MEDIA RELEASE
RSPCA investigating celebrity rat killing
RSPCA NSW has received information about a rat, killed for human consumption,
during the filming of the reality television program 'I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of
Here'.
In NSW the
use of animals in films and theatrical productions can only occur in
accordance with the Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals in Films and
Theatrical Performances. The primary principle of the Code is that it is not acceptable
to intentionally endanger, abuse, injure or kill an animal as part of a production.
"TV series production staff must summit a notification form to the RSPCA or the
Animal Welfare League. But we received no pre-notice or advice that this segment
was going to occur –
it happened on a day that no animals were featuring in
production, so no RSPCA officers were present." said O'Shannessy.
While it is the case that animals are killed for human consumption, the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals Act mandates that in the preparation or process of destroying the
animal, the act must be carried out in a manner that inflicts no unnecessary pain
upon the animal. As a result of RSPCA NSW enquiries and the viewing of unedited
footage, RSPCA NSW alleges that the act of killing the rat was not
performed
humanely, or in a manner which inflicted no unnecessary distress or suffering.
"The concern is that this act was done purely for the cameras. The killing of a rat for
a performance is not acceptable," said David O'Shannessy, RSPCA NSW Chief
Inspector.
Two Field Court Attendance Notices have been served to the contestants involved.
RSPCA NSW investigations continue.
The RSPCA is a charity with objectives to:
Prevent cruelty to animals
Amend and develop legislation to protect animals
Provide education and training about the care, protection and treatment of
animals
Operate veterinary clinics to care for animals.
Media Contact:
Melinda McHugh, Acting RSPCA NSW Media Officer
E: mmchugh@rspcansw.org.au
M: 0413 622 020
RSPCA NSW
7 December 2009
For immediate release
NEWS 
