Farm Animals

Wool Production Welfare and Mulesing Reform

Wool production welfare varies dramatically between systems. Mulesing in Australian Merino sheep and rough shearing practices remain significant welfare concerns globally.

Key Facts

Mulesing removes skin folds from the breech to prevent fly strike in Australian Merino sheep
It is performed without anaesthetic and causes acute and chronic pain
New Zealand banned mulesing in 2018; Australia's industry has resisted a full ban
Selective breeding for plain-bodied sheep can reduce mulesing need over time

Welfare Considerations

Mulesing causes significant preventable pain. Non-mulesed wool certification and support for alternative fly strike prevention methods including targeted breeding programmes reduces this welfare harm. Consumers can directly influence this through purchasing choices.

What You Can Do

Choose wool certified to non-mulesing standards from New Zealand or responsible Australian producers
Support PETA and Humane Society campaigns for mulesing elimination
Ask woollen goods brands about their wool sourcing and mulesing policies