because of one incident last year. So the words have been drafted and as of yesterday AOBA has approved them. Firm but fair is my view.

AlpacaMania 2008 Vet Check
Compliance with the minimum veterinary standards as set forth in the current AOBA Show Rules does not guarantee entry to the show. While SOJAA will make their best efforts to ensure that animals entering the show are healthy and free from infectious disease, SOJAA accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for animals that become infected while attending the show.
Before the show
If prior to the show a suspected medical condition is brought to the attention of the show organizers (SOJAA) , then following consultation with the appointed show veterinarian SOJAA may request additional medical testing as a condition of entry to the show. All costs associated with such testing will be borne by the exhibitor.
Arriving at the show
If following examination by the show veterinarian an animal presents a health risk in the opinion of the show veterinarian, then the show organizers (SOJAA) reserve the right to refuse entry of that animal into the show. Where appropriate all animals in the trailer containing the suspect animal may also be refused entry into the show.
During the show
If an exhibitor enters animals into the show knowing them to be infected or to have been exposed to infection and fails to disclose this information then the show organizers (SOJAA) reserve the right to ban that exhibitor from all future shows organized by SOJAA.
If during the course of the show an animal displays signs of illness or infection ,this must be brought to the attention of the show organizers or the show veterinarian immediately. Every effort will be made to care for the animal. Where appropriate the exhibitor will be asked to quarantine the animal or remove it from the show grounds.
After the show
If after leaving the show animals display signs of infection or illness SOJAA would appreciate it if exhibitors would contact the show organizers (SOJAA).