Humane Society: Faux Fur On Kohl's Jacket Is Real Raccoon Dog

An investigation by The Humane Society of the United States has found that a men's parka sold by retailer Kohl's with the description "faux-fur trim" uses real fur from raccoon dogs.

The Humane Society tested the men's R&O Hooded Parka which was purchased online for testing on June 23.

"Raccoon dog fur is the species we'd consider the most misrepresented," said PJ Smith, the Humane Society's corporate outreach manager. He said the raccoon dog traces back to Asia and is in the same family as the domestic dog, fox and wolf.

Once the coat was purchased online by investigators, Smith said it was sent to a lab that determined with "a great degree of certainty that it was this particular species."

It's the second time in a year that the Humane Society has used investigators to reveal real fur marked as fake fur from Kohl's — on Cyber Monday in December 2013, the organization released a consumer warning that the retailer was selling handbags lined with real rabbit fur.

Raccoon dogs, seen here in Tokyo's Ueno Zoo, are often used in clothing and can be mislabeled as faux fur.(Photo: Chiaki Tsukumo, AP)

Kohl's is not the only company caught mislabeling fur. In 2011, The HSUS filed an Federal Trade Commission petition resulting in enforcement action against Neiman Marcus, Revolve Clothing and DrJays.com, which could result in fines of $16,000 an instance if they were found mislabeling again.

The Humane Society claims Kohl's is in violation of the Fur Products Labeling Act that requires retailers to disclose the name and origin of the animal killed.

"This is obviously problematic for people who want to go to a store and buy something not associated with the fur trade cruelty," said Smith. "We believe the best way for retailers like Kohl's to correct these problems is to go fur-free because this is an industry-wide problem."

USA Today Network has reached out to Kohl's for comment. Initial efforts have proven unsuccessful.

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Two Pet Stores Have Decided to Stop Buying Dogs from Commercial Breeders and Opted for Rescue Dogs from Shelters

On Christmas, while his 3-year-old daughter opened her presents, pet-shop owner Michael Gill was in his bathroom cradling an English bulldog mix puppy suffering from a lethal canine virus.

The dog had contracted parvo, a deadly and highly contagious intestinal disease. Six puppies in his store that died, along with seven that became sick, were delivered by a Missouri-based dog distributor, he said.

"It was the single worst experience I've had with animals in 20 years," said Gill, owner of We Love Pets in Media.

In February, Gill decided to stop buying dogs from commercial breeders and opted for rescue dogs from shelters, a trend the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) said was catching on.

The Missouri distributor says industry critics are uninformed.

Commercial pet stores often buy puppies from dog brokers or distributors, the middlemen between breeders and the retailers. Animal advocates say some of those breeders are puppy mills that raise the dogs in poor conditions.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates that there are about 10,000 puppy mills in the country. Of those, 20 percent to 30 percent are U.S. Department of Agriculture-licensed breeders licensed to sell to stores.

Missouri is a national leader in puppy mills, along with Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and South Dakota. More than two million dogs from puppy mills are sold each year, according to the humane society.

"It's been a bumpy ride," said Gill of the change in his business model, which also has required renovations at his Media and Springfield stores to accommodate the more mature and larger rescue dogs. "It's much more rewarding. We don't feel comfortable selling [brokered] puppies."

Gill's two locations are not the only area pet stores to make the change.

The owners of the 10 area PetsPlus stores, Mark Arcadia and Bruce Smith, made a similar decision. Two of their locations - in Jenkintown and on Roosevelt Boulevard in Philadelphia - are adopting rescue dogs. The other eight expect to convert by the end of the year.

"It is definitely a trend," said Kathleen Summers, the humane society's Director of Outreach and Research.

Two factors driving the change are consumer concerns over puppy mills and complaints about sick dogs purchased from pet stores, Summers said.

New local regulations are also pushing the conversion.

Citing concerns about puppy mills, governments in more than 50 places across the county have passed ordinances that ban the sale of commercially raised puppies in pet stores, Summers said.

The list includes Albuquerque, N.M.; Austin, Texas; Chicago; El Paso, Texas; Toledo, Ohio; San Diego; Los Angeles; and the state of Florida. In New Jersey, Brick, Manasquan, Point Pleasant, Point Pleasant Beach, and North Brunswick have banned sale of commercially raised puppies.

Michael Stokley, Director of Corporate Sales for Hunte Corp. in Goodman, Mo., one of the largest distributors of commercial puppies in North America, said lawmakers were uninformed on the issue. He said allegations against commercial distribution of puppies were driven by activists with an agenda.

