Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Wool Production Welfare Advanced

The welfare implications of wool production extend beyond shearing to breeding decisions, mulesing, and the growing market for welfare-certified wool.

Key Facts

Shearing is necessary for most wool breeds; it becomes welfare-critical if performed unskilfully
Mulesing - surgical removal of breech skin - is still common in Australia to prevent flystrike
Non-mulesed and NWAP-approved alternatives are growing in market share
Wool certification schemes including ZQ and Responsible Wool Standard cover animal welfare
Some campaigns advocate for an end to wool consumption; welfare-certified wool may be preferable to some alternatives

Welfare Considerations

Wool production welfare depends on breeding choices, shearing skill and frequency, and pain management for all procedures; well-managed wool systems can meet high welfare standards.

What You Can Do

Choose wool products from Responsible Wool Standard or ZQ-certified producers
Avoid products from mulesed sheep where alternatives are available
Support development and adoption of mulesing alternatives