We recently rescued five sheep who had suffered years of severe neglect, going so long without shearing that it posed a serious health risk, particularly in the heat of summer. Like the majority of sheep, they had been selectively bred to produce far more wool than nature intended, making them dependent on humans for regular shearing. Yet, they’d been left to fend for themselves across hundreds of acres of bushland, with little human contact.
To bring them in safely, we set up a small pen near a dam where they often drank, and placed high-quality hay close by to gradually earn their trust. Even so, it took several attempts to contain them, as they were extremely wary of people. Once at the sanctuary, we gave each sheep a thorough vet check, carefully sheared their overgrown fleece (must have felt good), administered vaccinations, and provided nutrient-rich feed and supplements to support their recovery. Some had long-standing injuries—such as broken legs that had fused—they now receive proper pain management.
As a bonded group, they remain together in their own paddock, where they will live out the rest of their days free from harm and suffering.