This month most of the media in BC have reported about local fashion label Kit and Ace being accused of using dog fur in the construction of their Berkeley model toque pictured below. You've probably seen stories shared on Facebook followed by comment streams slamming the local clothing manufacturer.
Photo: Kit and Ace
The accusers in this case are an animal rights organization called the Furbearer Defenders and the Vancouver Humane Society who both work to make sure no fur is being used in garments. The VHS was quoted by CBC as saying that "In many ways this issue is irrelevant because in our view, no animal should have to suffer and die for the sake of fashion".
The fur used in the toque comes from an animal called the Asiatic Racoon, otherwise known as a Tanuki. Arguably more wolf than dog, definitely not a raccoon as we know them (and not even in the same family as a racoon, they are technically a canine) but as Fricker says, that's irrelevant. The question here is not about whether Kit and Ace are using cute and cuddly puppy dog fur in their hats, it's about fur in general. Do you wear leather shoes? Enjoy veal and don't really think about - or care - where your food or shoes come from? You might want to rock this toque. Support PETA and are opposed to the seal hunt? Maybe you're vegetarian or vegan because you don't like the idea of animals being bred and killed to make you happy/comfortable? Don't buy this toque.
Kudos to the animal rights folks for getting the activist publication the National Observer to latch onto the story like a wolf, bringing all of the mainstream media along for the ride. Make no mistake, this issue is not about the grey area between what's a cute pet and what's meant for a hat, it's about wearing fur or not wearing fur. We're not siding with one or the other here but are publishing this with the hopes that you read beyond the headline and decide for yourself.
Oh, and fun fact: remember that racoon suit that Mario wore in Super Mario Brothers 3 for SNES? It's actually a Tanuki suit! No joke.
