Fur Trade - a global profit corporation
In 1949, members of the fur trade formed the International Fur Trade Federation (IFTF), which brings together national associations from all parts of the world. With 42 member organisations in 35 countries, IFTF includes practically every important fur producing and consuming country.
It draws together people from across the full spectrum of the trade: farmers; trappers; auction houses; merchants; brokers; dressers and dyers; manufacturers; wholesalers; marketing organisations and retailers.
On joining IFTF, a national fur association or organisation becomes part of the worldwide fur trade community. Each member is entitled to appoint up to four national delegates to sit on the Council, which a grees Federation policy.
It draws together people from across the full spectrum of the trade: farmers; trappers; auction houses; merchants; brokers; dressers and dyers; manufacturers; wholesalers; marketing organisations and retailers.
On joining IFTF, a national fur association or organisation becomes part of the worldwide fur trade community. Each member is entitled to appoint up to four national delegates to sit on the Council, which a grees Federation policy.
Membership benefits include advice and guidelines on trade issues, news on scientific, political and welfare developments, fur fashion and trends and support for PR and political work. IFTF also organises regular seminars and workshops for members to share experiences and debate issues affecting the fur sector.
IFTF's sister organisation, the European Fur Federation (EFF), was established in 1991 to represent European members within IFTF.
IFTF's sister organisation, the European Fur Federation (EFF), was established in 1991 to represent European members within IFTF.
All industries that cause animal suffering in their business are always trying to show a commitment to eg endangered species - to beautify the grim business.
IFTF states the following:
- The IFTF is the only international body to represent the international fur trade. The IFTF has 42 national member associations and organisations in 35 countries.
- The IFTF promotes strict codes of practice that meet or exceed established and accepted standards for animal welfare, for wild and farmed fur. The fur trade does not trade in endangered species. The legitimate fur trade is a responsible industry.
- The IFTF supports and encourages the introduction of animal welfare legislation that is based on sound scientific research and other practical considerations, around the world.
The IFTF promotes the right of the legitimate fur trade to conduct its business without unreasonable barriers or discriminatory laws.
Approximately 85% of all fur sold comes from fur farms, and approximately 15-20% comes from abundant wild fur animal populations. In 2010, over 50 million fur pelts were produced by fur farms, mostly from Europe:
- 60% Europe
- 25% China
- 10% North America
- 5% Russia
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Fur Auctions - currency in fur and animal cruelty
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IFTF continue to convince themselves .....
The fur industry is a responsible industry. The IFTF and its members deplore cruelty to animals. The IFTF promotes strict codes of practice that meet or exceed established and accepted standards for animal welfare, for wild and farmed fur. The fur trade does not trade in endangered species.
All furs used by the fur trade are either farmed or are taken from abundant, sustainable populations in the wild. The IFTF and its members support independent scientific research into animal welfare in farming, trapping, population and habitat conservation. The IFTF encourages and supports animal welfare legislation that is based on sound, objective scientific research around the world.
The fur sector links together trapping and wild species management, fur farming and animal feed manufacturing, auction houses, wholesalers, dressing and dyeing, designing and hand crafting, retailers and consumers. The fur trade has responsibilities to the animals, the people working for the trade, the environment and the consumer. We take these responsibilities seriously - IFTF states the following:
All furs used by the fur trade are either farmed or are taken from abundant, sustainable populations in the wild. The IFTF and its members support independent scientific research into animal welfare in farming, trapping, population and habitat conservation. The IFTF encourages and supports animal welfare legislation that is based on sound, objective scientific research around the world.
The fur sector links together trapping and wild species management, fur farming and animal feed manufacturing, auction houses, wholesalers, dressing and dyeing, designing and hand crafting, retailers and consumers. The fur trade has responsibilities to the animals, the people working for the trade, the environment and the consumer. We take these responsibilities seriously - IFTF states the following:
IFTF claim that IFTF members activities - both farmed and wild-caught animals - dont harm animals and that animals do not suffer. This is a lie because IFTF can not verify that countries really follow regulations and laws or make sure that they are followed by people in this business - whether it be farmed animals or wild animals - some countries do not even have animal protection or welfare regulated by laws for fur animals - Fur Trade is ONLY a cruel profit business, where the currency is animal fur.
The IFTF calls upon governments around the world to ensure that legislation affecting the fur trade is based on:
- fair trade principles (WTO)
- objective, balanced, factual information
- good, sound science
- protecting the rights of individuals to conduct legitimate business in peace
- protecting the rights of individuals to freely choose to purchase legitimate fur products in peace
- the IFTF asks governments around the world to recognise and understand the difference between animal rights and animal welfare, and that animal rights groups have extreme views that are not representative of the majority of voters
- the IFTF calls on governments around the world to work with the fur trade on issues that affect the fur trade
- the IFTF is always available to provide governments with information and assistance in any way
IFTF - how it works
The fur trade is an exciting, complex and truly international trade sector. Its structure is unique, with fur adding value to many different sectors and national economies on the journey from its origins to the consumer.
The fur trade supports a remarkable range of cultures, traditional skills and lifestyles, while continually developing new techniques to meet the demands of the fashion world and today's consumer.
Today, more than 1 million people are employed full-time by the fur trade worldwide.
