The majority of furs taken from animals killed by
trappers are used in the trim trade. Otter, muskrat, raccoon,
lower-quality beaver skins, and many other furs are being used only in
"secondary" markets. These markets include the manufacturers of
fur-covered toys, hat linings, fly-tying and trim for parkas. Although
it is not confirmed, it is suspected that the felt that tops pool tables
is manufactured from ten to fifteen percent beaver fur.
Fur factory farming is declining in Russia. Only ten
years ago, 200 factory farms were in operation. Today, the number hovers
around thirty. Russian fur consumers are not looking for the
high-quality mink that is typically used in the US. They are looking for
fur that is of lower quality since it is being used mostly for trim.
Many of the fur coats sold in Russia are manufactured in China. The ABLE
International Company of Tianjin manufactures black dog fur overcoats
and markets them in China and Russia. The coats are popular because they
are inexpensive, durable, and not considered to be culturally offensive.
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