Sheep Welfare in Wool Production

Wool sheep have been bred to produce continuous fleeces that require regular shearing, creating welfare considerations around the shearing process and practices.

Key Facts

Sheep bred for wool cannot shed their fleece naturally and must be shorn annually or they develop welfare problems
Mulesing — surgical removal of skin around the tail to prevent flystrike — is practiced in Australia
The PETA 'Wool Investigation' series raised awareness of rough handling during shearing
Shearing takes 2-4 minutes per sheep by skilled shearers but involves physical restraint
Non-mulesed wool has growing market demand and several major brands have committed to sourcing it

Welfare Considerations

Wool production welfare centers on three main issues: the shearing process itself, which can cause stress and minor injuries; mulesing, which causes significant acute pain; and the selective breeding that makes continuous shearing necessary. Skilled, calm shearing minimizes stress. Mulesing has viable alternatives through better genetics and chemical alternatives that have been adopted by some producers. Consumer demand for mulesing-free wool is creating market incentives for alternatives.

What You Can Do

Choose certified non-mulesed wool products when available
Support brands that have committed to phasing out mulesed wool sourcing
Advocate for mulesing bans in Australian state legislation
Donate to organizations developing and promoting mulesing alternatives
Share information about wool welfare with fashion-conscious consumers