"We have a totally regulated industry top to bottom," he said. "Yet arbitrarily, people are shutting down taxpaying, regulated businesses within their community."

We Love Pets and PetsPlus alleged that they purchased sick puppies from Hunte.

Stokley said that he was familiar with Gill's complaints, but that the store's "records did not support his allegations." The company meets all federal, state, and local regulations, he said.

The USDA inspection reports from 2011 to January 2014 showed Hunte to be in compliance.

Smith said PetsPlus did business with Hunte for 10 years but dropped it a year ago. He said Hunte had delivered puppies with colds and pneumonia.

Smith said the two PetsPlus stores now draw puppies from a shelter in Bowling Green, Ky., and were contacting with local shelters for adoptions.

"We like saving lives," he said.

PetsPlus still is listed in Hunte's database, although Stokley said he did not know when Hunte had last shipped puppies to the stores.

"If that is the decision they made, that is a business decision," he said.

Gill now works with one of the activists who picketed his store almost every weekend for 21/2 years.

Patricia Biswanger, now board president of the Chester County SPCA, said she did not hesitate when Gill offered the SPCA space for shelter dogs and other animals.

"It is all about saving animals," she said. "I'm delighted to be working with him."

Michael Gill of We Love Pets in Media and Springfield, with employee Gina Zwucky, calls the switch from commercially bred dogs to rescue animals "a bumpy ride," but "much more rewarding." (Clem Murray/ Staff Photographer)

Josh Salyer, manager of the PetsPlus store in Jenkintown, gets an appreciative lick from Macy. PetsPlus plans to convert its 10 stores in Pennsylvania and New Jersey from using dog brokers to drawing from shelters as sources. (Michael Bryant / Staff Photographer)

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Don't Let Ag-Gag Bills Hide Animal Cruelty - The President and CEO of the HSUS, Wayne Pacelle, Rev. Al Sharpton and Undercover Investigator Cody Carlson Discuss Ag-Gag Laws and Video Footage Touching on Food Safety in America

In recent years, whistleblowing employees have repeatedly exposed animal abuse, food safety threats, unsafe working conditions, and environmental problems at industrial agriculture operations. Unfortunately, the agricultural industry has introduced "anti-whistleblower" bills in an attempt to hide animal cruelty and prevent the American public from finding out about the abuses in the first place.

These bills would criminalize undercover investigators doing important work, such as our very own Cody Carlson, who went undercover to capture footage at four different factory farms -- inlcuding two in Iowa -- where there already is an "Ag-Gag" law in place.

Cody witnessed horrible abuse and found that workers had absolutely no regard for the animals' well-being. Watch as Rev. Al Sharpton, Wayne Pacelle, and Cody Carlson discuss Ag-Gag laws on MSNBC.




TAKE ACTION
Join The HSUS and animal lovers nationwide to protect animals from dangerous "ag-gag" bills by signing our pledge HERE.

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Did You Know that there are Homeless Horses?

When most people think of homeless animals, they think of dogs and cats. Did you know that there are homeless horses?

There are no unwanted horses in the United States, simply homeless horses. "Unwanted Horse" is a pro slaughter term.

No one has a litter of horses show up on their door step, no one is walking down the street and finds a basket full of baby horses!

All domestic horse breeding, save the exception of an unlatched gate, is controlled by human intervention. A homeless horse has simply outgrown the reason for which he or she has been bred and is now homeless, not unwanted.

As a domestic species in America, the horse tends to have an ownership history that closely resembles that of a used car. An estimate I’ve heard is that the average horse will pass through 7 to 10 homes in their lifetime. The implications of this sad fact are compounded many fold when you come to understand the nature and needs of a horse, a beautiful, highly intelligent herd animal who thrives on companionship, leadership, routine and a predictably safe environment.

The Humane Society of the United States, says, A typical horse has a life-span of more than 20 years and will have several owners over the course of his life. While most will find owners who love and cherish them, some will fall victim to abuse, neglect, or even death at a slaughter plant. We’re working to make sure that doesn’t happen.




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The HSUS Names the Washington Animal Rescue League one of the Top Ten Emergency Placement Partners of 2012

WARL Commended for Outstanding Dedication to Rescued Animals

Washington, DC - The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has named Washington Animal Rescue League as one of its top ten Emergency Placement Partners of 2012. Emergency Placement Partners are local animal agencies that work with The HSUS to provide ongoing care and find permanent homes for animals saved during large-scale rescue missions. There are more than 200 Placement Partners nationwide.

