Animal Welfare

Raising the Bar on Animal Care

Sheep welfare is fundamental to responsible wool production, with ranchers working closely with veterinarians, extension specialists, and research institutions to provide scientifically-based, best-practice care for their animals. This collaborative approach aligns with the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, as outlined by the World Organization for Animal Health, which ensures sheep have:

1. Access to nutritious food and clean water
2. A comfortable and appropriate environmentGenerations of Care
3. Good health, including disease prevention and treatment
4. The ability to express natural behaviors
5. Freedom from pain, injury, and distress

To further support these efforts, the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) provides a range of resources and programs. The American Wool Assurance (AWA) certification, which promotes year-round care and aligns with the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, the ASI Sheep Care Guide provides guidance on nutrition, health, and humane handling, and the Sheep Safety and Quality Assurance (SQA) program that further ensures safe, high-quality wool through proactive management. These optional certifications highlight the industry’s dedication to ethical and sustainable practices.

Shearing for Health

Shearing is essential for keeping sheep healthy and comfortable. Sheep naturally grow wool continuously and without regular shearing, sheep risk overheating, restricted movement, and infections caused by overgrown fleece. Regular shearing reduces heat stress by up to 60%, ensuring comfort, especially in warmer months.

Professional shearers are trained to prioritize safety and minimize stress. Shearing improves mobility and prevents fleece weight from exceeding 10% of body weight, which could impair movement – healthy and mobile sheep graze more effectively helping manage vegetation and prevent overgrowth on the land.

Each sheared fleece yields a renewable, biodegradable fiber that’s part of a sustainable cycle. By shearing flocks at least once a year, ranchers maintain their sheep’s health while supporting responsible wool production.

Rancher’s Dedication

Wool ranchers dedicate themselves year-round to the care of their flocks, often working over 10 hours a day during peak seasons to ensure their animals and land thrive. Many families have honed their craft for multiple generations, with over 80% of U.S. sheep operations being family-owned. This dedication includes safeguarding flocks with livestock guardian dogs, which reduce predation, and maintaining flock health through vaccinations, tailored nutrition, and sustainable pasture management. Their commitment ensures the production of high-quality wool while supporting rural communities and preserving agricultural traditions.