WOOL production carries a heavy burden of cruelty that often goes unnoticed by animal-loving consumers. One of the most distressing practices is mulesing, where large sections of flesh are painfully cut from a sheep’s backside without any pain relief. Similarly, castration without anesthesia is commonplace, and sheep frequently suffer injuries from rushed and careless shearing. Heavy-handed handling and rough treatment are far too common in the industry, hidden behind the scenes of “natural” wool products.
In an effort to boost wool yields, some farms resort to winter shearing. After being stripped of their protective coats, the sheep are left vulnerable to the cold, and many tragically die from exposure. This added shearing during the harshest season shows a clear disregard for the animals’ welfare.
Another widespread yet cruel practice is sheep dipping. The animals are forced into troughs filled with harsh chemical mixtures of pesticides and fungicides. In more extreme cases, sheep are herded into metal cages and fully submerged in tanks of chemicals for extended periods. This leaves them terrified and struggling as they’re held underwater with no escape.
The cruelty involved in wool production is often hidden from view, but the reality is far from humane. By choosing cruelty-free alternatives, you’re taking a stand against these inhumane practices and opting for a truly compassionate lifestyle.