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  4. RSPCA ACT Rescues Sheep with World’s…

‘Chris the Sheep’, as dubbed by local bush walkers, was rescued by the RSPCA ACT on 2nd September 2015 after concerns were raised regarding the animal’s welfare. The unusually large stray sheep in serious need of a haircut was sighted by members of the public in the area of Mulligans Flat towards the Australian Capital Territory border.

Under the leadership of RSPCA ACT Senior Inspector Catherine Croatto, five RSPCA ACT staff members and a knowledgeable local were needed to find and rescue the sheep. He was then transported to the Weston shelter where he received expert veterinary treatment.

On closer inspection, RSPCA ACT vets concluded that Chris would need to be sheared immediately in order to ensure he was not injured or carrying infection. Furthermore, the weight of the wool made it very difficult for him to stand and walk.

RSPCA ACT was inundated with calls from local shearers happy to help. In the end Ian Elkins was chosen, and he sheared the massive fleece early Thursday morning. The health and welfare of Chris was the main priority as it was unsure whether he would survive through the ordeal.

Under the guidance of RSPCA ACT veterinarians, the shearing was completed after 42 minutes with the fleece weighing in at 40.45kg, unofficially beating the world record held by New Zealand sheep, Big Ben.

RSPCA ACT veterinarians are now monitoring the health of Chris and will be regularly updating the public on his recovery. Chief Executive Officer, Tammy Ven Dange thanked the public for their interest and support: “On behalf of all the staff and volunteers at RSPCA ACT in Australia, thank you for caring about Chris and the work we do here.”

RSPCA ACT is yet to decide on the fate of the world-class wool.

To make donations towards the hard work RSPCA ACT undertakes to ensure the health and welfare of animals please visit our ‘Chris the Sheep’ supporter page: https://www.thankq.net.au/donate/V270/Donate1.aspx?ref=4876565676083828&...

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