Over the years, animal handlers have provided a tremendous variety of animals that have held their own in films. Many of these animals are remembered and loved by millions of film goers all over the world. Film makers who want to include a pet in their story must contact animal handlers for movies to find the perfect cast members. These talented animals are able to take direction, hit their marks and act right alongside their human costars.

Film animal handlers have been responsible for many memorable scenes and performances in movies. Their services have been utilized many times over the years, such as in the following films.

1. Animal handlers for movie sets were called upon to train and wrangle the horses from Silver, in "The Lone Ranger," and Trigger, in the Roy Rogers films and TV shows.

2. It took a large number of movie animal handlers to manage the many types of animals in the film "Evan Almighty."

3. One of the larger animals used in films was Keiko, a whale that was one of the stars of "Free Willy."

4. Pig actors had starring roles in the television show "Green Acres" and the movie "Babe."

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find an animal handler that works on films

Animal handling is a tricky and ongoing job that should be left to a professional. The animals will respond to the cues and instructions that their handlers have taught them. Handlers will be able to get an animal to sit, walk, beg, play or follow almost any order on the set.

I recommend: Hire the animal stars you need from All Star Animals, Serengeti Ranch Co., Animal Actors International and Animals In Motion.

Hire dog handlers in movies

Canine animal handlers have helped the world discover some of the best known and loved dogs in cinematic history. Just a few of these dogs include Toto from 'The Wizard of Oz,' Lassie, Old Yeller, Benji and Otis from 'The Adventures of Milo and Otis.' Sometimes the dog is called upon to be the villain, such as the famous St. Bernard that portrayed Cujo.

I recommend: Contact professional dog handlers at Talented Animals, Dogs Unlimited and HollywoodPaws.

Work with feline animal handlers

Many cats have also made a big splash in the movies and television. Some of the well-known cats include Mr. Bigglesworth from 'Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery,' Morris the Cat from the 9 Lives commercials, Orion from 'Men In Black,' D.C. from 'That Darn Cat,' Catzilla from 'Mouse Hunt' and Milo from 'The Adventures of Milo and Otis.'

I recommend: Locate the felines and handlers you need from Hollywood Animals Inc., Bob Dunn's Animal Services and Talented Animals.

Peruse an animal handlers directory

Film makers may wish to look through a directory of film animal handlers to find a handler that is located in the area they will be shooting in. These directories will help your production company find just the right animal.

I recommend: Review a list of handlers at the websites AssistantDirectors.com or For the Love of Cats.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When hiring animal handlers for films, make the person is equipped to handle animals on a movie set.
• •  Hire the handler before you hire the animal. A strong handler can train any animal you select.