American Humane Association Statement Regarding AHA Film and Television Unit

American Humane Association
Friday, 9 February 2001

The American Humane Association (AHA) in the last four years alone has monitored the humane care and treatment of tens of thousands of animals that have appeared in almost 3,000 films, television shows, and commercials under AHA's jurisdiction. In that time there has been one fatal illness and two fatal accidents on thousands of sets monitored directly by AHA.

Internationally, outside of AHA's jurisdiction, a network of local humane organizations monitor many of the hundreds of American productions filming in their regions by utilizing AHA's Guidelines for the Safe Use of Animals in Filmed Media. In the last four years, these productions have experienced less than a dozen accidental animal fatalities.

This commendable safety record is the result of AHA's 60 years of advocacy on behalf of animal actors and the film industry's decision in 1980 to voluntarily grant AHA an official oversight role, and contrasts sharply from the days when wire-tripping horses and other cruelties were frequently found in filming.

Questions have been raised about whether AHA should condemn a few film projects when, despite implementing all the proper safety precautions and the oversight of a humane representative, a tragic accident has occurred. We disagree. Unfortunately, accidents do occur. AHA's job is to ensure that no deliberate cruelty occurs while filming and that proper safety precautions are in place. We work collaboratively with the film industry to achieve these goals and to see that the highest degree of safety and humane treatment is available. In fact, AHA guidelines are stricter than any federal or state regulations.

As a humane organization, it pains us greatly whenever an animal is injured – whether that be on a film set or elsewhere. When accidents do occur, whether or not the film is within AHA's jurisdiction -- such as films being shot overseas -- AHA conducts the most thorough investigation possible. The results of these investigations are always made public. American Humane Association publishes information about the work of its Film Unit on its website (www.AHAFilm.org), in AHA's publications, and in a variety of print and electronic media.

In regards to the allegations about mistreatment of animals on the sets of "13th Warrior" and "Running Free," both of these productions were filmed out of the United States. The animal action in these productions were monitored and approved by a local humane agency, not the American Humane Association. Based on reports from the local humane agencies, the animal action occurred with all proper safety precautions in place. In the case of "13th Warrior," AHA did not issue an end credit disclaimer that "no animals were harmed."

Also, AHA did not issue an end credit disclaimer stating "no animals were harmed" for the film "Simpatico" due to an accident that resulted in the death of a horse. The credit at the end of this film is unauthorized. In the case of "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman," AHA went to great lengths to have the horses in question examined by top veterinarians. The result of our investigation was based on these examinations and the veterinarians' assessment that the horses were fit for work.

The American Humane Association has been and remains confident that the Los Angeles operation and its leadership are fulfilling our mission to protect animals. Any allegations that this mission was compromised are neither valid nor justified. Under Gini Barrett's guidance, the AHA Film and Television Unit has dramatically increased and improved the safety of animals working in Hollywood. Animal actors currently receive a level of care that is unsurpassed.

It is unfortunate there are those who feel animals should not be used at all in films and television. However, Hollywood has a rich history of animal stories. Positive and important messages about animals in our society have reached millions of Americans through the exploits of such animal actors as Rin-Tin-Tin, Lassie, and Babe the pig. The American Humane Association is proud of its work with the film industry making sure these animal actors can tell their stories in a safe and humane environment.

For more information, or to contact American Humane Association, see their website at: www.americanhumane.org