There’s a pretty important day coming up. June 19th is Pets In Film Day! Our animal companions really do shine in the movies. Watching our furry friends on the big screen is also great for kids, as it helps teach them empathy and kindness to animals, while still keeping them entertained. In honor of this special day, a Burlington, ON vet lists some of the most famous doggy actors below.

Rin Tin Tin

Rin Tin Tin was one of the first furry movie stars. Originally rescued from a World War l battlefield, the German Shepherd starred in 27 movies. His descendants also had film careers, though they weren’t as successful. Although Rin Tin Tin has been gone a long time – the pup passed in 1932—his legacy lives on. The most recent Rin Tin Tin movie was the 2007 children’s movie Finding Rin Tin Tin.

Benji

Benji has been helping his humans overcome various problems since 1974. The lovable mutt has been the focus of several movies, and somehow got cuter in each one. The original Benji, a rescue dog, was a mix of cocker spaniel, schnauzer and poodle. However, the role has been played by several pooches, including the daughter of the original Benji. The last Benji movie was a 2018 reboot helmed by the son of Benji’s original creator. True to form, that Benji was found abandoned in a grocery store parking lot. Talk about rags to riches!

Lassie

We can’t really mention pets in film without mentioning the beloved Rough Collie, Lassie, best known for alerting her humans about little Timmy having fallen down a well (again). Originally ‘born’ in a short story by Eric Knight, Lassie went on to star in several films, as well as books, video games, and animated work. However, the pooch—who has been played by several very good boys (and one girl)—was best known for starring in the TV series, which ran from 1954 to 1973.

Toto

Arguably the most famous film pup ever, Toto was one of the biggest stars of the classic The Wizard Of Oz. Played by a Cairn Terrier named Terry, the pooch faithfully stayed by Dorothy’s side as they navigated the Yellow Brick Road. (Fun fact: actress Judy Garland actually wanted to adopt Terry, but the pup’s owner wouldn’t relinquish ownership.) Contact us, your Burlington, ON animal clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!