Happy and Healthy: Best Practices for Animal Care on Film Sets

Animal performers have captivated audiences for generations, from Lassie’s heroics to the charisma of Flipper. Whether they play a starring role or appear as part of the background, animals contribute significantly to storytelling. However, ensuring their safety and well-being on set is crucial. Productions must adhere to strict regulations, work with professional trainers, and foster an environment that prioritizes ethical treatment.

Preparing for Filming With Animals

Proper preparation is key to the safe and effective use of animals on set. This includes assessing the suitability of specific species, ensuring appropriate training, and planning accommodations that minimize stress. Every animal performer, regardless of size or species, deserves expert care and consideration.

Animals in the Background

If animals are included purely for atmosphere—such as birds in a park—producers typically only need to ensure their presence does not cause harm or stress.According to an article in Live Journal, ensuring the well-being and ethical treatment of animals in film production is an additional, distinct challenge.  Authorities should be notified in advance, and any potential issues must be addressed promptly.

Featured Animal Performers

For animals actively involved in scenes, producers must consult professional animal supervisors or trainers before filming. Key considerations include:

• The type and number of animals required
• Their age, sex, and availability
• The time needed for acclimation and training
• Special care requirements
• Potential risks and solutions
• Budget implications

All animals should be trained and supervised by licensed professionals.  According to YLO, “The company must ensure that they have hired an appropriately licenced animal trainer and that they have an animal welfare inspector present who can monitor the use of the animals on behalf of the LO. production companies have a legal obligation to hire certified trainers and have an animal welfare inspector on set to monitor the treatment of animals.

Working With Local Wildlife

If a production involves native wildlife or could impact the surrounding environment, producers must consult organizations like the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Compliance with regulations ensures ethical and legal responsibility toward local ecosystems.

The Role of Animal Safety Experts

Hiring an animal safety consultant is not just a precaution—it’s an industry best practice. These specialists possess a deep understanding of animal behavior, psychology, and on-set conditions. Their expertise allows them to:

• Anticipate and mitigate potential risks
• Ensure humane treatment
• Assist with crisis management
• Adapt filming conditions for animal safety

A consultant’s presence is particularly vital in complex scenes that involve movement, stunts, or multiple animals. Their insights help balance the needs of production while maintaining the highest standards of animal welfare.

What Producers Should Expect From Animal Safety Consultants

Before filming begins, producers must provide consultants with a script detailing scenes involving animals. This helps determine the level of action required, whether it’s a simple shot of a cat lounging on a sofa or a high-intensity western featuring galloping horses.

Consultants also verify that proper welfare protocols are in place, ensuring that animals receive ethical care throughout production. The APA mandates that animal safety experts be present for all scenes involving animals, reinforcing their critical role in upholding welfare standards.

When Is a Veterinarian Required on Set?

While trainers and handlers usually suffice for most filming scenarios, veterinarians are essential in higher-risk situations. A vet must be present if animals face potential distress or injury, such as:

• Fast-paced action scenes
• Large groups of animals
• Harsh terrain or extreme weather
• Smoke, fire, or other special effects
• Pregnant, very young, or elderly animals

Veterinarians must remain on set during all activities involving animals and provide immediate medical care if necessary.

When a Veterinarian Is Not Required

If the production environment poses minimal risk, a veterinarian does not need to be physically present, but they should be available for emergencies. A licensed trainer or handler should oversee the animals in these cases.

Veterinary Authority on Set

Veterinarians have the authority to halt production if they believe an animal’s welfare is at risk. If an animal owner cannot contact their personal vet, the production’s designated veterinarian assumes responsibility for necessary treatment. Producers must cover veterinary expenses without this being considered an admission of liability.

Medication and Animal Treatment on Set

Administering sedatives or performance-enhancing drugs to animals is strictly prohibited. Only medications prescribed by a veterinarian are allowed, ensuring that no substances are used to alter an animal’s behavior unethically.

Proper Handling and Transportation of Animals

Caring for animals on set goes beyond filming. Best practices for handling and transportation include:

• Providing adequate food and water
• Ensuring clean, comfortable housing
• Offering regular exercise for confined animals
• Isolating ill or distressed animals and seeking veterinary attention
• Allowing proper acclimation time for unfamiliar settings

Animals must be given time to adjust to both the environment and human actors to ensure a smooth and stress-free performance.

Encouraging Positive Animal Interactions

To prevent fear, aggression, or distress, incompatible animals should be kept apart. Dangerous or territorial animals require secure containment, and equipment for handling them must be readily available. However, any tools used should avoid causing pain or discomfort.

Conclusion: Ethical Animal Treatment in the Film Industry

Animal performers play an invaluable role in film and television, and their welfare must always be a top priority. By following ethical guidelines, hiring trained professionals, and ensuring humane conditions, productions can create compelling stories while treating animals with the dignity and care they deserve.