The fur trade is a responsible industry, highly regulated and committed to environmental conservation. No endangered species are used. Regulated? - all animals can feel pain.
The fur trade supports a remarkable range of cultures, traditional skills and lifestyles, while continually developing new techniques to meet the demands of the fashion world and today's consumer.
Today, more than 1 million people are employed full-time by the fur trade worldwide.
The fur trade is a responsible industry, highly regulated and committed to environmental conservation. No endangered species are used. Regulated? - all animals can feel pain.
Warning - Graphic # - HSUS investigators found that many garments containing animal fur are incorrectly advertised or labeled - sometimes even tagged as faux. Often the fur comes from raccoon dogs. The only way for a company to be sure they aren’t duping their customers is to stop selling animal fur.
Sale by auction - The majority of raw skins produced by fur farmers and trappers are sold through modern international auction houses, often located close to producing areas.
The farmers and trappers receive the price paid at auction, either direct or through local collectors, less a small commission for grading (sorting) and handling.
The world's largest auction houses are in Copenhagen, Helsinki, St Petersburg, Seattle and Toronto.
The farmers and trappers receive the price paid at auction, either direct or through local collectors, less a small commission for grading (sorting) and handling.
The world's largest auction houses are in Copenhagen, Helsinki, St Petersburg, Seattle and Toronto.
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The skins are sold in graded and assorted bundles or lots, which buyers have an opportunity to view samples of during the inspection period before the auction.
Buyers are predominantly brokers, buying on behalf of their furrier clients, or dealers or merchants whose companies sell finished skins to furriers or manufacturers around the world. The high value and volume of skins handled means that entrepot trade can have a high economic impact in countries which are not, in themselves, traditionally large markets for finished furs, for example, the United Kingdom. |
On sale: Copenhagen Fur (world wide):
Current sales programme - Sales reports Per month total offering February. 2014: Skins (number of killed animals): 7,106,925 (million sold per month) Lots: 29,671 - Show lots: 7,214 |
Fur Trade is ONLY a cruel profit business, where the currency is animal fur and skin.
Dressing and dyeing - From the auction houses, collectors or merchants, the skins are sent to dressing and dyeing companies. The dressing process covers cleaning, softening, preserving and drying the pelts.
Today, all fur types can be dyed to create vibrant fashion colours, from conventional dark to very light pastel shades. Furs can also be tip-dyed or blended to produce a more consistent colour. In addition to solid colour, new techniques mean that the opportunities to create patterns and special effects are endless.
The skins are then graded into colour, size, length of hair and texture before being sent to the manufacturer. The main international centres for dressing and processing the skins in this way are in the Baltic States, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy and Russia.
Today, all fur types can be dyed to create vibrant fashion colours, from conventional dark to very light pastel shades. Furs can also be tip-dyed or blended to produce a more consistent colour. In addition to solid colour, new techniques mean that the opportunities to create patterns and special effects are endless.
The skins are then graded into colour, size, length of hair and texture before being sent to the manufacturer. The main international centres for dressing and processing the skins in this way are in the Baltic States, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy and Russia.
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Manufacturing - Manufacturing of fur garments is a highly qualified profession, with many family-run businesses passing on traditional skills from generation to generation. The work requires meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail.
In some of the newer manufacturing markets, a wave of young people is joining the fur trade, learning these traditional skills as well as the latest technological developments. Yet even with new technology, manufacturing of fur pieces continues to be a predominantly manual task.
The manufacturing company or furrier may follow the patterns of its own in-house designer or may work with international design houses.
Today, fur can be worked in a range of different ways to make it lighter to wear, suiting the demands of a modern lifestyle. Some of the techniques used by furriers and manufacturers to lighten the garment are shearing, plucking, knitting, leathering and weaving.
The most important centres for manufacturing are Canada, China, Greece, Hong Kong and Russia. Other centres exist in France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Japan, Spain, Turkey, the Ukraine and the USA.
In some of the newer manufacturing markets, a wave of young people is joining the fur trade, learning these traditional skills as well as the latest technological developments. Yet even with new technology, manufacturing of fur pieces continues to be a predominantly manual task.
The manufacturing company or furrier may follow the patterns of its own in-house designer or may work with international design houses.
Today, fur can be worked in a range of different ways to make it lighter to wear, suiting the demands of a modern lifestyle. Some of the techniques used by furriers and manufacturers to lighten the garment are shearing, plucking, knitting, leathering and weaving.
The most important centres for manufacturing are Canada, China, Greece, Hong Kong and Russia. Other centres exist in France, Germany, Italy, Korea, Japan, Spain, Turkey, the Ukraine and the USA.
The Finals of the REMIX International Fur Design Competition 2012 which took place in Milan, Italy - Swedish Designer Alexander Krantz took home his Gold Medal for the International Design Award for his cream and champagne coloured blue fox creation. Assunta Iorio from Italy scooped both the Silver Medal and the OA special price with a chocolate-brown mink jacket and Lendrell Martin from the US was awarded Bronze for his alpine-green sheared mink coat.
Trade Fairs - Retailers from all over the world attend trade shows held each year in Beijing, Hong Kong, Istanbul, Kastoria, Madrid, Milan, Montreal and Moscow.
The shows allow even a small local furrier or fashion boutique to see the most up-to-date fur fashions and dyeing techniques and to buy the latest trends for the upcoming season.
