Question 3: How can I be sure the Canadian fur industry practices humane standards?

• Trapping in Canada is strictly regulated by the provincial and territorial wildlife departments. Canada is, in fact, a world leader in the development of new trapping methods. With support from Environment Canada and the International Fur Trade Federation, more than $20 million has been invested in research coordinated by the Fur Institute of Canada. This work provided the scientific basis for the Agreement on International Humane Trapping Standards (AIHTS) adopted by the European Union and the main wild fur-producing regions (Canada, USA, Russia). Trappers cannot receive their trapping licenses until they have taken special courses to learn the most up-to-date and humane methods.
• Fur farming, like all agriculture, is regulated by the provincial agriculture departments. Canadian mink and fox farmers have adopted Recommended Codes of Practice, developed by Agriculture Canada in cooperation with the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) and farm groups. Farmers have every reason to follow these codes since only well-cared for animals can produce the high quality fur required to compete in international markets. Farmers who don’t provide excellent housing, nutrition and care to their animals will not remain in business for long!