“A Dog’s Purpose” was supposed to premiere this weekend, but the event has been cancelled in light of disturbing allegations of animal mistreatment.
In case you missed it, TMZ obtained video that showed a trainer forcing Hercules the German Shepherd into rushing water. The animal – one of at least five dogs used in the production – wanted no part of the situation. Once he was in, he was quickly submerged. That’s when someone yelled, “Cut it,” and the handlers rushed to him. Check out the video on the right.
Amblin Entertainment and Universal Pictures issued a statement saying that they didn’t want anything to overshadow the film that celebrates the relationship between animals and humans. They also said, “While we are all disheartened by the appearance of an animal in distress, everyone has assured us that Hercules the German Shepherd was not harmed throughout the filmmaking.” “A Dog’s Purpose” opens in theaters next Friday.
Source: People