Just like any other farm, the shearing day must be an important day on your farm. Usually, it happens once a year in most places; however, it can happen more than once based on the wool type. During summer, shearers clip off the wool because sheep do not need it to stay warm. When the wool remains unclipped, it can cause bacteria due to the moisture trapped against the skin.
We can unanimously say that shearing is good for sheep. Furthermore, it could be cruel to not shear a sheep. So, if you want to get more insights on how your sheep can benefit from shearing, let’s take a look below!
Shearing is Beneficial for Sheep
Did you know that it is illegal to not shear in many countries? Though shearing is a stressful activity for the sheep, it minimises long-term stress for them. It is a humane process that assures the overall well-being of the animals. When shearers do not shear in the late spring, the flock might have to carry a heavy coat of wool. Think of it this way — would you like to wear a winter coat in summer?
Shearing for their Hygiene
Some breeds produce heavy wool ranging from 6-7 kilos in a year. Carrying the heavy wool is a serious concern; however, things can take a fatal turn when the wool is not removed. The wool can get dirty and trap undesirable particles. Then the sheep may become the breeding ground for bacteria and put their health in danger.
Some farmers shear sheep before the birth of their lamb. This practice lowers the risk of bad bacteria growth and prevents illness among newborn lambs.
Practice Shearing At Least Once a Year
Remember, shearing does not physically hurt the sheep. You only need to remove the top layer which basically has dead cells. As mentioned earlier, shearing takes care of sheep’s hygiene. In addition, excess amounts of wool can disrupt the mobility of the sheep. The wool’s weight may hinder its visibility. Moreover, urine and feces may get trapped in the wool.
Conclusion
Do you remember the Baraack Sheep? The sheep was found with 35 kilos of fleece. Therefore, you can guess why shearing for at least a year is a good idea. Many farmers consider shearing twice a year, too.
Shearing requires a lot of attention because of the daunting process. Most importantly, you need to have the right tools to ace shearing. Visit shearquantity.com for the latest tools!
If you are a newbie and want to learn the best-kept secrets of successful shearing, you can get in touch with us. Leave a comment below now!
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