Sheep (England): Code of Recommendations for the Welfare of Livestock (PB5162)
Management: Tail Docking
- Farmers and shepherds should consider carefully whether tail docking within a particular flock is necessary; Tail docking may be carried out only if failure to do so would lead to subsequent welfare problems because of dirty tails and potential fly strike. If it is considered that both tail docking and castration are necessary, thought should be given to performing both operations at the one time of handling, so as to minimise disruption and the potential for mis-mothering and distress.
- Tail docking must be carried out only in strict accordance with the law (see text below and that following paragraph 61). The procedure should be performed by a competent, trained operator.