A sheep found in life-threatening shape got a makeover that saved his life.
Alex was saved by a kind-hearted bushwalker who spotted him in the wilds of Australia, where the animal had survived for several years.
The poor sheep was burdened by 88 pounds of extra wool and could hardly move.
Thankfully, the wonderful people at Edgar’s Mission Farm Sanctuary came to his rescue.
Alex is the breed of sheep whose fleece continues to grow and, unfortunately for Alex, his fleece had not been shorn for many years.
Edgar’s Mission Farm Sanctuary explains, “Did you know that sheep, like Alex, require at least annual shearing for their welfare? This is a direct result of human selective breeding for wool that is harvested for commercial purposes and speaks to how we have altered their lives.”
“The wild mouflon of Europe and Asia, from whom they are descended, was a coarse-haired animal with a downy undercoat,” they continue. “This body covering responded to the seasons, growing dense and providing protection in the cooler months, only to then be shed in the summer months.”
In Edgar’s case, he was so weighed down by his extra wool that he could not support his weight. It didn’t help that his fleece was coated with urine, insects and brambles and he was suffering from dehydration.
But once he’s freed from his wool, his rescuers help him to stand up and walk. Now a year on, Alex is enjoying life at the sanctuary.
Edgar’s Mission Farm Sanctuary recently celebrated their 20th year anniversary. Consider supporting their rescue efforts so they can keep doing their wonderful work.
