SPCA encourages producers to consult with independent animal welfare advisors during the planning process to minimise risks to animal welfare. Where animals are present on sets, there should be an independent person with species-specific animal welfare experience on set at all times, tasked with ensuring the animal’s welfare needs are met throughout the production process.

Each animal's suitability for performing should be assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account their species, age, temperament, and life history. Animals should be properly assessed for suitability for the programme, supervised at all times, and have the choice of whether to participate.

SPCA opposes the use of wild animals or non-domesticated species in productions for human entertainment. The participation of domesticated animals for filming is only acceptable if the activity does not lead to suffering or other welfare compromise.

Where animals perform in films, television, advertisements, or theatre, they must not endure physical or psychological distress. Animals should only be used in entertainment where their needs are prioritised above those of the production and the audience. Animals used in productions may be subjected to intense auditory and visual stimulation during the programme, including but not limited to bright lights, the presence of an audience, and loud noises which can have negative impacts on their welfare.

SPCA advocates that animals involved in film, television, advertisements or theatre be handled and trained with low-stress, force-free methods.

Productions should avoid the use or promotion of training methods or devices which rely on fear or discomfort.

SPCA supports the portrayal of human-animal relationships and positive animal welfare on televisions, film, advertisements, and theatre productions.

The portrayal of positive interactions with animals can help people to develop an understanding of and empathy for animals. However, SPCA is also concerned that, when animals are used as entertainment, there is potential for these activities to objectify animals and undermine the development of empathy and responsible pet ownership. For example, positive portrayals of roaming animals or stimulating high demand for ownership of specific breeds or species without full consideration of their specific welfare needs.

SPCA supports the further reduction of animals in television, film, advertisements and theatre.

SPCA welcomes the increasing technological advances in computer-generated imagery and motion capture technologies that make redundant the requirement to involve animals in the creation of film and television productions.