[alpineguy]

Things that have not been talked about in this thread yet
1. Training (free or cheap llamas won't be pack trained and if they are and are still cheap or free stay clear.
2. Handling animals, whatever species, requires training as well. They are not machines that can just be turned on and off at the owners desire. Unless experienced with the species you choose, training will cost. Additionally most trained animals require maintenance which requires time and often money.
3. Any animal can spook. Demonstration videos are usually performed with trained and well behaved animals. The handlers are generally experienced as well. If your just getting into packing animals whether it be horses, mules, donkeys, llamas or camels, beware things can go sideways in a big hurry in the backcountry leaving the animal, the handler or both badly injured.
4. Cost of equipment. Make sure you have researched how much GOOD equipment costs and factor that into the equation. Cheap equipment usually will give you troubles on the trail and can injure your pack animal or just leave you stranded.
5. I know from owning horses, many of them will pack game......but some just can't handle the smell and are almost impossible to deal in that situation so once again.....know what you have (animal's personality) before thinking it will pack your elk, moose, deer or whatever.
Reading through this thread concerns me somewhat as there is so much involved with packing animals in the backcountry..........it's not like the pasture at the acreage!!!
Complete research including trialing (under supervision) the species of choice is required. If you decide to take the plunge.....Good Luck and Happy Hunting!!