Diva dog gags aside, prior to that day, producers say rehearsals had ensured the dogs were comfortable with the water. Their explanation: the dog's discomfort and stress level were simply a result of the point of access being changed (my guess though: Hercules' trailer did not have his preferred brand of pupperoni, as per his rider that morning). In a statement released last week, Amblin Entertainment and distributor Universal Pictures said "on the day of the shoot, Hercules did not want to perform the stunt portrayed on the tape, so the Amblin production team did not proceed with filming that shot," adding, "Hercules is happy and healthy." They confirm "great care and concern" were taken with all five dogs used in the making of the film.
Peta a dogs purpose full#
The bad press has already forced a full cancellation of the film's LA premiere and all press junkets. Whether it's been just, however, may up for debate.
![peta a dogs purpose peta a dogs purpose](https://i.pinimg.com/originals/2c/e4/3c/2ce43c6935102649088a2f42c947cc87.jpg)
But, the outrage and outcry from animal groups has been swift. Dogs know that the only good water in the bathroom is in the toilet bowl. To be fair though, as a long-time dog owner and dog lover, I've also seen dogs more freaked out than this when it's bath time.
![peta a dogs purpose peta a dogs purpose](http://content.ksdk.com/photo/2017/01/18/DogCollage_1484787646386_7719927_ver1.0.jpg)
I'm reminded of being pushed into lakes as a child. In what some are calling 'disturbing mistreatment', Hercules, a trained German Shepherd, is seen being pushed into a tank of tumultuous water.
![peta a dogs purpose peta a dogs purpose](https://cdn.cnn.com/cnnnext/dam/assets/170119122208-dogs-purpose-german-shepard-2-super-169.jpg)
But, when video, shot on location in Winnipeg, surfaced of an animal actor being unwillingly forced into man-made rapids, producers were faced with something of a PR (AR? animal relations?) nightmare. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals are fervently demanding for a boycott of A Dog's Purpose, a film that was undoubtedly meant to be a dog-lovers dream. Say what you will about PETA, but they don't pussy foot.