In response to concerns raised by an animal welfare group, two theater companies in southwestern Ontario have chosen to donate their old fur clothing from their costume collections for animal rehabilitation purposes.
Recently, the Palace Theatre in London revealed intentions for a sudden sale of fur items. Initially, the theater group saw this sale as a means to repurpose the old fur clothing they no longer needed for their performances.
The announcement stated that the majority of these furs were inherited from estates where family members were unsure what to do with their mothers’ fur coats. Selling these vintage coats, ranging from 35 to 70 years old, was seen as a sustainable way to reduce waste.
Upon receiving this notice, Jenny McQueen, co-founder of Animal Rights Toronto, expressed opposition to the fur sale, resale, and reuse practices.
The debate surrounding fur usage remains complex in Canada. While some see a resurgence in vintage fur and its significance for Indigenous communities, McQueen and others advocate for a complete cessation of fur use.
In efforts to prevent the normalization and popularity of fur, McQueen’s #ZipOffTheCruelty campaign encourages individuals to donate their old fur items to her organization. These garments, including coats, hats, and trim pieces, are then passed on to animal rehabilitation facilities for bedding purposes.
By showcasing a video of baby squirrels snuggling into a fur hat donated by her group, McQueen persuaded The Palace to donate the furs instead of selling them. The video depicted orphaned squirrels finding comfort in the fur, replicating the warmth and security provided by their mothers.
Furthermore, McQueen has donated fox coats to Procyon Wildlife, a wildlife rehabilitation center in Beeton, Ontario. While fur may have a limited lifespan as bedding due to washing constraints, it proves beneficial for orphaned baby animals seeking comfort and familiarity.
Despite varying opinions within the animal rehabilitation community, some individuals, like Brian Salt of Salthaven Wildlife Rehab and Education Centre, have ceased using fur in bedding due to concerns about potential chemical treatments and cleaning challenges.
The Stratford Festival theatre also donated multiple fur coats to Animal Rights Toronto, acknowledging the limitations in storing and maintaining these items for future use in costumes.
Overall, the decision to donate old fur clothing for animal rehabilitation purposes reflects a shift towards more sustainable and compassionate practices within the theater industry.
