The welfare of sheep: Review

Abstract

The welfare of livestock production is a recurring theme. Ease of access to information on the production methods of species farmed to provide food to human make concern about animals is relevant to the acceptance of such products by consumers and its subsequent acquisition. In addition to the growing demands of consumers, it is known that animals with good welfare state have better health, productivity and provide high quality products. By these means, it is clear that producers must satisfy the animals' needs, making the products acceptable to consumers and increasing the system's profitability. In spite of the sheep have been one of the first species domesticated by humans, in Brazil are still not available recommendations or specific legislation for improving the welfare of this species. This literature review aims to expose the main concepts and recommendations for the welfare of sheep. These recommendations are based on various scientific researches for the welfare of sheep and provide subsidies for the development of handling techniques to improve the quality of life of the animals.