“We are thrilled to recognize Washington Animal Rescue League for its enthusiasm and dedication to helping when animals are in need,” said Michelle Cascio, manager of the emergency Placement Program for The HSUS. “Emergency Placement Partners play a critical role in our important mission to end animal cruelty, and we are thankful to Washington Animal Rescue League for being involved in this life-saving program.”

Twice in 2012, Washington Animal Rescue League deployed their mobile adoption vehicle hundreds of miles to assist The HSUS’ Animal Rescue Team with the transport and placement of puppy mill survivors. In August, they responded to a Shelby, Ohio, property where the breeder surrendered more than 250 dogs. They returned to Washington, D.C., with dozens of Chihuahuas and a few Shar Peis and worked tirelessly to find them all good homes. In September, they deployed to an Edgefield County, S.C., puppy mill and took a number of dogs back with them to recover and find new families.

“We are extremely honored to be named to this remarkable list,” said Bob Ramin, CEO of the Washington Animal Rescue League.  “Being named as a top ten emergency placement partner of the Humane Society of the United States puts the Washington Animal Rescue League in elite company, and we’re very proud that we have earned this distinction.  Our partners at HSUS do absolutely outstanding work and our partnership has resulted in hundreds of  animals rescued from desperate situations and eventually placed in permanent, forever homes here in the Washington, D.C. area.  We sincerely appreciate this recognition.”

After The HSUS removes animals from cruelty situations or natural disasters and provides them the veterinary and other care they need to recover, the organization works with Emergency Placement Partners to help in their long-term placement. As local groups with access to local resources, these organizations provide the animals with continued veterinary care, rehabilitation, and ultimately, placement in new homes. The HSUS has donated equipment for the shelters as a thank you for their dedication to helping rescued animals recover and find their forever homes.

The 2012 Top Ten Emergency Placement Partners include:

• Second Chance Animal Shelter, East Brookfield, Mass.
• Humane Society of Charlotte, Charlotte, N.C.
• Virginia Beach SPCA, Virginia Beach, Va.
• Dane County Humane Society, Madison, Wis.
• Montgomery Humane Society, Montgomery, Ala.
• Southern Pines Animal Shelter, Hattiesburg, Miss.
• SPCA Albrecht Center for Animal Welfare, Aiken, S.C.
• SPCA of Wake County, Garner, N.C.
• Humane Society of Berks County, Reading, Pa.
• Washington Animal Rescue League, Washington, D.C.

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Help Protect Maryland Dogs - Maryland Court Finds Pit Bulls are 'Inherently Dangerous' - This Decision Hurts Both People and Dogs

The following letter is from Wayne Pacelle, Humane Society of the United States.

Dear Friend,
As you may have heard, the Maryland Court of Appeals just issued an opinion declaring that all pit bull-type dogs are "inherently dangerous" potentially making owners, landlords, veterinarians, kennels, animal shelters, rescue groups, and anyone in custody of a dog automatically liable, regardless of whether they know a dog actually poses a threat. This decision hurts both people and dogs, and could force thousands of law-abiding dog owners to choose between their homes and their beloved pets.

Please call Governor O'Malley at 410-974-3901 to urge him to pass legislation to help overturn this breed-specific rule during the special session. And don't forget to send a follow-up message.

Sincerely,
Wayne Pacelle, President & CEO

Act Now


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My Tour of the Washington Animal Rescue League Facility & Book Signing for Wayne Pacelle, CEO & President, Humane Society of the United States

On July 18, 2011, my husband and I were guest at the Washington Animal Rescue League, in Washington, DC.

We were invited to attend their “First-Ever Speaker Series” event. This special evening featured Wayne Pacelle, CEO and President of the Humane Society of the United States, the nation’s largest animal protection organization.

We also planned to get a tour of the facility. Most people who adopt from an animal shelter never really get to see the full aspect of what really goes on behind the scenes in an animal shelter. Some shelters, however, do offer tours of their facilities to the public.

My husband and I arrive early for our tour of the facility. When I walked into the lobby, I was totally surprised at the beauty of the lobby. I guess I was surprised because I did not expect an animal shelter to look like this! The lobby was adorned with brick and beautiful oak wood, including a wood staircase leading to the upper floor. There were large paintings of cats and dogs on the walls, and as I looked up at the upper level, I noticed a lot of natural sunlight shinning through. If it wasn’t for all of the “happy barking” that I heard, I would not have known that I was in an animal shelter.

We were greeted by, Robert Blizard, Chief Development Officer, who works on all fundraising programs of the League with three additional members of the Development Office staff.

