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PETA Protest Has John Rich's Fur Flying

Posted by amyclark on 08/19/2008
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11/26/2007 Stephen L. Betts   Big & Rich’s John Rich has agreed to wear faux fur coats after receiving an e-mail from PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals). Reportedly, the organization caught John's CMA Awards performance, during which he wore a floor-length fox coat. The organization received dozens of complaints from viewers who were disappointed to see John wearing fur, so PETA's Michelle Cho sent an e-mail to John on Nov. 16 satating: "Please know that animals killed for their fur endure immense suffering and that most fur comes from China, where there are no animal protection laws regulating how animals are treated on fur farms. A recent undercover investigation of Chinese fur farms revealed that workers swing raccoon dogs and foxes by their hind legs and slam their heads to the ground, injuring them but often leaving them conscious as they are skinned alive." She also asked John to view undercover footage of a fur-farm investigation that was narrated by clothing designer Stella McCartney (Paul's daughter). "I would like you to please forward my apologies to any of your members that are fans of Big and Rich that took offense to me wearing a fur coat on the CMA awards," John wrote PETA. "Trust me, it was never my intent to upset anyone. Also, if any of the world class designers that you mentioned in your previous e-mail would like to send me full length faux fur coats, I would be happy to wear them, and when asked by the press or fans, tell them it is a faux fur. "I do not agree with many of your organization's views or tactics, but I do respect your passion for animal rights, as I am an animal lover as well. I appreciate your willingness to address me on this subject."