Retail - Today, fur garments and accessories reach the final consumer via a wide range of retail outlets - specialised fur shops, international designer boutiques, department stores and fashion boutiques.
Demand for fur exists worldwide, but the largest consuming markets are China, Germany, Italy, Korea, Japan, Russia and many of the former Soviet Republics, Spain and the USA. In general, demand is driven by economic, fashion and climatic conditions.
The shows allow even a small local furrier or fashion boutique to see the most up-to-date fur fashions and dyeing techniques and to buy the latest trends for the upcoming season.
Retail - Today, fur garments and accessories reach the final consumer via a wide range of retail outlets - specialised fur shops, international designer boutiques, department stores and fashion boutiques.
Demand for fur exists worldwide, but the largest consuming markets are China, Germany, Italy, Korea, Japan, Russia and many of the former Soviet Republics, Spain and the USA. In general, demand is driven by economic, fashion and climatic conditions.
In recent years, fur has undergone a renaissance in the fashion world, with in excess of 400 leading international designers working with fur in their collections. In 2007/2008 international sales of fur garments reached a value of US$ 13 billion.
To help inform consumers about the fur they are buying, the International Fur Trade Federation introduced a labelling scheme for its European members, where all fur products sold to the consumer must carry a label stating the common name for the species in the local language and/or English together with the Latin scientific name.
To help inform consumers about the fur they are buying, the International Fur Trade Federation introduced a labelling scheme for its European members, where all fur products sold to the consumer must carry a label stating the common name for the species in the local language and/or English together with the Latin scientific name.
For the last eight years, all IFTF Members have been required to introduce a fur labelling scheme in their country, if this does not already exist. Following the introduction of the European labelling scheme, and the IFTF's ongoing commitment to openness, the IFTF and its industry partners launched the Origin Assured programme.
Since its introduction in 2006, the programme continues to be developed by the fur trade to inform customers that if they buy OA™ labelled fur, be it wild or farmed, it comes from countries which apply recognised legislation or standards in the ways animals are treated. Monitored for correct use by an independent international agency, the OA™ label is given only to items that are 100% Origin Assured fur.
Since its introduction in 2006, the programme continues to be developed by the fur trade to inform customers that if they buy OA™ labelled fur, be it wild or farmed, it comes from countries which apply recognised legislation or standards in the ways animals are treated. Monitored for correct use by an independent international agency, the OA™ label is given only to items that are 100% Origin Assured fur.
Lie after lie .....
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New European Textile Labelling Regulations - All products placed on the market after 08 May 2012 containing at least 80% textiles and less than 20% animal products (such as fur, leather or bone) must be labelled: 'contains non-textile parts of animal origin' in the language of the country where it is sold*.
This % is determined by weight. The label must be durable, easy to read, easy to find and securely attached. The authorities in your country will enforce the new law. The label is not needed if you are a self-employed tailor making customised garments for clients. |
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You may think it's not so bad - it's just a small piece of fur on the new jacket - but it is - every little bit fur - even fur on children's toys and pet toys - maintains this giant industry with tormented animals. Avoiding animal fur saves lives and reduces suffering.
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The hunters hunt in the forests - as fishermen fish in the oceans - blindly
Traps are indiscriminate, which means that any person or animal, young or old, can and do get caught in traps. The reported numbers are consistently disturbing. For example, the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that ‘non-target animals’ (or ‘trash’ animals as they are referred to by industry) account for up to 67% of total catch.
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Other estimates have concluded that for every ‘target’ animal, up to 10 ‘trash’ animals are killed. These trash animals routinely include our dogs and cats, as well as deer, birds and endangered species. The animals often die as a result of their injuries. The following are just a small sample of the recent, reported incidents of ‘non-target’ animals being trapped:
- In January 2012, Leila Basen and Doc McEwen were walking their dog, Lola, along a recreational trail in Hemmingford, Quebec. Suddenly, Lola became caught in a Conibear trap that had been placed near the path. Despite managing to get Lola free and rushing her to the vet, extensive injuries forced her to be euthanized. (CBC News Story)
- In December 2011, in Newfoundland, Laurie Short-Cahill’s mother-in-law was walking her dog, Riley, who found himself caught in a coyote snare near a popular cabin area. The snare wasn’t marked, and was no more than 1 kilometre away from the highway. Sadly, Riley was killed. (CBC Radio Story)
- In March 2012, in Constance Lake, Ontario, Larry Gillis and grandson Jeff Gillis caught an Endangered Eastern Wolverine (while targeting lynx). Gillis claims he didn’t realize wolverines were an endangered species until a marine biologist in Hearst had the Ministry of Natural Resources confiscated the body. “They said I couldn’t sell it or possess it.” Gillis said. (Wawatay News)
- In January 2011, a Manitoba trapper found a dead, full grown male cougar in his trap (which was meant for coyotes). The cougar is listed as a protected species, so under the law the trapper had to report it to Manitoba Conservation. The cougar was the fourth found in the province since 1973. (CBC News Story)
There is almost no incentive for trappers to report non-target catches, especially if they are endangered animals (which could result in penalization), and there is virtually no way to enforce the laws that make it illegal to catch endangered species. And because traps literally don’t have the capacity to discriminate, there is no way to prevent non-target catches. The Gillis’ are a prime example of how ‘in touch’ with conservation efforts the trapping community is. For a more complete list of non-target animals who have been caught in traps (including companion animals), click here. Traps are a danger to humans as well. For example, in New Brunswick, you can legally set a trap within 300 metres of a dwelling, including schools, playgrounds, athletic fields, etc. and in B.C. you can legally set a trap 200 metres from a dwelling in or near water.
