Sheep Welfare and Mulesing Reform

Mulesing — surgical removal of skin folds from merino sheep — is a welfare controversy driving reform in the wool industry.

Key Facts

Mulesing is performed without anesthetic on millions of merino sheep annually in Australia to prevent flystrike
Flystrike occurs when blowflies lay eggs in moist wool folds, causing maggots to feed on living tissue
Pain relief use during mulesing has increased following industry pressure but is not universally mandated
Breeding for fewer skin folds offers a long-term alternative to mulesing without welfare costs
Major fashion brands have pledged to phase out mulesed wool, driving industry change

Welfare Considerations

Mulesing causes acute pain and distress in sheep. The procedure involves cutting crescent-shaped pieces of skin from around the tail area without anesthesia in many operations. While it prevents the suffering of flystrike, it causes significant suffering itself. The industry faces pressure to transition to flystrike-resistant sheep breeds and improved husbandry practices as long-term solutions.

What You Can Do

Choose wool labeled non-mulesed or from certified humane wool programs
Support brands that have committed to sourcing only non-mulesed wool
Advocate for mandatory pain relief requirements during any surgical procedures on livestock
Support research into flystrike-resistant sheep genetics as an alternative to mulesing
Learn about the Responsible Wool Standard and what it does and does not cover