When filming on location, it is possible that pets will be present, whether this be dogs, cats, birds etc. However, animals can cause injury, by bites, scratches, stings, kicking or crushing; infection or infestation from micro-organisms or parasites they carry; allergy, in some people. Some people also have phobias about particular kinds of animals – such as large dogs or snakes.

Legal Requirements

The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 (enforced by the Local Authority) requires persons keeping specified animals to hold a licence. If an animal covered by the Dangerous Wild Animals Act is used under the control of the production, it must be accompanied by its keeper and licence.

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 is the principal animal welfare legislation. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, powers exist for secondary legislation and codes of practice to be made to promote the welfare of animals. The government is considering a number of specific issues including updating or bringing in new regulations or codes. Until such new provisions are made, existing laws will continue to apply.

The Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018

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Shooting Abroad? International Advice

Specialist: David Milligan

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Dave is a Mechanical Engineer by trade and prior to joining First Option in 2011, he had a lengthy career at the BBC; first as a technician at BBC Birmingham, and then almost 20 years as a safety adviser to the full range of productions. He also represented the BBC on the Joint Industry Stunt Committee.

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Article last updated on Sep 18th, 2024

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