Farm Animals

Sheep Dagging and Flystrike Prevention

Dagging (removing soiled wool) is a critical flystrike prevention measure. Understanding optimal timing and technique reduces welfare risk.

Key Facts

Dagginess (wool soiled with faeces) is the primary risk factor for flystrike
Regular dagging removes the substrate that attracts blowflies
Dagging is most critical in late spring and summer when fly populations peak
Timing dagging with preventive insecticide application maximises protection
Individual animals with persistent dagginess should be investigated for underlying cause

Welfare Considerations

Flystrike on dagged sheep causing wound myiasis is one of the most serious welfare conditions in sheep farming. Prevention through regular monitoring, dagging, and appropriate preventive treatment is far more humane than treating established flystrike. Identifying and treating the underlying cause of persistent dagginess reduces risk.

What You Can Do

Dag sheep regularly throughout the fly season and apply preventive products appropriately
Monitor flocks at least twice weekly during the high-risk period
Investigate chronic dagginess in individual animals for underlying disease