The world of entertainment is constantly expanding, and every year it features not only new faces, but also… snouts, tails, and paws. Animals have long ceased to be just cute pets on camera — today they can become real stars, conquering screens and billboards around the world. Their path to fame, surprisingly, often begins not in film studios, but in exhibition halls. It is at such shows that agencies, directors, trainers, and even marketing specialists notice them, hunting for unique images.
Animals at Shows: More Than Just Competition
Major international animal shows, such as the World Dog Show or European Cat Show, have long served not only to assess breed standards. They have become a showcase of opportunities for representatives of the entertainment industry. Here one can find a cat with striking expressions, a dog with a perfect gait, or a ferret charming the public with its charisma. Participation in such events often opens doors to the advertising and film industries.
Agencies specializing in selecting animals for filming actively cooperate with show organizers. They are looking not only for breed standards, but also for character — an animal must be stress-resistant, friendly, and able to focus in crowded environments. All this can be tested specifically at a show, which is a rehearsal for a real set: crowds, cameras, flashes, commands.
The Criteria of a “Star” Animal
Just like people, animals have their own “acting abilities.” To get into a commercial or a movie, looks alone are not enough. A combination of factors is important: from obedience to the ability to be the center of attention. Resistance to irritants, calmness in public, and quick learning are the main traits that make an animal attractive to casting directors.
Today in Slovenia, interest in participating in international exhibitions is growing. More and more pet owners view this not as a hobby but as an investment in the future of the pet. And while in the past the goal was exclusively to obtain titles, now more and more participants are pursuing media success. While some animals shine on screen, others become heroes of social networks and advertising campaigns.
Interestingly, with the growing popularity of digital entertainment — from video games to online casinos — the demand for “emotional” and recognizable images in marketing has increased. Companies are increasingly turning to animal images to inspire trust and interest in their audience, which is clearly reflected on the website – slovenskecasino.net, where verified gaming platforms are presented with a wide selection of games from leading global providers.
Working with Agents and Trainers: How It Works
After a show, if a pet catches the attention of agents, the next stage begins — cooperation. The owner can sign a contract with an agency that will promote the animal: organize photo sessions, arrange casting calls, and select filming projects. Agencies often work with professional trainers who can prepare the animal for specific tasks — from simple commands to simulating complex actions on set.
This path requires patience. Not every animal immediately ends up in film or advertising. But having show experience, a photo and video portfolio, and recommendations from show organizers significantly increases the chances. In large Slovenian cities, such as Ljubljana or Maribor, specialized studios and agencies are already appearing, working exclusively with animal actors.
Successful Examples and Impact on the Industry
Examples of successful “casting” can also be found in Slovenia. For instance, one of the dogs that participated in a show in Celje later became the face of an advertising campaign for a local home appliance brand. Another cat — a breed winner at an international exhibition — became the hero of a video on a popular video hosting site, collecting millions of views. These stories inspire other owners and contribute to the growth of interest in the exhibition culture.
Equally important is that participation in shows can be beneficial for the animals themselves. They receive regular care, quality training, socialization, and medical supervision. And owners gain the opportunity not only to be proud of their pets but also to turn a hobby into a professional direction.
A Show as the First Step into a Big Industry
Thus, participation in a show is not only a test of compliance with standards but also an opportunity to open up a completely different path for the animal. The world of cinema, advertising, and digital media is more open than ever to unconventional solutions. An animal can become the face of a brand, the hero of a short film, or even a character in a virtual project.
It all starts with the first step — with the exhibition. It is here that the right connections can be made, the pet’s talents shown, and a career begun in an industry where the attention of viewers is increasingly drawn not to people, but to their four-legged companions. And who knows — maybe it will be your cat, rabbit, or parrot appearing next on a smartphone screen, bringing a smile to millions of viewers across Europe.