The Pack Llama Trial Association, Inc., (PLTA) is incorporated as a non profit corporation and was created in 1998 as a successor to the WILA Pack Performance Llama Trials that were first held in 1995. This was the beginning of the concept of testing pack llamas against a written packing standard. The PLTA continues to test and recognize the pack llama and to maintain computerized records of those
llamas and their working accomplishments. The principle purpose of the PLTA is to preserve and promote pack llamas by educating the public in the safe and humane use of llamas as packing companions. This is done by coming together in a social, non-competitive atmosphere and testing the pack llama against a written standard in a realistic packing environment. The PLTA's objective in promoting this concept is to discover and recognize llamas that can fulfill the llama packers' needs on the trail by performing in a manner consistent with the demands of actual packing conditions. The intent is not to confront the llama with unrealistic or trick problems, but rather to test the llama's natural ability and acquired training. PLTA tests utilize natural and man made obstacles in a manner found in normal packing conditions. While realistic packing conditions are subject to variations in different parts of the country, pack llamas are expected to possess a defined set of abilities which enable them to serve as useful packing companions. The standard is divided into four levels based on ability and expectations. The Basic is for young llamas or owners with minimal packing requirements. The Advanced is for llamas that have more training and owners that have moderate packing requirements. The Master level is for the well trained llama and owners that have serious packing requirements. A new level, Extreme, has been added to showcase the true athletes of the llama world. The written standard provided by the PLTA is one way that owners can assess the packing requirements and abilities of their llamas. Pack trials motivate and encourage new owners to work with their llamas in a fun and realistic environment where they can enjoy socializing while learning from other llama owners and packers.
