The use of horses in film and television has a troubled welfare history, but improved oversight and guidelines have transformed industry standards in recent decades.
Horses used in film and television face welfare challenges including exposure to frightening stimuli like explosions, crowds, and unfamiliar equipment, physical demands of performing takes repeatedly, and the psychological stress of unfamiliar environments. Historical films used dangerous techniques including trip wires and chemical inducements that caused serious injuries and deaths. Modern productions with proper oversight have dramatically improved, but vigilance remains important. Horses deserve calm, patient training that prepares them for filming environments, adequate rest between takes, appropriate veterinary oversight, and protection from genuinely dangerous stunt work. Consumer awareness of welfare considerations in media production can drive industry accountability.