Reinhart said she has been interested in the animals since childhood.

“For as long as I can remember, I have had a love for llamas and alpacas and have always dreamed of having them,” she said.

That opportunity arrived in November 2024, when a family friend needed to re-home several animals. The Reinharts were preparing to move to the country at the time.

“I told my husband I would only get three and ended up coming home with five,” she said.

Carrie’s son, Jaxson Reinhart, holding Ruby on the family farm in May 2025. (Photo by Carrie Reinhart)

The original group consisted of four alpacas, Dorothy, Sophia, Blanche and Pearl, and one llama, Rose. Reinhart refers to them as “the golden girls.” Two days after arriving at their new home, one of the alpacas gave birth unexpectedly. The following spring brought two more babies, increasing the herd to eight.

The offspring were named Donald (Sophia’s baby), Benny (Blanche’s baby) and Ruby (Pearl’s baby).

The family recently lost Pearl, leaving seven animals on the farm.

Reinhart said daily care varies by season.

“During the winter, they need a constant supply of hay and water, and we feed them grain once a day. In extreme cold temperatures, we will blanket some of them,” she said. “During the warmer months, they graze in the pasture and don’t need as much grain.”

Donald the alpaca giving kisses to Carrie’s son, Jaxson, in May 2025. (Photo by Carrie Reinhart)

She also spends time walking with them and observing their behavior.

The animals have clear preferences and distinct personalities.

“They like apple chunks, carrots and cobs of sweet corn. Donald and Rose give kisses. They all love being sprayed with the water hose and sitting in little plastic pools of water during the summer,” Reinhart said.

Rose, nicknamed “Nosey Rosey,” is known for closely observing activity around the farm. Reinhart said the animals frequently watch family members while they work outdoors.

Some behaviors can be unpredictable.

The herd gathered in the snow this past December. (Photo by Carrie Reinhart)

“They will do a back-kick to the knee if they choose. Donald is the only one who has kicked us when he just feels like it,” she said. “They spit when they are threatened or upset. Rose and Blanche are notorious for spitting.”

Reinhart said the herd does not behave like traditional pets.

“They don’t listen, and everything is on their terms. Some like to be petted, and others don’t want to be touched,” she said.

She said caring for the animals requires consistent attention.

“I’m always worried if they are too cold, too hot, or ill, or if they need better shelter. It drives my husband crazy,” she said.

Friends and family frequently visit the farm to see the herd.

“They are pretty used to people, but they are also very timid,” Reinhart said. She plans to work with the younger animals this year to make them more comfortable around people and possibly halter train them.

Reinhart also documents the herd online, sharing videos and updates on TikTok under the name “Alpaca My Bags”.

“They all have unique personalities and make life interesting every day,” she said.