So how does the industry manage to argue that trapping animals is ‘humane’? They refer to the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS). source
So how does the industry manage to argue that trapping animals is ‘humane’? They refer to the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS). source
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Warning - Graphic # - Fur Trapping Investigation
All fur that are marketed around the world are for decoration, fashion and swagger - fur trading today serves more as a currency on welfare in this boastful industry. This animal-tormenting-chain maintains many workers and employees around the world. But an industry that systematic tormenting animals can never rest on those terms. This industry do not play any essential role in the secular society, it only exist to making profits and money from animal suffering - there's no excuse to continue this killing or storage of animals to maintain a global employment services and forcing society to use fur in - unawareness, ignorance, vanity or as boasting luxury item.
IFTF continuing their chanting .....
Through its work, and the activities of members, IFTF seeks to protect fur trade interests and promote innovation, high standards and a positive factual image of fur and the fur industry worldwide.
The IFTF promotes strict codes of practice that meet or exceed established and accepted standards for animal welfare for both wild and farmed fur. The fur trade does not trade in endangered species.
The fur trade has a long and fascinating history, stretching as far back as the Stone Age when skins were first worn by man for clothing and protection.
The IFTF promotes strict codes of practice that meet or exceed established and accepted standards for animal welfare for both wild and farmed fur. The fur trade does not trade in endangered species.
The fur trade has a long and fascinating history, stretching as far back as the Stone Age when skins were first worn by man for clothing and protection.
Many ancient Mediterranean civilisations, including the Phoenicians, the Greeks and the Romans, attached great ceremonial importance to dressed (tanned) animal skins and furs, which were worn as a symbol of power and luxury, as well as protection in battle. In Northern Europe, fur began to be worn as a fashion item as well as for warmth from the 10th century.
During the 11th and 12th centuries, hats made from beaver felt first became fashionable, developing into a trend for fur caps, gloves and muffs. This led to the foundation of the first European guilds for furriers.
All these uses of fur helped to drive the increase in commerce but it was in the 17th century that the trade really took off. The need to satisfy European demand, initially for beaver hats, explains many key historical developments at this time. The search for fine skins was behind Russia's push eastwards, beyond the Urals into Siberia and the Pacific regions.
During the 11th and 12th centuries, hats made from beaver felt first became fashionable, developing into a trend for fur caps, gloves and muffs. This led to the foundation of the first European guilds for furriers.
All these uses of fur helped to drive the increase in commerce but it was in the 17th century that the trade really took off. The need to satisfy European demand, initially for beaver hats, explains many key historical developments at this time. The search for fine skins was behind Russia's push eastwards, beyond the Urals into Siberia and the Pacific regions.
And demand for fur led many Europeans to set out for newly discovered North America to trade with native populations, exchanging furs and food for tools. For some 200 years, there was intense competition between French and English adventurers, traders and even governments in the battle to control the North American fur trade.
But the result was the exploration, mapping and settlement of much of modern day Canada. A key moment for the fur trade was in 1670, when King Charles II of England granted a charter to his cousin Prince Rupert and a group of investors to be true and absolute Lordes and Proprietors of all the land and seas around the Hudson Bay.
Initially founded to meet the demand for beaver hats in Europe, by the early 19th century, the Hudson's Bay Company was one of the most powerful organisations in North America, controlling most of Canada as well as the trade in furs. During the 19th century, Australia and New Zealand became large suppliers of lambskins, and remain so to this day.
But the result was the exploration, mapping and settlement of much of modern day Canada. A key moment for the fur trade was in 1670, when King Charles II of England granted a charter to his cousin Prince Rupert and a group of investors to be true and absolute Lordes and Proprietors of all the land and seas around the Hudson Bay.
Initially founded to meet the demand for beaver hats in Europe, by the early 19th century, the Hudson's Bay Company was one of the most powerful organisations in North America, controlling most of Canada as well as the trade in furs. During the 19th century, Australia and New Zealand became large suppliers of lambskins, and remain so to this day.
Towards the end of the 19th century, Central Asia (today's Uzbekistan, Turkemenistan and Afghanistan) became an important supplier of Karakul or Persian lamb skins. Russian and Armenian merchants would collect the skins and, after local bargaining, would bring them back for sale either in London, Leipzig or sell them domestically in Nishni Novgorod.
By the early 1900s, Karakul farming was introduced into South West Africa (now Namibia), where the arid, desert conditions are similar to those of the Central Asian steppes. By the turn of the twentieth century, South America became of source of supply for a variety of skins for the fur trade. In the 1920s, Argentina and Uruguay were important suppliers, particularly of nutria and lambskins.
By the early 1900s, Karakul farming was introduced into South West Africa (now Namibia), where the arid, desert conditions are similar to those of the Central Asian steppes. By the turn of the twentieth century, South America became of source of supply for a variety of skins for the fur trade. In the 1920s, Argentina and Uruguay were important suppliers, particularly of nutria and lambskins.