Mr. Blizard started our tour showing us their Medical Center. The Center was very clean, and setup just like a hospital unit. The staff wore gowns and mask. We entered a room where a feral cat was being either spayed or neutered (I don’t know if it was male or female) because the only thing visible was a small opening where the doctors were operating. I was warned by Mr. Blizard of what I would see, in case I was squeamish. Normally, I am, but realizing that they were helping animals, gave me no problems. This cat was one of the many feral cats that the League are spaying and neutering to help with the feral cat population in the communities.

Our next stop was outside to take a look at the League’s customized van for transporting animals to and from adoption events, and to bring animals to the shelter from puppy mill busts, and natural disaster sites. The van is also used for accepting dogs and cats from other shelters so they can be adopted at the League.

The van was purchased with donations given by several individuals and organizations. They include a $60,000 donation from Dr. Shari Barton, in honor of her beloved canine companion, Cassie, who’s cute picture can be seen on the van! Contributions also came from other League friends, including: Ms. Marie Burkart, Philip L. Graham Fund, Leonisis Foundation, Life 4 Animals Thrift Shop, Miller & Chevalier, Dr. & Mrs. Matthew A. Parker and Mr. Richard J. Perry, Jr.

After viewing the rescue van, Mr. Blizard suggested that we walk around the facility and take a look at the different areas. I immediately went to the big dog area, and from there to the little dog area, and the cat area appropriately called “Kitty City!” I was so excited, I think I spoke to every animal in the League!

Most of the animals had separate rooms…yes, I called them rooms because I did not see any cages. Some small dogs and cats had 2-3 to a room with plenty of room to run around. All of the rooms were equipped with nice flooring, dogie beds, blankets and toys! I was told that the floors are heated for the winter. They have water bowls that actually refill themselves! While standing in the dog area, I heard what sounded like soft water flowing. I stopped one of the staff and asked what it was. She told me that it was the waterfall that flows over the top of the ceilings of the rooms.

All of the animals looked well groomed to me. Some of the dogs would come to the door and jump up to see me, as I talked to them. Some were taking naps. I was so excited to see all of the animals, but sadden that they haven’t found forever homes yet. The one thing that I did notice was that there was no animal smell. I wondered how it was possible to have so many dogs in an area, and no smell. I did noticed staff wiping the glass doors and cleaning.

We ventured into “Kitty City”, where I saw some of the most beautiful cats and kittens. They too where in rooms…not cages. The area is so big that some were in rooms and others were allowed to walk freely around the big outside area. One cat saw me and jumped into a box, peeking out to see if I was looking! They had beds, scratching trees, high shelves, food/water bowls and toys. I saw a staff member sitting in one of the rooms cuddling a kitten, while two others chased each other around the room. She told me that all of the animals receive human touching to help get them ready for adoption.

It was getting close to 6:00 p.m., so we headed upstairs to the reception area. The first thing I noticed was the waterfall on either side of this wide long hallway. It was beautiful. I stood there for a few moments watching the water flowing and thought how soothing this must be to the animals. The reception tables were set with vegan cuisine. This was the first time that I had tasted vegan…and I like it! The reception was really nice, my husband and I met several guest, and we talked about animals of course, each showing pictures of our pets!

As it got closer to 7:00 p.m., we all went downstairs to take our seats for the featured guest speaker, Wayne Pacelle. He was here for a book signing for his new book, The Bond: Our Kinship with Animals, Our Call to Defend Them. His book examines our contradictory attitudes towards animals and points to a better way forward. Mr. Pacelle has helped to bring animal protection from the margins to the mainstream during his quarter century of work in the field, which includes 17 years at the Humane Society for the United States (HSUS).

"The Bond" has appeared on many best-seller lists, including The Washington Post, The New York Times and Los Angeles Times.

Mr. Pacelle, an excellent speaker, talked about the state of the Humane Society of the United States and took questions from the audience.

We were then led into the signing area for the book signing. Standing in line, I watched as he greeted each person with a smile and signed their book. Since I had my camera with me, I asked if I could take a picture with him, he smiled and said, yes. I handed my camera to someone in the line, who took our picture.

It was a pleasure meeting Wayne Pacelle, CEO and President of the Humane Society of the United States, at his book signing.

We really enjoyed our evening at the Washington Animal Rescue League. You can contact the League to schedule a tour of the facility, and see all the animals available for adoption. The League always has adoption events going on, and I will keep you posted. While the animals are being treated very well here…they still long for a forever home. If you have room in your heart and in your home, please come to these events, and consider adoption! Who knows…you may find your next best friend!

I met some new friends. Please look at their videos. They are all available for adoption!







Please take time to view the League's video below:


I would like to thank the Washington Animal Rescue League for a wonderful evening. May God bless you all, for what you do for these homeless animals.

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