A severely overgrown sheep has been rescued from an Auckland lifestyle block after being found carrying nearly 6kg of matted wool.
The ewe, dubbed Fiona in a nod to the world famous Shrek whose 27kg fleece once made global headlines, had been abandoned at the property for two years.
She was struggling under the weight of an overgrown fleece that was matted and caked with dirt, faeces, and insects.
SPCA inspector Amanda said the ewe was clearly uncomfortable and overheating when she arrived at the SPCA’s Māngere Centre.
Staff provided food, water, and shelter before full veterinary checks, which she passed with no major health concerns.
SPCA teams then arranged for a local shearer to remove the wool that had built up in the last two years.
Fiona had been carrying around 5.95kg of wool, more than a sheep should be allowed to grow.
“With it gone, Fiona perked up straight away, feeling lighter and ready for her new life,” SPCA staff said.
Once recovered, Fiona was nearly ready to be listed for adoption, but Amanda, who already owned an older sheep needing company, decided to adopt her, saying Fiona was now set for “the good life she deserves”.
