An upcoming motion picture has received controversial feedback after TMZ released video from the set.
“A Dog’s Purpose,” based on the best-selling novel by W. Bruce Cameron, is being criticized by animal lovers after a video was leaked that shows an animal trainer forcing a terrified German shepherd dog into a pool of raging water. In the video, it appears as though the dog is trying to escape.
Later in the video, as the dog is struggling to swim through the raging waters, the animal disappears. As filmmakers rushed toward the area of the water that the dog went under, they were shouting “Cut it!”
Wednesday night, following an outcry across social media, the director of the film released his response on Twitter. Lass Hallstrom said that he did not witness the actions and that there would be a thorough investigation.
I am very disturbed by the video released today from the set of my film A dog’s purpose.— lasse hallstrom (@HallstromLasse) January 19, 2017
I did not witness these actions.
We were all committed to providing a loving and safe environment for all the animals in the film.— lasse hallstrom (@HallstromLasse) January 19, 2017
I have been promised that a thorough investigation into this situation is underway and that any wrongdoing will be reported and punished.— lasse hallstrom (@HallstromLasse) January 19, 2017
The Humane Society of Lollypop Farm released a statement to News 8 on Thursday, expressing their concerns over the video.
“Lollypop Farm, the Humane Society of Greater Rochester, is disheartened by the footage released showing a frightened dog being forced into turbulent waters during the filming of “A Dog’s Purpose.” We are glad to hear that the studios behind the movie and American Humane are investigating the incident.
Lollypop Farm encourages owners to recognize signs of fear in their pets and to avoid things that may cause them stress. We recommend using positive reinforcement-based techniques to build a loving and strong bond with your pet.”
