A Brief History of Protecting Animals and Insects on Set: The American Humane Certification

When the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) first began, it did not include the protection of animals and insects on set as part of its rules. However, a significant milestone was achieved with the establishment of the American Humane certification in 1940, which has since become a cornerstone of ensuring the welfare of animals and insects in the entertainment industry. This article will delve into the history, the organization behind it, and the significance of this certification.

Understanding the American Humane Certification

The "No animals were harmed" screen credit is a prestigious certification granted by American Humane, a non-profit organization that focuses on promoting safety and well-being of animals. It is essential to note that this certification should not be confused with the Humane Society, which is a different organization with a different mission. Despite the initial confusion, many filmmakers and film enthusiasts have come to rely on this certification to ensure the protection of animals and insects during filming. American Humane plays a crucial role in ensuring that actors, animals, and all on-set participants are treated with respect and compassion.

The History of American Humane

American Humane was established in 1917 during the height of the first World War. Its initial focus was on documenting war atrocities involving civilians and horses. Over the years, American Humane has grown into a powerhouse of animal welfare, with a mission to protect the welfare of animals and promote safety on set. In 2014, the organization permanently separated from American Humane Association and became known as American Humane, taking over the mission that was originally created at the direction of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

The Development of the Certification Process

Within the entertainment industry, the "No animals were harmed" screen credit has become an increasingly popular and necessary part of the process. This development can be attributed to the work of American Humane, which began providing on-set protection for animals as early as 1940. The certification process is rigorous and involves a team of trained specialists who observe and document the behavior of animals and insects during filming. This ensures that all animals are treated humanely and that no harm is caused to them.

The certification process includes the following steps:

Pre-production review: Trained specialists review the script and production plans to ensure that animal welfare and safety measures are in place. Daily supervision: American Humane assigns a designated representative to oversee the animals during filming, ensuring that they are treated humanely and that no harm is caused. On-set monitoring: The supervision team monitors the animals' behavior and activities to ensure that they remain safe and content. Post-production evaluation: After filming, the team evaluates the behavior and safety of the animals, providing feedback to the production team.

The "No animals were harmed" screen credit is a powerful tool for filmmakers, as it helps to build trust with audiences who are increasingly concerned with the welfare of animals. The certification not only protects the animals and insects but also enhances the reputation of the production and the filmmakers involved, as it demonstrates a commitment to ethical and compassionate filmmaking.

The Influence of American Humane on the Entertainment Industry

American Humane has had a significant impact on the way animals are treated in the entertainment industry. Since its inception, the organization has served as a pioneer in the establishment of animal welfare standards, working with filmmakers, film studios, and production companies to ensure that all animals are treated with respect and care during filming. The certification process has become a benchmark that filmmakers strive to meet, and many have gone above and beyond to ensure that the animals on set are treated ethically and responsibly.

The organization actively promotes the use of humane alternatives to live animals, such as computer-generated imagery (CGI), where possible. This approach not only protects the animals but also saves time and money, as it eliminates the need for on-set supervision and monitoring. American Humane also offers training and resources to filmmakers to help them understand and implement animal welfare standards on set, further ensuring the protection of animals.

Conclusion: The Significance of Protecting Animals and Insects on Set

The "No animals were harmed" screen credit has become an essential aspect of ethical and responsible filmmaking, highlighting the commitment to animal welfare and safety. The work of American Humane has been instrumental in establishing the industry standards for the protection of animals and insects, and their certification process continues to evolve to better meet the needs of filmmakers and animals alike.

As the entertainment industry continues to grow and evolve, the importance of animal welfare will become even more critical. American Humane's efforts to protect animals and insects on set serve as a model for responsible and compassionate filmmaking, ensuring that the next generation of filmmakers continues to prioritize the well-being of all creatures involved.