Animal Welfare Policy

For Topsy Farms, animal care is our top priority. This is part of our foundational philosophy: the sheep flock, the guardian dogs, the highland cows, the wildlife (birds, deer, monarch butterflies, and even coyotes). We, like other Ontario sheep farmers, are committed to providing the best animal care possible. Our shepherds adhere to the National Farm Animal Care Council’s Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Sheep. Everyone who works at Topsy farms is required to follow both biosecurity protocols and good animal handling practices in accordance with industry guidelines. These animals are trusted to our care and we take this sacred responsibility very seriously. 

We practice the Five Freedoms of animal welfare. These are
1. Freedom from hunger and thirst - by providing ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain health and vigour.
2. Freedom from discomfort - by providing an appropriate environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
3. Freedom from pain, injury, or disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4. Freedom to express normal behaviour - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal’s own kind.
5. Freedom from fear and distress - by ensuring conditions and treatment which avoid mental suffering.