Animals in Film

The use of animals in film productions requires careful planning and additional safety precautions. Even well-trained animals can behave unpredictably when placed in unfamiliar environments, surrounded by lights, cameras, equipment, and large groups of people.

CalArts’ production insurance does not cover animals of any kind, including personal pets. Any production using an animal may be required to obtain separate insurance. Students planning to use animals in their productions should discuss their plans with Production Services as early as possible during pre-production.

Working with Animals on Set

Animals are living performers and should always be treated with patience, respect, and care. Their welfare must take priority over the needs of the production.

Whenever an animal is present on set:

• The animal handler or trainer should conduct a safety meeting with the cast and crew.
• Everyone working near the animal should understand the established safety procedures.
• Cast and crew should know who is responsible for the animal at all times.
• Emergency procedures should be discussed when appropriate.

Only essential personnel should remain near the animal during filming to minimize distractions and reduce stress.

Working Around Animals

Never assume that a friendly or domesticated animal will behave predictably on set. Cast and crew should:

• Never feed an animal without the handler’s permission.
• Never pet, touch, or play with an animal unless instructed to do so by the trainer.
• Never attempt to move, restrain, or direct an animal.
• Follow all instructions provided by the animal handler or trainer.
• Avoid sudden movements, loud noises, or unnecessary distractions around the animal.

The animal handler has the authority to stop filming whenever they believe conditions are unsafe for the animal or the production.

Student Responsibilities

Students must notify Production Services during pre-production whenever animals will be used in a production. Depending on the type of animal and filming conditions, additional insurance, permits, safety procedures, or professional animal handlers may be required before filming is approved.

Failure to disclose the use of animals before production may delay or prevent filming approval.

Professional Guidelines

Students are encouraged to review the American Humane Guidelines for the Safe Use of Animals in Filmed Entertainment, which provide industry best practices for the humane and safe treatment of animals during production.

American Humane

https://www.americanhumane.org

Guidelines for the Safe Use of Animals in Filmed Entertainment:
https://www.americanhumane.org/program/no-animals-were-harmed/

Animals should never be placed in situations that could cause injury, fear, unnecessary stress, or discomfort solely for the purpose of obtaining a shot.