Pizzle dropping

Policy

Pizzle dropping in sheep should not be undertaken until there is scientific evidence to demonstrate a reduced incidence of posthitis and fly strike.

Background

Pizzle dropping is a surgical procedure performed on wether lambs and weaners (under 12 months of age).

The skin between the prepuce and the abdomen is severed to allow the prepuce to hang below the wool on the belly region.

Some important points to note are:

• The procedure is undertaken to reduce wool wetting and the incidence of pizzle rot (balanoposthitis — inflammation of the prepuce and penis of castrated sheep).
• Pizzle rot and wet wool predispose sheep to fly strike.
• Welfare risks associated with the procedure include pain and the risk of surgical damage if the procedure is performed incorrectly.
• No evidence based trials have provided valid data to support the procedure.
• Anecdotal reports only to justify the procedure on a production basis in terms of reduced staining of belly wool.

Other relevant policies and position statements

• Surgical alteration to the natural state of animals

Date of ratification by AVA Board 27 July 2012