Every year in the United States, over a million mink suffer and perish in fur factory farms, living in conditions that are not only horrifically inhumane but also perilously conducive to disease spread. The Mink: Vectors for Infection Risk in the United States Act (“Mink VIRUS Act”) is the first step toward eradicating such practices, an initiative introduced by U.S. Rep. Adriano Espaillat (N.Y.) that seeks to prohibit mink farming on American soil.

The picture of mink farming is bleak. Minks are often crammed into wire cages, leading to disease spread, injuries, and physical deformities. These fur farms aren’t just breeding grounds for animal suffering but also potential hotspots for zoonotic diseases, which can be dangerous and even deadly to humans.

Despite some progress, with 12 U.S. municipalities banning the sale of new fur products and six states considering similar legislation, America trails behind Europe in phasing out fur farming. European nations have made significant strides in the last two decades, from stringent animal welfare regulations in Germany and Switzerland to complete bans in countries like France, Italy, and Ireland.

Yet, if the current trend continues, the U.S. could become the world’s second-largest fur producer, only surpassed by China. Such a development would be devastating, considering the immense suffering these fur farms inflict on animals and the potential public health risks they pose. Mink farms have already reported instances of mammal-to-mammal transmission of diseases like avian influenza and SARS-CoV-2, raising serious concerns about possible mutations and the emergence of new disease variants.

The Mink VIRUS Act is a timely response to these threats and an essential opportunity for the U.S. to take a stand against fur farming. With the fashion industry shifting toward more humane and eco-friendly alternatives, there’s no justification for maintaining an industry that relies on animal suffering and poses a significant risk to public health.

The time for action is now. Join the fight against the fur trade and contribute to a safer and more compassionate future. Reach out to your HSUS state director to learn how you can help end the sale of new fur products in your community. Also, contact your U.S. legislators and urge them to Support the Mink VIRUS Act. Together, we can relegate fur farming to where it truly belongs: the dustbin of history.

Fuk Fur Tee By Tiny Rescue: Animal Collection