Target: Felix Oeding-Erdel, President of Steiff North America
Goal: End the sale of mohair and protect goats from abusive practices that cause them suffering and death.
The mohair industry has been exposed as a realm of cruelty, violence, and unnecessary suffering, primarily at the hands of those who profit from it. Investigations revealed shocking accounts of mistreatment towards angora goats in South Africa, where shearers allegedly handle these animals with brutality—lifting them by their tails and breaking their spines, sitting on them when they struggle, and throwing them during the shearing process.
In the pursuit of profit, mohair producers are allegedly causing severe physical harm to goats. Shearers, paid by volume, rush through their work, reportedly resulting in bleeding and painful wounds on the goats, while young goat kids are subjected to their first shearing in a distressingly fearful manner. Reports indicate that these goats have their ears mutilated with pliers, inflicting intense pain that has prompted some to describe their screams as “terrible.” Ultimately, once deemed unprofitable, these goats face death far before their natural life expectancy, adding another layer of tragedy to their plight.
The momentum for change is growing, as demonstrated by major brands like FAO Schwarz, adidas, and Gap banning mohair in light of these atrocities. Now is the crucial moment for plush company Steiff to align with this ethical evolution and take a stand against the mohair industry’s abusive practices. The demand is clear: Steiff must cease the sale of mohair, thereby contributing to the protection of these animals from such harrowing treatment and joining the ranks of brands committed to animal welfare.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear President Oeding-Erdel,
Reports have emerged revealing alarming cruelty within the mohair industry. Investigations have shown shearers apparently engaging in shocking acts such as lifting goats by their tails, sitting on them when they struggle, and throwing them—a clear indication of a culture of violence and negligence towards these innocent animals. Furthermore, the process of shearing allegedly often results in the goats being cut and left bleeding, with some even enduring horrendous pain as their ears are mutilated with pliers. These practices are not isolated incidents, but part of a systematic neglect of animal welfare that must be addressed.
As concerned consumers and animal advocates, it is essential to urge Steiff to take immediate action in stopping the sale of mohair. By doing so, Steiff would join a growing list of brands rejecting animal cruelty and demonstrating a commitment to humane practices. It is a vital step toward encouraging more ethical treatment of animals and reflecting the values of consumers who prioritize compassion.
Therefore, we demand that Steiff cease all sales of mohair immediately to help protect these suffering animals from further mistreatment. Let’s unite in solidarity for the voiceless and ensure that no more goats endure the pain and violence that has been so widely reported.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
