The next step toward pet stardom is to find a good animal talent agency near you. You can search the Internet and the yellow pages, or even ask a local trainer or veterinarian. Call these agencies to see if they’d be interested in representing your pet. Explain any tricks that you dog can perform, detail any acting credits that he already has, and be sure to show them your photos and video. The agency should be able to connect your pet with some jobs. Keep in mind that auditions and performances may be made with little notice, so keep your pet well-groomed, healthy, and up-to-date on obedience and tricks. If your pet is chosen to represent a product, it’s advised that you make him familiar with the product beforehand.

When it comes to show business, whether for humans or animals, things can be highly competitive. With that said, be prepared for disappointments. Also keep in mind that some pets are just more inclined to ‘perform’. If your pet has to be forced to do tricks or perform without enjoying it, he just may not be cutout for show business.

A Few Celebrity Pets:

• Benji, the focus of several movies in the 1970’s and 1980’s. Benji was originally played by a dog named Higgins, and was later replaced by his offspring.
• Buck, the dog on Married with Children. He was played by a Briard named Mike.
• Duke, Jed’s hound dog on the Beverly Hillbillies, played by Stretch.
• Eddie, the Jack Russell Terrier on Frasier, played by Moose.
• Lassie, a Rough Collie who starred in many movies, television shows and books. Lassie was originally portrayed by a male dog named Pal, but ten of his direct descendents later played Lassie as well.
• Morris the Cat, the feline icon of the 9Lives cat food commercials, actually played over the years by four different cats, all rescued from shelters.
• Mr. Ed, played by a show horse owned by the president of the California Palomino Society.
• Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd and major Warner Brothers star who appeared in 29 motion pictures.
• Silver, the Lone Ranger’s faithful steed who appeared in more than 60 movies. His original name was Dusty.
• Storm, a German shepherd who appeared in many hit television shows including Adam 12, Bonanza, Ironsides, and Police Story.
• The Taco Bell Chihuahua, played by Gidget.
• Trigger, the horse ridden by Roy Rogers, who was featured in numerous movies and television segments. His real name was Golden Cloud.

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