1. Purpose: To provide an efficient, inclusive system of coordinating lama rescue efforts nationwide in order to share and maximize the use of resources while providing a safety net for llamas and alpacas in need of intervention or rescue. Though intervention and rescue efforts will of necessity remain primarily local or regional, there are many areas where networking and sharing can eliminate duplication of efforts and provide valuable information and ideas.
2. The IRC Council is intended to be a forum within the camelid community for discussion of the rescue issue. It is not intended to be a governing body, nor is it intended to interfere with or direct local rescue efforts. In general, members of the IRC Council represent various llama and alpaca organizations or entities and serve as liaisons to those groups. Currently discussions are held in a private chat room, and there is no cost to any organization or individual.
3. The council plans to:
A. Identify groups and individuals that can be part of this nationwide network, maintaining current contact information along with type of assistance willing to provide (transportation, shearing, foster home, adoptive home, etc.).
B. Use network contact information for referral in intervention and rescue situations as needed.
C. Help provide and facilitate educational opportunities and resources, working to prevent the need for rescue by trying to ensure that caretakers have access to appropriate camelid care and handling information.
D. Write articles and news releases for distribution to camelid newsletters and publications, as well as to general agricultural and mainstream outlets.
E. Provide appropriate information, including Minimum Standards of Care for Llamas & Alpacas, to humane societies and animal control authorities as needed.
F. Enlist the help of established llama and alpaca organizations with nationwide lama intervention and rescue efforts.
G. Discuss potential fund raising efforts for camelid intervention and rescue efforts.
H. Provide representation at the annual Camelid Community gathering, keeping nationwide intervention and rescue efforts and concerns in the national dialogue.