Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Dagging Welfare

Dagging (removing soiled wool around the breach area) is a routine welfare procedure that prevents flystrike and is best performed regularly.

Key Facts

Dag accumulation around the breach and tail creates ideal conditions for blowfly egg laying
Regular dagging during summer reduces flystrike risk significantly
Electric dagging equipment makes the task faster and more comfortable for both sheep and handler
Dagging should be performed gently with appropriate restraint to minimize stress
Dagged wool should be disposed of away from the flock to prevent fly breeding

Welfare Considerations

Dagging is an unglamorous but important welfare procedure that prevents the severe suffering of flystrike. Regular management through the summer fly season protects individual sheep from a condition that can be fatal within days.

What You Can Do

Support sheep farmers with regular dagging programs
Advocate for summer welfare management standards in sheep certification
Choose wool and lamb from farms demonstrating active flystrike prevention