Fur farmers and trappers kill millions of animals—including dogs and cats—for their fur each year. About half of these animals die specifically for fur trim. The industry tries to keep the cruelty hidden, but suffering and death are central to fur. Better labeling laws will help you shop fur-free.
We don’t kill dogs or cats for fur in America, but we do import fur from countries with lax animal welfare laws. A video shows Chinese workers skinning raccoon dogs alive, and that fur is sold in the U.S., often incorrectly labeled. Fur can be sheared or dyed to look fake, too.
On fur farms around the world, millions of raccoon dogs, rabbits, foxes, mink, chinchillas, and other animals spend their lives in wire cages only to die from inhumane neck-breaking or anal electrocution.
Pets and "nontarget" wildlife—even endangered species—die in indiscriminate traps everywhere.
Shop fur-free to protect furbearing animals.
News & Events
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March 11, 2010
Giving Fur Back to the Animals
Increased interest in the Coats for Cubs program gives more wildlife rehabilitators a great way to warm and comfort orphaned and injured wild animals—old fur clothing items.
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November 12, 2009
2009 Cool. vs. Cruel Awards Feature Styles and Smiles
The 2009 Cool vs. Cruel awards celebrated animal-friendly fashion and fur-free designs
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September 25, 2009
Fur False Advertising Case to Proceed
D.C. Superior Court ordered a false advertising case to proceed against major retailers accused of mislabeling garments containing animal fur.
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April 27, 2009
Godfather of Modern Tattoo Inks a Deal for Animals
Don Ed Hardy, the "godfather of modern tattoo," vowed not to use animal fur in any future products.
Our Victories
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January 29, 2010
Saks Fifth Avenue Settles Fur False Advertising Suit
The HSUS and retailer Saks Incorporated have reached a settlement in a lawsuit alleging that several of the nation’s largest department stores and fashion designers have repeatedly engaged in false advertising and mislabeling of fur garments.
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December 29, 2009
2009: A Banner Year for Animals
The HSUS reflects on some major achievements for animal protection in 2009. Countless animals have been rescued from harm, spared from suffering and guaranteed basic standards of humane treatment.
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December 16, 2009
The HSUS Recognizes Top 12 State Legislative Achievements in Animal Protection
The HSUS celebrates the top 12 state legislative achievements in animal protection in 2009.
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December 1, 2009
Lord & Taylor Bans Raccoon Dog Fur from U.S. Stores
The HSUS and retailer Lord & Taylor have reached a settlement in a lawsuit alleging that several large department stores and fashion designers have repeatedly engaged in false advertising and mislabeling of fur garments. Lord & Taylor will end all use of raccoon dog fur and reform its advertising and garment labeling practices.