Does shearing hurt the goats?

Goats live freely in pastures for months at a time. About a month before shearing, ranchers begin slowly herding them towards barns. When the day comes, the clipping process is performed by a trained professional and it only takes a few minutes. Any nicks are usually minor. Check out this video to learn more about the relationship between the goat ranchers and the Angoras. https://mohairusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/American-Mohair_Sustainability-Starts-Here_Subs.mp4

How has technology changed the industry?

Angora goat ranches may track precipitation with radar. Or use drones to watch herds range across large ranches. But most of the final shearing and bundling is still done by skilled craftsmen.

Why are so many farms multigenerational?

Mohair producers are in demand. Growing up on a ranch gives families a chance to teach their kids a trade that can lead to a good job when they become an adult. Read more about American Mohair producers here.

Buy Responsibly - Mohair USA

Feel Good About Buying Something That Feels Great

American Mohair Is Ethical and Sustainable

The 4 Dimensions Of Sustainability

Multigenerational

Small businesses with time-tested traditions.

Intermediate grazing

Angora goats live in harmony with native flora.

Animal welfare

Cruelty-free from shepherd to shear.

Biodegradable

Longer wearing with less waste.

American Mohair Assurance Program

Our Pledge To Our Goats. And You.

Since 1890, America’s Angora goat ranchers have held themselves to the highest standards. And in 2020, we put those promises on paper. When you see the American Mohair Assurance seal, you know the goats were raised with respect and sheared with care.

The pledge covers dozens of values, actions and practices. Grazing land. Transportation safety. Predator protection. Ample nutrition. Illness prevention. And of course, strict standards for the shearing process. They all add up to happy goats and an industry you can be proud to support.

Read The Pledge

The Five Freedoms Of Animal Welfare

Mohair Ranchers are Committed To Letting Goats Be Goats

Part of our AMA commitment is abiding by the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, which are recognized by businesses, humane societies, veterinarians and ranchers all over the world.

01
Freedom from Thirst and Hunger:
Consistent access to safe water and a healthy diet.
02
Freedom from Discomfort:
An environment that includes shelter and safe spaces to rest.
03
Freedom from Pain, Injury and Disease:
Prevention when possible, rapid treatment when necessary.
04
Freedom from Fear and Distress:
Conditions that minimize suffering and predation.
05
Freedom to Express Normal Behavior:
Space to play and access to their own kind.