ANIMAL INFLUENCERS, WHAT ARE THE LIMITS TO USE DOGS CATS AND NAC’S
Fashion phenomenon or race to make money, more and more individuals in France and around the world are using their pets to become influencers on the web and social networks. Some animal influencers have become social media stars who can amass millions of followers across various platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Statistically, internet posts that feature pets or wild animals generate more visitors and engagement than web posts with humans, up to 6 times higher depending on the channel or platform. For reasons, domestic or wild animals, through their cute, funny, original and endearing character, arouse positive emotions among the general public.
Influencer dogs or influencer cats are so popular on the internet and social networks that they are monetized. Depending on the number of visitors or views, the platforms concerned finance the publication reporters who are also paid by several brands who sponsor and carry out product placements within the publications produced.
The financial gains of influencer animal owners are multiple and can be substantial, which encourages the use of dogs, cats, and wild animals for financial purposes. Moreover, several influencers using a pet or wild animal have been convicted of animal abuse. The excesses and mistreatment of animals are such that, since May 2023, a new law has been legislated to prohibit the use of wild animals by influencers if they do not hold them legally, risking up to 2 years in prison and a fine of 300,000 euros.
The lure of influencers spreading animal publications should encourage Internet users to ban these business-driven influencers by stopping watching these animal videos and photos. There are already enough animal bloopers on every TV channel.
Owning a pet imposes certain rules of conduct, including respect for animals. Animals are neither toys nor improvisational circuses to be promoted.