Slash demand – goats bred for mohair are slaughtered

YOUR article “Peta’s shocking video could ravage local mohair industry” (June 11) includes several misleading statements about Peta’s recent mohair exposé.

Mohair SA seems to portray the abuse that takes place as the acts of a few “bad apples”, they aren’t.

When animals are seen as nothing more than commodities to be turned into sweaters or blankets, rough handling and abuse will follow. Shearers are paid by volume so they’re driven to work quickly and carelessly.

It’s absurd to suggest that 800 000 goats will die as responsible companies cut ties with the industry. Goats bred for mohair are not retired to sanctuaries when they’ve outlived their usefulness – they’re slaughtered.

As demand for mohair decreases, fewer goats will be bred, and fewer will end up on the slaughter line.

Consumers can help by shunning mohair and other animal-derived materials and embracing sustainable vegan options that are available. Vice-president of International Campaigns, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta), Hong Kong