With a fall line that includes rabbit jackets and collars imported from China,  Tristan & America appears to think that fur is an acceptable fashion statement. But behind their slick storefronts and advertising lie the harsh realities of the cruel fur industry.

Rabbit Fur Farms

Like other animals “farmed” for their fur, rabbits - who are extremely clean by nature - are kept in tiny, filthy cages, surrounded by their own waste. They spend their entire lives standing on the thin cage wires, never having a chance to dig, jump or play. The methods of slaughter are inhumane, too - they are killed by having their necks broken or having their skulls beaten before being strung up by the legs and having their heads cut off.

Some stores justify the selling of rabbit fur by saying that it is “just a by-product” of the rabbit-meat industry. But the rabbit fur industry demands the pelt of a thicker, older animal than those slaughtered for meat. In fact, the UN reports that “few skins are now retrieved from slaughterhouses.”

Cat and Dog Fur?

Tristan & America’s fur-bearing garb is made in China where there are no animal welfare laws. What’s more, there is a thriving, extremely cruel dog and cat fur industry in China, much of which is often falsely labeled as “rabbit fur” before export to Western markets. Without expensive DNA tests, it is virtually impossible to know exactly what kind of animal you are actually wearing if you choose to wear fur.

Fur Trim

Although some consumers may brush off fur trim as less harmful to animals, that little bit of fur is just as deadly as the fur required for an entire coat. Fur trim is not made from scraps of leftover fur. An animal suffers and dies for each fashion item, whether fur trimmed or full length.

What You Can Do

Don’t shop at Tristan & America until they stop selling fur. With so many high-quality alternatives to rabbit fur, compassionate consumers can spare rabbits and instead choose soft acrylics, brushed cotton and faux fur.

Contact Tristan & America and urge them to stop supporting this violent industry. Tell them fur is cruel and outdated and you will not shop at their stores until they stop selling it.

Gilles Fortin, CEO Tristan & America
20 Des Seigneurs St.
Montreal QC  H3K 3K3

Tel.: (514) 937-4601
Fax: (514) 935-1233

gilles.fortin@tristan-america.com