Producers care about their animals. Stories of shepherds go back to Biblical times and continue throughout history. Producers are committed to humane husbandry practices that provide a healthy, comfortable existence for their animals and result in the most wholesome, natural products possible.

Production management decisions are made with the health and welfare of the animal in mind.

Almost all lambs have their tails removed at an early age. The procedure is simple and the benefits are substantial in terms of cleanliness and hygiene. Most lambs also receive an ear tag with a number on it. The process is much like having an ear pierced, and gives producers the ability to keep accurate health and production records on an individual animal.

Producers make provisions for the health of their ewes during lambing. Where possible, producers spend day and night with their sheep during lambing, assisting when needed and helping the lambs get a good start.

Special facilities are necessary for handling sheep in order to minimize stress and the possibility of injury. Producers make sure the facilities allow easy access to water and feed. Barns are kept clean and have good ventilation.

When sheep are transported, producers load just the right number of animals. Putting too many or too few animals on a truck can result in injuries to the animals.

The nutritional needs of sheep are most often met through grazing. The industry has adopted nutritional guidelines for the animals’ needs appropriate to each stage of life.

The industry also promotes quality assurance guidelines on the proper use of all health care products.