We must remember who among other are IFTF-members: China, South Korea, Namibia, Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Turkey, Portugal, Spain and Greece - where we truly know how bad governments and authorities manage and control animal welfare in general - some countries do not even have any animal welfare regulated by laws for fur animals (or domestic animals) - Moreover, it is animal cruelty to confine an animal, let suffer in a trap, kill with sticks, skinning alive - to name a few activities in the fur trade.
Today, farmed furs (mainly mink and fox) are the mainstay of the fur trade, representing approximately 85% of the industry's turnover.
The majority of skins both wild and farmed from all over the world are sold through international auction houses, from where fur starts its journey, via dressers and dyers, designers and manufacturers, to the consumer.
The trade in furs continues to support the traditional lifestyles and cultural values of many aboriginal Canadians, Alaskans, Cajun Louisianans, Siberians, Namibians and Afghans, many of whom live in regions that do not lend themselves to most agricultural activities.
The fur trade's long history of craftsmanship also lives on. New technological developments (?) combine with the traditional skills of the artisan to produce beautiful, unique creations out of the supremely natural product of fur.
The majority of skins both wild and farmed from all over the world are sold through international auction houses, from where fur starts its journey, via dressers and dyers, designers and manufacturers, to the consumer.
The trade in furs continues to support the traditional lifestyles and cultural values of many aboriginal Canadians, Alaskans, Cajun Louisianans, Siberians, Namibians and Afghans, many of whom live in regions that do not lend themselves to most agricultural activities.
The fur trade's long history of craftsmanship also lives on. New technological developments (?) combine with the traditional skills of the artisan to produce beautiful, unique creations out of the supremely natural product of fur.
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Seal culling in Canada, Namibia and Norway - conducted by professional assassin - not indigenous people
Warning - Graphic # - Rebecca Aldworth and the Protect Seals team cover the cruel Canada seal hunt.
Easily viewed - Canada's 2013 Baby Seal Slaughter Begins .......
Easily viewed - Canada's 2013 Baby Seal Slaughter Begins .......
Animal welfare by IFTF - to divert buyers' concerns that animals may suffering (which they do).
People who support principles of animal welfare accept that animals are very important to us for many reasons, even vital to the survival of some communities. Animals have always provided us with food and clothing – from the earliest arrival of homo sapiens we have hunted animals.
The earliest settlements were made possible through farming of livestock and crops, and various animal species have been farmed over thousands of generations. Modern farm animals are very different to their wild counterparts; it is no different in fur farming.
In modern times, numerous life-saving medical advances have been made possible only through being able to test procedures and drugs on animals. Many people derive a huge amount of comfort and affection from keeping pets.
Given the huge and unending importance of animals to humans and our massive influence over them, animal welfare supporters believe that we humans have a duty to care for the wellbeing of animals we come into contact with and that we should endeavour to conserve sustainable animal populations and biodiversity. Fur dealer’s license - NEVADA
The earliest settlements were made possible through farming of livestock and crops, and various animal species have been farmed over thousands of generations. Modern farm animals are very different to their wild counterparts; it is no different in fur farming.
In modern times, numerous life-saving medical advances have been made possible only through being able to test procedures and drugs on animals. Many people derive a huge amount of comfort and affection from keeping pets.
Given the huge and unending importance of animals to humans and our massive influence over them, animal welfare supporters believe that we humans have a duty to care for the wellbeing of animals we come into contact with and that we should endeavour to conserve sustainable animal populations and biodiversity. Fur dealer’s license - NEVADA
Animal rights supporters believe that animals have the same legal and moral rights as human beings and that therefore humans cannot keep, use or manage animals, for any purpose, including:
Medical Research, Farming / farmed animals, Meat, Milk and Eggs (including organic), Hunting and Fishing, Leather and Fur (including snakeskin, crocodile etc.), Wool, Cashmere, Pashmina, Angora, Silk, Zoos / Circuses/ Animal shelters/Pets and Horse-drawn carriages/ploughs etc.
Animal rights groups exist to end the use of animals for any reason and invest an enormous proportion of their resources in publicity campaigns against the use of animals.
The IFTF and its members believe that people have a democratic right to make their own decisions about what to do for a legitimate living, what to eat and what to wear; people should not have to live in a world where a major lifestyle choice is removed altogether (!).
Medical Research, Farming / farmed animals, Meat, Milk and Eggs (including organic), Hunting and Fishing, Leather and Fur (including snakeskin, crocodile etc.), Wool, Cashmere, Pashmina, Angora, Silk, Zoos / Circuses/ Animal shelters/Pets and Horse-drawn carriages/ploughs etc.
Animal rights groups exist to end the use of animals for any reason and invest an enormous proportion of their resources in publicity campaigns against the use of animals.
The IFTF and its members believe that people have a democratic right to make their own decisions about what to do for a legitimate living, what to eat and what to wear; people should not have to live in a world where a major lifestyle choice is removed altogether (!).
Many producer countries have national authority or self-regulated industry inspection and reporting schemes, involving veterinary or other official scrutiny.
For example in Denmark, all Danish mink farms are subject to annual, statutory veterinarian visits.
