Welfare of Animals Used in Film and Television

Animals used in film and television production face welfare risks during training and on-set conditions. Industry oversight and certification programs have improved but significant gaps remain.

Key Facts

The American Humane Association certification has been criticized for gaps in monitoring scope and enforcement
Several high-profile films have faced animal welfare investigations including Ben-Hur and Milo and Otis
CGI and animatronic technology has reduced but not eliminated the use of live animals in major productions
On-set animal welfare monitors may be present only during filming, not during preparation and training
International productions often fall outside US or European welfare certification requirements

Welfare Considerations

Animal welfare in entertainment production requires oversight across the entire production process including training, transport, holding, filming, and retirement rather than just on-set filming time. Training methods used to achieve animal performances have often involved aversive conditioning outside the view of on-set monitors. The growth of CGI alternatives reduces the necessity of live animal use, and productions that choose live animals for scenes achievable digitally carry increasing welfare justification burden.

What You Can Do

Support productions that avoid live animal use when CGI alternatives are available
Research the track record of productions on animal welfare before attending or supporting them
Advocate for third-party monitoring standards that cover training and holding as well as filming
Donate to organizations working on improved entertainment animal welfare standards
Celebrate and publicize productions that achieve high animal welfare standards as models for the industry