Staffordshire County Council's Trading Standards Animal Health Team is urging sheep keepers to ensure their animals are sheared as necessary this summer, reminding owners that failing to do so can result in serious animal welfare issues.
The appeal follows reports that some sheep keepers may be delaying or avoiding shearing due to concerns about Bluetongue Virus (BTV). Officers are keen to stress that there is no evidence that leaving wool on sheep provides protection against Bluetongue.
Bluetongue is a viral disease spread by biting midges and can have a serious impact on animal welfare and livestock businesses.
Staffordshire is currently experiencing high levels of Bluetongue virus activity, with a significant number of confirmed cases across the county.
However, authorities are warning that concerns about Bluetongue must not come at the expense of animal welfare.
Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
"We understand the concerns farmers have regarding Bluetongue and the very real impact the disease is having on livestock businesses across Staffordshire. However, there is a misconception circulating that not shearing sheep may somehow help protect them from Bluetongue. This is simply not the case.
"Animal welfare must always come first. Sheep must be managed appropriately to safeguard their welfare, and leaving animals with excessive wool can lead to overheating, mobility issues, poor body condition and unnecessary suffering, particularly during warmer weather.
"We are asking all sheep keepers to review their flocks and ensure animals are sheared when required."
Animal welfare laws put a duty of care on owners and keepers to ensure the needs of animals are met. Failure to prevent unnecessary suffering may lead to enforcement action where welfare is compromised.
Sheep keepers are encouraged to make shearing arrangements as early as possible and seek assistance from professional contractors, neighbouring farms or agricultural networks where needed.
Anyone concerned about the welfare of sheep or other livestock can contact the Animal Health Team for advice on 01785 277875.
