Why should we shear sheep?
Shear Sheep for the Productivity of the Animal
Shearing is generally carried out in the spring, so sheep don't become overheated in the summer.
A long fleece is likely to become dirty and drag along the ground, increasing the possibility of flystrike.
A bulky fleece decreases the mobility of sheep.
In HOT weather, sheep with too much wool are extremely susceptible to heat stress!!
Shearing keeps stained wool and mud-contaminated wool separate from new fleece growth.
Preparation for Shearing
Don't use any non-approved non-scourable marking crayons or color sprays in the weeks leading to shearing.
Don't use any insecticide chemical on the fleece for 6 weeks before shearing.
Remove all collars from pet sheep.
Remove any foreign material from the fleece (leaves, pieces of wire, hayseeds, etc.)
Warn shearers of any ear tags.
The Act of Shearing, and there after
Shearing can be stressful for sheep.
Shearing requires skill to shorn efficiently and quickly, without causing harm to sheep or shearer.
Try not to feed sheep the night before shearing so their stomachs are empty making it more comfortable for them while being shorn.
Because newly shorn sheep become colder faster, place them in paddocks with windbreaks and plenty of pasture.
The best time to apply louse and flystrike prevention treatments is right after shearing.
Providing sheep with coats or covers are a good option on small farms when the weather is cold or wet.
