** AWARDS ISSUED PRIOR TO JANUARY 20, 2025, WERE FUNDED UNDER PREVIOUS ADMINISTRATIONS AND MAY NOT REFLECT THE PRIORITIES AND POLICIES OF THE CURRENT ADMINISTRATION.** IN THE SHEEP INDUSTRY, TAIL DOCKING, OR THE AMPUTATION OF THE TAIL, IS A COMMON PRACTICE USED TO PREVENT ILLNESS AND INJURY. WHILE BENEFICIAL IN IMPROVING REAR HYGIENE FOR THE ANIMALS FOR THE PREVENTION OF FLY-BORNE ILLNESS, THE MANUAL REMOVAL OF THE TAILS IS A PAINFUL PROCEDURE WITH THE POTENTIAL TO CAUSE OTHER HEALTH ISSUES LATER IN LIFE. THE GOAL OF THIS PROJECT IS TO PROVIDE AN ALTERNATIVE TO TAIL DOCKING FOR THE IMPROVEMENT OF ANIMAL WELFARE IN THIS PRODUCTION SYSTEM. TO ACHIEVE THIS, A GENETIC METHOD OF REDUCING TAIL LENGTH WILL BE DEVISED. THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS GENETIC DOCKING STRATEGY WILL BE APPLICABLE TO LONG-TAILED SHEEP BREEDS WORLDWIDE.

Washington State University, Pullman WA

Investigators