Photos by Cathy Benson | The Botetourt View

Mona Sams and her baby llama.

Lunch is served at Mona's Ark.

This sweet alpaca lives at Mona's Ark.

A curious alpaca.

Mona Sams is an occupational therapist who uses pet therapy in her job. She has a dozen llamas and alpacas at her Troutville mini farm, and the furry creatures will star in a fundraising event to allow more folks to receive occupational therapy.

"The funds will be used for children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism and degenerative diseases to receive their occupational therapy with animals, which is not covered by most insurance," she said. On that Saturday the participants will try cart driving and a llama walk.

"Hug a llama!" Sams said.

The creature is incredibly soft. Sams shears the animals and uses the wool for crafts she does with her patients. They are very friendly and gentle animals. She also has some dogs, rabbits, goats and ducks in her entourage of animals.

The event will be held near the Pepsi Plant in Hollins at Tinker Mountain Crafts beside of what is known as Creekside Market. The address is 8227 Williamson Road right at the Botetourt County line.

Llama Fest

• Saturday, Oct. 4

• 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• 8227 Williamson Road (at the Botetourt County line)

• Rain date is set for Oct. 11

Event will feature:

• Llamas on display

• Bake sale

• Crafts from Llama wool

• Walk a llama

• Silent auction

• Raffle items