Myths About Real Fur: Separating Fact From Fiction in the Fur Industry

When you’re interested in buying a fur coat, there may be rumors or buzz out there that might dissuade you from making a purchase. But stay alert. Much of this information is false or has been sensationalized. It’s time to learn the truth about real fur.

According to the Fur Commission USA, the fur trade only “accounts about one-quarter of one percent of the animals we use for food, clothing and other purposes each year.”

In America and worldwide, many people use animals for a variety of purposes such for food, clothing, and valuable medical research.

Since animals are such an important part of our daily lives, animal welfare is treated with the utmost importance. The fur industry takes pride in our products. All possible efforts are taken to maintain the highest level of care and stop unnecessary suffering.

Here are some of the biggest misconceptions about real fur:

Fiction – Animals are skinned alive for their fur

FACT: In North America, Europe, and many other fur producing regions, it is illegal to cause undue suffering to an animal. Not only is it illegal, it is extremely inhumane and fur farms are appalled at this circulating myth. This rumor originated in part due to a questionable video released in 2005 showing a raccoon skinned alive somewhere in rural China. When Chinese officials tried to bring the perpetrators to court, the video’s releasers refused to corporate.

Furthermore, closer inspection of that video revealed the participants were receiving coaching from behind the camera, casting serious doubt on the authenticity of the video.

Fiction – The fur trade is unregulated

FACT: Like other animal operations, the fur industry is regulated by local, national, and international laws. This includes animal welfare to environmental issues. As with cows or chickens raised on other farms, fur farmers work with accredited veterinarians and animal specialists to provide the highest level of care. Global organizations like the International Fur Federation champion responsible fur production.

Another fictional belief is that animals are trapped and left to suffer alone. There are set standards for nutrition, housing, care, and humane harvesting.

In the U.S, the regulations for mink farming are managed by Fur Commission USA and the US Fox Shippers Council monitors fox farming.

Fiction: Fake fur is better for the environment

FACT: Fur has several environmental advantages. Real fur is a natural, renewable resource. Fake fur is made from chemicals and man-made products to try and mimic the feeling of real fur. Also, farmed fur animals eat leftover food from waste products that would otherwise be thrown away.

Many remote or indigenous groups rely on selling their wild fur, from which the entire animal is used for food, clothing, and other materials. It can also be passed down from generation to generation as well restyled into new fashions.

Fiction: Only celebrities and the extremely wealthy buy furs

FACT: Fur is becoming a practical, trendy way to stay warm. They fight the cold like no other. When winters are colder, fur sales increase. This indicates a sensible desire to stay warm during the bitter cold of winter.

Fur is coming back in new and exciting ways. New technology means warmer furs with less bulk. Fur-trimmed coats and jackets along with fur accessories make fur an attractive choice for all audiences.

When deciding to buy a fur coat, there are many options to consider. But fur myths shouldn’t be one of them. Stay educated on real fur facts.