Donated furs may comfort wildlife

Your old furs collecting dust in the closet or attic can help in the recovery of orphaned or injured wildlife. Wildlife rehabilitators use fur items as bedding and nesting material for the animals in their care. The furry blanket becomes a "surrogate mother" to the orphaned or injured animal, reducing stress and giving comfort.

The Humane Society of the United States accepts donations of all fur and fur-trimmed apparel, including shearling. Fur accessories including hats, gloves, scarves and muffs are also accepted. The HSUS sends all furs to wildlife rehabilitators and will send a letter thanking you for your donation, which should also be kept for your tax records.

"As urban and suburban development continue to intersect with wildlife habitat, we’ll continue to see injured and orphaned animals who will need care in order to survive. Wildlife rehabilitators find fur to be a great tool in accelerating the animal’s recovery," said Andrea Cimino, fur campaign coordinator for The HSUS. "Fur from coats and trim from accessories are cut to the right size and used to comfort animals such as chipmunks, raccoons and foxes."

The animals are often very stressed and anxious when first brought to a rehabilitator. Rehabilitators report that once they put fur pieces such as sleeves or hats into the nest boxes or cages, the animals snuggle right in and settle down.

There are many reasons why people donate their furs. Some people come to realize the inherent cruelty in making a fur coat or accessory. Others just inherit furs or are given fur products as gifts and want to get rid of them. In any circumstance, donating to wildlife rehabilitation is one way to give back to the animals.

To donate your item, package your fur in a sturdy box or padded envelope for small items and mail it to Fur-Free Century, The HSUS, 2100 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20037.

For more information on The HSUS’ fur donation program, visit the website at www.hsus.org/furdonation.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.