The use of a new strategy to reduce pain during the tail docking of lambs

Lead Applicant: Tracy Burnett

Research Priority: Animal Health & Welfare

Program Type: Tier 1

Funding Cycle: 2024/2025

Research Centre: NA

Research Summary: Tail docking is a common practice performed on lambs across the world, which is carried out to reduce the build-up of faeces and urine in the wool of sheep and the subsequent risk of fly-strike (infestation of fly larvae in manure-laden wool). Although tail docking is common, all methods are painful and require pain mitigation. The most common method of tail docking is using a tight rubber elastrator band. Desensitization of the tail can be done through injectable local anesthesia (e.g. lidocaine), however, the practice is time-consuming for producers, leading to its avoidance. This study will investigate the use of a novel rubber tail docking band impregnated with lidocaine, and determine its efficacy in reducing pain, stress and inflammation in lambs. This project will give a practical solution to sheep producers during tail docking, while still providing lambs with the pain mitigation they require.