The visits involve a routine inspection to identify any health or welfare issues on the farm. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration also makes regular inspections of farm welfare.
Conditions on farms are thoroughly checked and advice on improvements given when required. Many farm associations also have voluntary certification programmes in place.
The trapping of animals whether for pest control, conservation reasons or for fur and meat is governed by the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards in Canada, Russia and the EU and a similar agreement exists in the USA. The Canadian government and the IFTF continues to invest substantial funds under the Fur Institute of Canada into testing and promoting humane species specific traps, as well as trapper training programmes.
For example in Denmark, all Danish mink farms are subject to annual, statutory veterinarian visits.
The visits involve a routine inspection to identify any health or welfare issues on the farm. The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration also makes regular inspections of farm welfare.
Conditions on farms are thoroughly checked and advice on improvements given when required. Many farm associations also have voluntary certification programmes in place.
The trapping of animals whether for pest control, conservation reasons or for fur and meat is governed by the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards in Canada, Russia and the EU and a similar agreement exists in the USA. The Canadian government and the IFTF continues to invest substantial funds under the Fur Institute of Canada into testing and promoting humane species specific traps, as well as trapper training programmes.
This is a simplified statement by IFTF - not only activists, but ordinary people, are concerned about that animals are forced to suffer in various activities carried out by humans - The fur industry is an activity in which many now have taken the time to really get adequate information about - demonstrating that animals actually suffer more than what the fur business world suggest.
The European Union (EU) - Ban on trade in cat, dog and seal fur/skin.
The European Union (EU) bans trade in cat and dog fur, including imports and exports. It also introduces accompanying measures to ensure the effectiveness of this ban.
ACT Regulation (EC) No 1523/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2007 banning the placing on the market and the import to, or export from, the Community of cat and dog fur, and products containing such fur.
The European Union (EU) bans the trade of seal products on the European Union (EU) market, harmonising national legislation in this area. ACT Regulation (EC) No 1007/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 September 2009 on trade in seal products.
This applies to the European Union and three species - but what about all the other animals, suffering in this global industry?
The European Union (EU) bans trade in cat and dog fur, including imports and exports. It also introduces accompanying measures to ensure the effectiveness of this ban.
ACT Regulation (EC) No 1523/2007 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2007 banning the placing on the market and the import to, or export from, the Community of cat and dog fur, and products containing such fur.
The European Union (EU) bans the trade of seal products on the European Union (EU) market, harmonising national legislation in this area. ACT Regulation (EC) No 1007/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 September 2009 on trade in seal products.
This applies to the European Union and three species - but what about all the other animals, suffering in this global industry?
A global profit corporation - Asia
Dogs hanging by the neck from a wire noose, water is poured down their throat through a hose until they drown. Many are skinned while still alive.
This is just one of the horrific scenes captured on video by investigators from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) as they infiltrated the cat and dog fur industry in China, Thailand and the Philippines.
Cats and dogs that were once someone's pets, rounded up, transported in sacks and crates. Some are held in dingy, dark unheated buildings during the bitter winter of northern China, often without food or water.
The 18-month undercover investigation discovered that the trade in cat and dog fur is far bigger than was ever previously believed - the HSUS has revealed that more than 2 million of these domestic animals are abused and killed by the international fur trade each year.
This is just one of the horrific scenes captured on video by investigators from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) as they infiltrated the cat and dog fur industry in China, Thailand and the Philippines.
Cats and dogs that were once someone's pets, rounded up, transported in sacks and crates. Some are held in dingy, dark unheated buildings during the bitter winter of northern China, often without food or water.
The 18-month undercover investigation discovered that the trade in cat and dog fur is far bigger than was ever previously believed - the HSUS has revealed that more than 2 million of these domestic animals are abused and killed by the international fur trade each year.
And this sick trade isn't just something that happens in far off lands - at least one company in Britain recently traded openly in the furs of these animals.
Infiltrating this industry, the HSUS and German investigative reporter Manfred Karremann filmed and photographed the whole sordid business from start to finish, exposing how the trade is inextricably linked to the rest of the fur industry.
Cat and dog fur products were found by the HSUS in several countries across Europe as well as the USA, and according to the HSUS "(fur) auction house employees said that some of their customers come from the US, though most are from Great Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain."
These animals end up as gloves, coats, hats or fur trim; their skins are used in the production of drums and other musical instruments.
Some of the animals are raised on breeding farms, mostly in northern China where the colder climate enhances the quality and thickness of the animals' coats.
Anywhere from 5 to 300 dogs are kept on dog farms; up to 70 cats are kept on the cat farms.
Not all the animals come from these breeding centres; some Chinese families keep a few cats or dogs and kill them when the annual slaughter season begins.
Infiltrating this industry, the HSUS and German investigative reporter Manfred Karremann filmed and photographed the whole sordid business from start to finish, exposing how the trade is inextricably linked to the rest of the fur industry.
Cat and dog fur products were found by the HSUS in several countries across Europe as well as the USA, and according to the HSUS "(fur) auction house employees said that some of their customers come from the US, though most are from Great Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain."
These animals end up as gloves, coats, hats or fur trim; their skins are used in the production of drums and other musical instruments.
Some of the animals are raised on breeding farms, mostly in northern China where the colder climate enhances the quality and thickness of the animals' coats.
