"SNOW BUDDIES"

The newspaper where I work got this letter yesterday. Thought I'd pass it along.

February 5, 2008
Dear Editor: People who care about animals should bypass Disney’s straight-to-video movie Snow Buddies. Not only is the story line trite and stale, at least 25 puppy “actors” were removed from the set during filming when many of them fell ill. Three of the puppies had to be euthanized. These weeks-old puppies were taken from their nursing mothers to be used like disposable props. The producers of this movie exploited these babies specifically to target the lucrative children’s movie audience. Kids love puppies, but animals should not suffer and die so that studios can sell tickets. In addition, movies that use purebred dogs often cause people who see the film to impulsively run out and buy a dog of that breed. When the novelty quickly fades, animal shelters become flooded with dogs who were “stars” one day and inconveniences the next. Parents can use this opportunity to explain to their puppy-loving children what happens to the animals when a movie like Snow Buddies wraps.
Sincerely, Kristie PhelpsAnimals in Film, TV, and Advertising SpecialistPeople for the Ethical Treatment of Animals501 Front St.Norfolk, VA 23510757-763-0626 (cell)