Is Faux Fur Really Faux?

Sad Cat Faux Fur BlogThe Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is crying foul.  The organization's tests have revealed that much of the "faux fur" sold by many retailers is actually anything but synthetic.  Tests have proven that the material often comes from fur-bearing animals including dogs, cats, and raccoon dogs that were raised in deplorable conditions in China. 

You might ask yourself how this is possible.  It's simple, really.  Due to a loophole in the Federal Fur Products Labeling Act, one in seven fur coats are not labeled accurately as containing fur.

Clothing label Sean Jean went under fire recently for offering its Hooded Snorkel Jacket with "imitation rabbit fur collar" for sale on Macys.com.  A spectrometry test conducted by the HSUS determined that the fur came from a canine species known as a "raccoon dog".  Other retailers' furs failed the test which led the HSUS to urge Congress to make an amendment of the Dog and Cat Protection Act-which bans the sale of dog or cat fur in the United States-to include "raccoon dogs" that are tortured and killed regularly in China.

Fifty million animals worldwide are exploited for their coats.  The HSUS works hard to educate the public about fur-free, fashionable alternatives.  You can learn more about them by visiting http://www.furfree.hsus.org.

Stella McCartney, the daughter of Beatle Paul McCartney and the late Linda McCartney, is a fashion designer who refuses to use fur or leather in her clothing lines.  A lacto-ovo vegetarian who has worked with celebrities like Madonna and Liv Tyler, McCartney has been applauded worldwide for her cruelty-free designs. 

Activist Ashley Paige put herself through college by designing handmade knit bikinis and selling them to her friends.  In one year's time, her work was featured on the cover of eight nationally known magazines including the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.  Her designs have been scooped up by celebrities and featured in television shows.  She has authored a book and founded a non-profit organization named RuffHouZen Rescue which has helped thousands of animals.  She uses the press to her advantage by wearing animal friendly slogans on t-shirts and hosts weekly pet adoptions in her boutique-studio in Hollywood.

The fashion industry does not have to exploit sentient beings for profit.  You can do your part by educating those around you about the risks of "faux fur".  You can also launch a letter campaign and write retailers who willingly sell these items despite concerns from the public. 

Be conscientious and well-informed.  Know where products come from and what items are deemed "organic" and "cruelty-free" before purchasing them.  A little bit of preparation can go a long way in protecting our furry friends.  Sign a petition and get the word out about China's treatment of animals.  The greatest weapon against injustice that we have is our voice.