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Farming regulations

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Farming regulations

Fur farming is well regulated and operates within the highest standards of care.

In the European Union, Council Directive 98/58 sets down rules covering the welfare of all farmed animals, including fur farmed animals. Directive 93/119 deals with the slaughter and killing of fur and other farmed animals. Additionally, the Council of Europe adopted a Recommendation, revised in 1999, designed to ensure the health and welfare of farmed fur animals. The Recommendation deals comprehensively with matters of animal care, from the farming environment to stockmanship and inspection. Its requirements have been included in the European Fur Breeders' Association (EFBA) Code of Practice. The Recommendation is legally binding in Germany, has been incorporated into national law in Finland and Norway and is expected to be national law in Denmark shortly. In addition, fur farming is covered by the same EU environmental laws that apply to all EU agricultural sectors.

In North America, fur farmers also follow strict Codes of Practice and conform to provincial, state or national animal welfare and other regulations. Regular veterinary checks are carried out in accordance with industry guidelines, provincial, state or national requirements. In the United States, a Merit Award programme has been introduced by the fur sector in consultation with veterinarians, animal scientists, wildlife biologists and farmers. The Award covers standards for the humane production of fur bearing animals and is achieved only after an independent inspection of the farm.

In Russia fur farming is covered by agricultural and company legislation, as well as specific laws on fur animal breeding.

Many producer countries have national authority or self-regulated industry inspection and reporting schemes, involving veterinary or other official scrutiny. For example, in Norway, a scheme is in place that involves 30 inspection groups who travel round the country visiting fur farmers. A veterinarian is assigned to each group. Conditions on farms are thoroughly checked and advice on improvements given when required.

At a European level, a monitoring programme has been introduced by the European Fur Breedersí Association and International Fur Trade Federation. Launched in 1999, fur farms in Germany, Ireland, Italy and Spain have been checked and advised on the requirements of the Council of Europe.