Stop and think about your taxidermy business for a moment. What would happen if all of a sudden your customers’ skins were destroyed? African lion, leopard, elk, bear, red stag and the list goes on. Impossible you say? Well, you better think again! It can and does happen.
Would you be prepared?
Would you have the financial resources to replace any damaged or lost skins?
You can imagine a tornado, flood, or fire destroying your business. But do you ever think about the skins stored at your taxidermy shop in a box or crate for an extended period of time waiting to be shipped to a tannery? When taking inventory of the skins months later, what if you discover the skins have been eaten by moths or dermestid beetles?
Okay, you have my attention.
There are several ways to prevent these catastrophes, although none guarantee 100 percent protection. I’m sure by now the thought is racing through your head, “Are my skins safe and protected?”
You might be thinking that all of your skins are safe and in the freezer at your taxidermy business.
You might also be thinking your skins have been salted or being safely transported to the United States from a foreign country.
I’m safe, right?
So you think you’re out of the woods and safe, right?
Well, what about the skins you currently have at the tannery? Are they safe? Better yet, are your customers' expensive trophies covered by a comprehensive insurance policy in the event of a fire, flood, power failures, natural disaster --- or even pestilence?
I recommend you consider every precaution possible to ensure the safety of your customers’ trophies and to preserve your livelihood. Being a taxidermist / business owner, I know you are quite capable of reducing the risk while the skins are in your possession. But you also need to make sure the tannery or fur dressing company you are using is also protecting your shipments in every manner possible.
Do they have programs in place to control rats, mice, insects, power failures, floods and other potential problems that may put your customers' skins at risk?
Take action.
While all the above risks are important, consult your tannery to ensure they carry comprehensive insurance that covers any loss or damage to your skins. Some tanneries may have a disclaimer that protects them from such mishaps. Be sure you know what you are covered for. Do yourself a favor, contact your tannery and ask them, “Are my skins insured?”
The material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as business or legal advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, it is only an opinion. We do not make any representations as to its accuracy or completeness and as a result, there is no guarantee it is without errors.
Be a part of Fred's journey as he shares his hunting stories in pursuit of the Super Slam.
[…] Frank had a spot open for me, so I quickly paid my deposit and locked in my hunting dates. This would be a six-day hunt and take place in the month of January. All I had left to do […]