Figure 46.2 The digits are splayed contributing to stability and traction.

Figure 46.3 The foot pad, or slipper, covers the weight-bearing surface. The toenail contributes to traction but not weight bearing.

Figure 46.4 The foot pads of each digit are connected at the heel region of the foot.

Figure 46.5 The non-weight-bearing toenail may overgrow causing distortion of the P3.

Ambulation

Llamas and alpacas have several gaits including the walk, pace, trot, and gallop. Juvenile camelids have an unusual hopping gait that may be described as “prancing” or “pronging.” Although not always present, the pacing gait can be recognized by both limbs on one side (ipsilateral fore and hind limbs) swinging in unison rather than a forelimb on one side swinging with the contralateral hind limb as is seen with the typical quadruped gaits (Figure 46.6).

Figure 46.6 Some camelids walk with a pacing gait, but many walk with a diagonal gait.

Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel

Join