Anywhere from 5 to 300 dogs are kept on dog farms; up to 70 cats are kept on the cat farms.
Not all the animals come from these breeding centres; some Chinese families keep a few cats or dogs and kill them when the annual slaughter season begins.
Long-haired cats are kept as pets in China. Short-haired cats, especially grey cats or orange tabbies, are kept outside, generally tethered by wire, and raised for their fur.
Estimates are that about half a million cats are killed each season, from October to February - The HSUS investigation was done in 2009 - unfortunately, the Asian fur, skins and meat business has increased each year.
Investigators visited fur companies where they were told 50,000 cat skins and the same number of dog skins were in stock. One claimed to have as many as 100,000 cat skins in its factory.
The furs are made into coats that are virtually indistinguishable from fur such as mink or fox, and are on display with furs from other animals.
Referring to the similarities between domestic cat and dog fur, and fur from other species, a HSUS spokesperson said "We can consider all fur trim to be suspect", adding, "consumers have to be vigilant" and report suspicious items.
The president of a German company prominent in the cat fur trade is quoted as saying: "When cat fur is dyed it is not easily distinguished from other furs."
Around 24 cats are required to make a fur coat, and 10-12 dogs. This number is obviously higher if kittens and puppies are used.
Estimates are that about half a million cats are killed each season, from October to February - The HSUS investigation was done in 2009 - unfortunately, the Asian fur, skins and meat business has increased each year.
Investigators visited fur companies where they were told 50,000 cat skins and the same number of dog skins were in stock. One claimed to have as many as 100,000 cat skins in its factory.
The furs are made into coats that are virtually indistinguishable from fur such as mink or fox, and are on display with furs from other animals.
Referring to the similarities between domestic cat and dog fur, and fur from other species, a HSUS spokesperson said "We can consider all fur trim to be suspect", adding, "consumers have to be vigilant" and report suspicious items.
The president of a German company prominent in the cat fur trade is quoted as saying: "When cat fur is dyed it is not easily distinguished from other furs."
Around 24 cats are required to make a fur coat, and 10-12 dogs. This number is obviously higher if kittens and puppies are used.
ANIMAL welfare and rights groups examined in 2000, using DNA analysis and found that a major UK store amid suspicions that they contain the fur of cats or dogs.
The tests were part of a two-year investigation into the slaughter of millions of the domestic animals for the fur market in conditions of squalor and cruelty in Asia.
Undercover investigators from the Humane Society of the United States filmed dogs and cats being stabbed, beaten and throttled to death before being skinned, and reported seeing some animals still breathing as their pelts were removed.
The tests were part of a two-year investigation into the slaughter of millions of the domestic animals for the fur market in conditions of squalor and cruelty in Asia.
Undercover investigators from the Humane Society of the United States filmed dogs and cats being stabbed, beaten and throttled to death before being skinned, and reported seeing some animals still breathing as their pelts were removed.
Campaigners estimate the annual death toll at more than two million, including animals reared in breeding farms, strays rounded up from the streets and even kidnapped family pets.
Many of the furs are exported from countries like China, Thailand, Korea and the Philippines to Europe, where they are frequently sold under false labels, said the RSPCA.
The import and sale of cat and dog furs is illegal in the EU from 2007, but in 2000, traders used false labels to avoid alerting customers to the reality of what they were buying - this applies probably still because no random controls are made (what we know) - it's likely just as bad as the meat scandal, probably worse.
Many of the furs are exported from countries like China, Thailand, Korea and the Philippines to Europe, where they are frequently sold under false labels, said the RSPCA.
The import and sale of cat and dog furs is illegal in the EU from 2007, but in 2000, traders used false labels to avoid alerting customers to the reality of what they were buying - this applies probably still because no random controls are made (what we know) - it's likely just as bad as the meat scandal, probably worse.
Warning - Graphic # - China Fur Trade Exposed in 60 Seconds
Slaughterhouses In the Philippines, investigators visited a cat slaughterhouse where as many as 100 cats are killed and skinned on one day.
The animals here were killed primarily for their skin rather than fur, but the suffering is the same. Only male cats are used as the nipples of female cats reduces the usable size of the skin.
This has led to a scarcity of male cats in the city where the slaughterhouse is located, and collectors drive to distant cities to round up the cats. Some of the animals are strays, while most are stolen pets.
The cats are stuffed into sacks and driven for up to 6 hours without food or water to the slaughterhouse. Investigators witnessed cats hung from the neck by ropes, while other cats watched helplessly.
The animals here were killed primarily for their skin rather than fur, but the suffering is the same. Only male cats are used as the nipples of female cats reduces the usable size of the skin.
This has led to a scarcity of male cats in the city where the slaughterhouse is located, and collectors drive to distant cities to round up the cats. Some of the animals are strays, while most are stolen pets.
The cats are stuffed into sacks and driven for up to 6 hours without food or water to the slaughterhouse. Investigators witnessed cats hung from the neck by ropes, while other cats watched helplessly.
Videos and photos show young children helping in the slaughterhouse.
The involvement of children appears to be common, as when police in the Philippines raided the home of a woman in September '99 who had been killing cats for their fur, they found that she was using children to round up and kill the animals.
