Farm Animals

Sheep Wool Production and Mulesing

Wool production involves husbandry procedures including shearing, mulesing, and tail docking that have significant welfare implications for sheep globally.

Key Facts

Mulesing is a surgical procedure removing skin from around the hindquarters to prevent flystrike
It is widely practiced in Australia but banned in New Zealand
Shearing without adequate pain management can cause wounds and distress
Modern merino breeding is developing bare-breech genetics that eliminate the need for mulesing
ZQUE and RWS certification address wool production welfare standards

Welfare Considerations

Mulesing causes acute pain and prolonged wound discomfort. Pain relief provision during mulesing is inconsistent. Breeding for bare-breech genetics offers the welfare-optimal solution by eliminating the procedure. UK wool production does not involve mulesing, but shearing welfare still depends on shearer skill and sheep handling. Responsible wool sourcing considers both production practices and breed welfare.

What You Can Do

Choose wool certified under Responsible Wool Standard or ZQUE
Prefer non-mulesed wool products where certified options are available
Support breeding programmes developing bare-breech merino genetics
Ask wool brands about their sourcing and mulesing policies
Support research into humane flystrike prevention alternatives to mulesing