Does the AHA actually know if animals were harmed during the filming of you
When you see animals in ads, commercials, television shows, or movies, they may seem to be having a good time. But there is usually much more going on behind the scenes than meets the eye.
For animals, acting is strange and upsetting. Most people do not know that the chimpanzee “grin” so often seen in movies and on TV is actually a grimace of fear or a carefully choreographed response to a command.
The film industry often deceives filmgoers and television viewers with the American Humane Association’s (AHA) misleading “No animals were harmed” seal of approval, but the AHA does not monitor maternal separation, pre-production training sessions, or living conditions. Because that is where most of the abuse happens, having the AHA on set does not guarantee that no animals were harmed.
In order to force young chimpanzees to perform, trainers often beat them with their fists, clubs, or even broom handles. This systematic pattern of abuse and dominance causes the animals to be constantly anxious and fearful, always anticipating the next blow.
However, despite pressure from PETA and the many available alternatives, some companies continue to use live animals in their ad campaigns.
Fortunately, there are many companies going the compassionate route and leaving animals out of ads. This year alone, companies such as Harris Teeter, Gap Inc., Johnson & Johnson, Levi Strauss & Co., and ad agencies Young & Rubicam, Skadaddle Media, Arnold Worldwide, and the Ad Council have all pledged to leave great apes out of ads.
There is no reason to use live animals as actors when animation, blue screen, computer-generated imagery, and other advanced technologies can produce realistic substitutes. If you see a TV show, commercial, or film that uses animals in an improper way or portrays animals disrespectfully, please contact PETA.