Police found the remains of butchered cats as well as live cats in bamboo cages. The home owner's business apparently exported the cats' fur to Japan (where it was used as lining for boots, purses and coats) and sold the flesh as meat to be ground into sausage.
Labelling It is clear that cat and dog fur does not usually get labelled as such. Fur traders told investigators that any label could be put in any garment or fur product, depending on the preference of the buyer.
According to the HSUS "in other words, the company supplying the fur was perfectly willing to label dog or cat fur as being fur from some other species presumably more acceptable to consumers."
Police found the remains of butchered cats as well as live cats in bamboo cages. The home owner's business apparently exported the cats' fur to Japan (where it was used as lining for boots, purses and coats) and sold the flesh as meat to be ground into sausage.
Labelling It is clear that cat and dog fur does not usually get labelled as such. Fur traders told investigators that any label could be put in any garment or fur product, depending on the preference of the buyer.
According to the HSUS "in other words, the company supplying the fur was perfectly willing to label dog or cat fur as being fur from some other species presumably more acceptable to consumers."
A German importer told investigators that the export of cat and dog furs to the US wasn't a problem - explaining that it was just a question of what the product is called.
Cat fur - is known by several names: house cat, wild cat, Katzenfelle, Goyangi, mountain cat.
Dog fur - may be labelled as gae-wolf, goupee, or sobaki, among other names, while dog skin is often referred to as special skin, lamb skin or mountain goat skin.
Dog and cats skins - are used for a variety of products, such as bed sheets, golf gloves, handbags and rheumatism aids. In some countries the furs are on open sale.
Very important movie to watch, but - Graphic # - HSUS investigation of the dog and cat fur trade in China
What's the difference? While most people will be rightly horrified and distressed at the way in which cats and dogs are bred, stolen, transported, abused and killed for their fur, they will hopefully realise that there is no difference between this and the murder of other animals for their fur.
50 million animals are killed each year for their fur: reared on factory farms that cause them to go mad and mutilate themselves and each other, or caught in vicious leghold traps and left to starve, freeze, drown, be beaten to death or gnaw off their own limbs in a futile attempt to escape.
This is the reality of the fur trade. The trade does not care whether the animals they kill are wild animals, are bred specifically for their fur, or are stolen pets from someone's garden. Those in the fur trade have no conscience, no morals. They are governed by greed and selfishness.
50 million animals are killed each year for their fur: reared on factory farms that cause them to go mad and mutilate themselves and each other, or caught in vicious leghold traps and left to starve, freeze, drown, be beaten to death or gnaw off their own limbs in a futile attempt to escape.
This is the reality of the fur trade. The trade does not care whether the animals they kill are wild animals, are bred specifically for their fur, or are stolen pets from someone's garden. Those in the fur trade have no conscience, no morals. They are governed by greed and selfishness.
Fur trade bodies in the US had a mixed reception to the expose. While the Fur Commission was reluctant to criticise the use of cat and dog fur (later trying to diffuse the situation by comparing the killing of 2 million cats and dogs to the 8 million domestic animals put down in US animal shelters), a spokesperson for the Fur Council described it as "distasteful to think about ... who would want to buy that? Dogs and cats are pets to us." (!).
Members of the National Trappers Association joked about the issue, commenting "on the lighter side - I was wondering if there is a market for those stray tom cats I catch in my coon cubbies!", referring to the thousands of "trash" (ie non-target) animals caught in their traps each year (coon means racoon).
Members of the National Trappers Association joked about the issue, commenting "on the lighter side - I was wondering if there is a market for those stray tom cats I catch in my coon cubbies!", referring to the thousands of "trash" (ie non-target) animals caught in their traps each year (coon means racoon).
In the UK, the fur industry at first remained silent. But later Jan Brown of the British Fur Trade Assn, the body representing the fur industry in Britain came out in support of the trade in cat and dog fur. She wrote to several national newspapers claiming that these animals were not pets and their slaughter for fur coats was justifiable.
The USA banned - the import, export and sale of products made from dog and cat fur in 2000.
Italy, France, Denmark, Greece, Belgium and Australia ban the import of cat and dog fur but the sale is still legal, and novelty items made from feral cat fur can sometimes be found in Australian gift shops, especially island areas.
The European Union ban on imports took effect as of the January 1, 2009 - However, some products made with dog or cat fur may be mislabeled, on purpose or accidentally.
Source: CAFT - Cats and Dogs Skinned Alive - Cats and Dogs Killed for the Fur Trade
The USA banned - the import, export and sale of products made from dog and cat fur in 2000.
Italy, France, Denmark, Greece, Belgium and Australia ban the import of cat and dog fur but the sale is still legal, and novelty items made from feral cat fur can sometimes be found in Australian gift shops, especially island areas.
The European Union ban on imports took effect as of the January 1, 2009 - However, some products made with dog or cat fur may be mislabeled, on purpose or accidentally.
Source: CAFT - Cats and Dogs Skinned Alive - Cats and Dogs Killed for the Fur Trade
People need to be more aware of the enormous cruelty that goes on, especially in Asian countries - HELP the animals by saying NO - Do NOT buy ANYTHING with fur, leather or skin!
The majority of the animals who have been forced into this profitable business - have suffered throughout their lives and died a painful death - We shall not contribute to that.