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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