In response to your article “Grin and bare it” (1/16/08), I would like to compliment Ms. Thomson and her fellow protesters for braving the cold to speak up for those with no voices. Oftentimes it takes a group of dedicated activists with a little creativity to shine a spotlight on an industry that refuses to make even the most basic changes in how their animals are treated. By using an upbeat and fun approach to a very serious issue, they were able to attract noticeable support from the community, and educate countless people in the process.
Most students are horrified to find out that animals raised and killed on fur farms are often beaten to death, anally electrocuted, or even skinned alive. Many times, animals such as dogs and cats are killed and skinned for their pelts, which are then mislabeled as fox or some other animal, for sale in U.S. stores. An undercover investigation into a fur farm in China (the largest exporter of animal skins) documented dogs and cats with identification collars still on them, suggesting that they had been stolen or captured from people’s homes to be killed for their fur.
Thankfully, it’s never been easier to boycott this cruelty by choosing humane alternatives, such as faux fur. By opting for the non-animal material, we can each put our money into the hands of compassionate companies, and take it away from those that abuse animals. For more information, visit peta2.com to request free stickers and a DVD.
Ryan Huling
College Campaign Coordinator, peta2.com