I wouldnt want to shear one even with chainmaille. Think of the worst set of inlaws in the world on a bad hair day and thats a Badgers good day
There was another thread I read here a couple days ago talking about this and someone had emailed the customer svc at one of the vendors. Long story short they went to China and no they are not sheared while alive. Although they do use the meat in some parts they are like vermin. A search should find the other thread. I'll look when I get home tonight.

Bob