Sheep Welfare During Wool Shearing

Shearing is an annual welfare event for most commercial sheep breeds, with the quality of the experience varying enormously depending on shearer skill, handling facilities, and management.

Key Facts

Professional shearers can shear 200-400 sheep per day, raising welfare questions about individual attention
Rough handling during shearing causes stress, cuts, and musculoskeletal injuries
Merino sheep and other wool breeds require shearing for health reasons
Shedding sheep breeds such as Soay do not require shearing
Animal welfare organisations have documented routine rough handling in shearing operations globally

Welfare Considerations

Shearing welfare depends primarily on shearer skill and attitude. Skilled, calm shearers complete the task quickly with minimal injury and distress. Rough or inexperienced shearing causes lacerations, bruising, and prolonged restraint in uncomfortable positions. Catching and penning prior to shearing is also a stress event requiring calm, low-pressure handling. Farmers who contract shearing should evaluate contractors on welfare grounds, and contracts should specify standards for injury rates and handling quality.

What You Can Do

Support wool products from producers who demonstrate shearer welfare standards
Ask wool producers about the welfare credentials of contracted shearers
Support the development of shearing welfare assessment frameworks
Consider that wool from mulesed sheep carries additional welfare concerns in Australia