Winter 96 Archeological digs provide evidence that prehistoric people used animal skins and fur for a variety of purposes. The great American fur traders played a major role in American history. As recently as thirty years ago, furs and feathers were the unquestioned height of fashion and high-class style. Today, the subject of animal fur stimulates strong emotional responses. Furriers like furs because they are profitable.
Many consumers love the beauty and luxurious feel of natural furs.
Due to the environmental movement, people have raised serious questions about the appropriateness of using animal skins. A major concern addresses the practice of killing animals in the wild for their furs. Many of the animals with the most beautiful coats are endangered. The importation of endangered animal skins has been banned but poaching and black market practices continue to place animals at risk. In an interview with Mr. Jerry Gronauer, owner of Sakowitz Furs in Houston, he stated that he sells many furs such as sable, mink, rabbit, fox, chinchilla, beaver, muskrat, lynx, and coyote.