The Truth Behind Animal Treatment During Game of Thrones Filming

Game of Thrones, one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed TV series of recent decades, has generated numerous discussions and debates. Among the many topics of conversation was the treatment of animals during the filming process. While the production team worked extensively with animal welfare organizations to ensure the safety and well-being of animal actors, including horses, concerns were raised about certain incidents that sparked public scrutiny.

Animal Welfare and Filming Practices

The production of Game of Thrones was no exception to the potential challenges associated with large-scale productions that involve animal actors. Recognizing the importance of animal welfare, the production team collaborated closely with the American Humane Association (AHA), a prominent organization that certifies that animals in films are treated humanely. The AHA monitored the filming on set and provided oversight to ensure that the animals were not exposed to unnecessary danger or distress.

Despite these efforts, there were instances where the well-being of the animals was called into question. For example, during the filming of a crucial battle scene in Season 1, a horse took a fall and subsequently died. This incident drew criticism and stimulated a broader debate about the safety protocols and the treatment of animals on set. The production team responded by emphasizing their commitment to animal welfare and implementing additional safety measures to prevent such tragedies.

Challenges and Misconceptions

Large-scale productions often face challenges related to animal welfare, as is evident from the experiences with other film and TV shows. The American Humane Association (AHA) is one of the watchdogs that ensure animals are not harmed during filming. However, the stamp of approval from organizations such as the AHA is often viewed as a mere fa?ade. Many believe that these organizations serve only to mask the true conditions on set and do little to prevent incidents involving animal harm.

The reality is that while there are rigorous standards and oversight, accidents can still occur. This was seen during the filming of several scenes where CGI was used extensively to depict action sequences that would be too dangerous for live animals. For instance, the scene where the hound is killed by having its head chopped off was likely done using CGI, and the horse scenes that appear to be creatures suffering in battle were also likely accomplished through visual effects.

However, some incidents cannot be avoided, such as when a real horse falls. To mitigate such risks, production teams now train horses to perform falls with safety in mind. This often involves having the horses stop and fall onto an area treated with sand and sawdust to cushion the impact. But the process is not without its challenges, as demonstrated by an incident involving actress Rachel Weisz. While she was filming a scene with a horse trained to perform a fall, an accidental over-tug of the reins caused the horse to fall directly onto her, spooking her and highlighting the risks involved.

Behind-the-Scenes: Animal Treatment

Another aspect of filming with animals that often goes unnoticed is the care given to them during off-camera moments. On set, animals, like their human counterparts, are provided with food services to maintain their health and energy levels. It is common for the actors to see the food served to the animals, and it is not always as appetizing as it appears. In fact, the animals in Game of Thrones enjoy a variety of dietary options, often including high-protein and high-quality feeds designed to keep them in top condition.

The production team goes to great lengths to ensure that the animals are well-cared for and that their safety is a top priority. Despite the challenges, these efforts are crucial in maintaining the integrity and reputation of the production. While incidents of animal harm cannot be entirely eliminated, the steps taken by the production team exemplify a commitment to responsible filmmaking.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the treatment of animals during the filming of Game of Thrones is a complex issue with both transparency and misconceptions. While the production team worked diligently with animal welfare organizations and implemented numerous safety measures, incidents still occurred, prompting public concern. The use of CGI to replace dangerous animal action scenes is one of the ways in which these challenges were addressed. Understanding the behind-the-scenes efforts to ensure animal welfare provides a more complete picture of the complex process of making such a stunning television series.