Animal Welfare: Above and Beyond

At Sheep Inc., we believe in doing right by every being that plays a part in our journey. Our commitment to animal welfare is not just a pledge but a profound responsibility that we take to heart. It’s why all our farms adhere to the ZQ animal welfare standard, a benchmark that only the top 1% of farms worldwide can hope to achieve. But what does this standard entail?
ZQ Animal Welfare Standards:
Free from Thirst:
Free from Thirst:
Every ZQ sheep is nurtured in a way that allows them to forage freely, ensuring they’re well-fed and resilient against natural stresses like extreme weather. The result? Sheep that have consistent access to clean water and the right nutrition.
Every ZQ sheep is nurtured in a way that allows them to forage freely, ensuring they’re well-fed and resilient against natural stresses like extreme weather. The result? Sheep that have consistent access to clean water and the right nutrition.
Free to Live Naturally:
Free to Live Naturally:
Our sheep are free-range champions, roaming vast open pastures, typically with more than an acre of space each. But they’re social animals and prefer to explore with their mates. With the abundant land and minimal human intervention, they truly enjoy a natural life.
Our sheep are free-range champions, roaming vast open pastures, typically with more than an acre of space each. But they’re social animals and prefer to explore with their mates. With the abundant land and minimal human intervention, they truly enjoy a natural life.
Free from Discomfort:
Free from Discomfort:
Though sheep have naturally evolved to withstand a range of weather conditions, thanks to their woolly fleece, we believe in going the extra mile. ZQ growers ensure sheep are protected from any distress by providing ample shade and shelter at all times.
Though sheep have naturally evolved to withstand a range of weather conditions, thanks to their woolly fleece, we believe in going the extra mile. ZQ growers ensure sheep are protected from any distress by providing ample shade and shelter at all times.
Free from Distress:
Free from Distress:
Mulesing? Not on our watch. This painful procedure is strictly prohibited on ZQ farms. Every ZQ grower prioritises the sheep’s well-being, ensuring their handling is gentle, and facilities are top-notch, posing no risk of injury.
Mulesing? Not on our watch. This painful procedure is strictly prohibited on ZQ farms. Every ZQ grower prioritises the sheep’s well-being, ensuring their handling is gentle, and facilities are top-notch, posing no risk of injury.
Free from Disease:
Free from Disease:
With a lineage of stockmanship knowledge passed through generations, ZQ growers are adept at monitoring their flock. Regular checks are in place to swiftly diagnose and prevent any health issues, ensuring our sheep are healthy and thriving.
With a lineage of stockmanship knowledge passed through generations, ZQ growers are adept at monitoring their flock. Regular checks are in place to swiftly diagnose and prevent any health issues, ensuring our sheep are healthy and thriving.

At Sheep Inc., our commitment to the ZQ standards is not just about adhering to a checklist but about championing a culture of deep respect and care for our sheep. It’s this culture that ensures every piece of knitwear we offer is a testament to ethical and sustainable practices
Discover more
Caring for Merino
Caring for Merino
Why Transparency Matters
Why Transparency Matters
Regenerative Farming Unearthed
Regenerative Farming Unearthed
The Science Behind The Softness
The Science Behind The Softness