A startling investigation shows that 80 percent of jackets mislabeled as faux fur contain raccoon dog fur(learn more). U.S. law prohibits the import and sale of dog and cat fur products – but the law does not protect raccoon dogs, nor does it require labeling products with fur valued under $150.
Wild raccoon dogs are members of the canine family native to dense woodlands and forests of Asia, but they are domesticated in China primarily for their fur. Undercover video footage shows gruesome methods used, such as skinning them alive. Estimates of how many raccoon dogs are killed each year range from 1.5 million to 4 million.
Reps. Jim Moran (D-Va.) and Mike Ferguson (R-N.J.) have introduced the Dog and Cat Fur Prohibition Act (H.R. 891), a bill that would protect raccoon dogs and require the labeling of all fur products, thus closing the loophole that has allowed the deceptive marketing of real fur as "faux" fur.
Please urge your Representative to help close this loophole by cosponsoring the Dog and Cat Fur Prohibition Act now!
I am outraged to discover that a number of jackets mislabeled as having faux fur contain raccoon dog fur. Many animals are used for their fur, but the raccoon dog stands out for the inhumane treatment it receives, such as being skinned alive.
H.R. 891, introduced by Representatives Jim Moran (D-Va.) and Mike Ferguson (R-N.J.) in February 2007 prohibits the sale of raccoon dog fur. This bill has 165 co-sponsors, but has yet to be voted on in Congress.
In addition, the bill calls for fur being labeled as such regardless of its monetary value. Currently, the federal Fur Labeling Act only requires that products be labeled as fur if they contain over $150 worth of fur. This stipulation would help protect raccoon dogs and other animals by giving consumers thorough information about products, allowing them to make conscious decisions about what they choose to support or boycott.
I urge you to place H.R. 891 on the Calendar to reach the floor, so that it can be voted on. This bill is sorely needed for the protection of animals and consumers alike.
