Putting on the Dog: The Animal Origins of What We Wear

Putting on the Dog is a book by Melissa Kwasny that explores the relationship between humans and animals that provide us with clothing, including leather, wool, silk, feathers, pearls, and fur. It offers firsthand accounts of traditions and manufacturing methods and considers animal welfare, worker safety, environmental health, product accountability, and respect for indigenous knowledge and practice. It demonstrates how what we choose to wear represents one of our most profound engagements with the natural world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2022
Publisher: Trinity University Press,U.S.

In her captivating book, "Putting on the Dog," Melissa Kwasny delves into the intricate and enduring bond between humans and the animals that have bestowed upon us the precious materials that shape our fashion: leather, wool, silk, feathers, pearls, and fur. Kwasny takes us on a journey across continents, from the silkworm plantations in Japan to the mink farms nestled along the western coast of Denmark, and even to the pearl beds in the enchanting Sea of Cortés. Through firsthand accounts and detailed descriptions, she unveils the rich traditions and manufacturing methods that have evolved from ancient times to the modern era, showcasing the awe-inspiring marvels and miracles of the clothing we wear.

What emerges from this captivating exploration is a fresh perspective on the cultural history of fashion. Kwasny travels the globe, seeking out both large-scale industrial manufacturers and community-based, often subsistence production by individuals who have dedicated their lives to working with animals. From farmers and ranchers to tanners and weavers, she examines the historical rates of consumption and the ongoing efforts to embrace sustainability, all while considering the welfare of animals, the safety of workers, the preservation of environmental health, product accountability, and the importance of respecting indigenous knowledge and practices.

At the core of "Putting on the Dog," Kwasny demonstrates how our choices of clothing represent one of our most profound engagements with the natural world. She invites us to reflect on the materials we select, the processes we employ, and the impact we have on the environment and the lives of those involved in the fashion industry. Through her insightful and thought-provoking narrative, Kwasny encourages us to embrace a more mindful and responsible approach to fashion, one that balances our desires for style and aesthetics with our commitment to the well-being of all living beings and the preservation of our planet.

In conclusion, "Putting on the Dog" is a must-read for anyone interested in fashion, culture, and the profound connections between humans and the natural world. With her captivating storytelling and insightful analysis, Melissa Kwasny offers us a fresh perspective on the history, traditions, and ethical considerations of fashion, inspiring us to embrace a more sustainable and compassionate approach to the industry.

Dimension: 222 x 146 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781595349705