How to Hire a Trained Coyote for Film, TV, Commercials, or Events
Do you need a trained coyote for your film, TV show, commercial, or event? If so, you’re at the right place. Coyotes can bring authenticity to your project, but they require special care and expert handling.
In this post, I will talk about how to hire my trained coyotes, to use safely and legally. We’ll also cover why it’s so important to work with experienced animal trainers for all animals, but most important with wildlife like coyotes.
Let’s walk through what you need to know.
1. Always Hire a Licensed Animal Trainer
Coyotes are considered wildlife. Because of this, both state and federal governments regulate their use. You cannot simply rent a coyote without the proper paperwork.
A professional animal trainer should already have:
- A valid USDA exhibitor license
- State and federal wildlife permits
- Insurance coverage available
2. Experience Keeps Everyone Safe
Working with wild animals can be tricky. That’s why experience matters so much. It is important to hire a company/lead trainer or coordinator to make sure that the actions needed are realistic and safe
Experienced trainers prepare their animals to:
- Be more relaxed around cameras and lights
- Be more prepared for sudden noises and movement
- Respond to their trainers and follow verbal and hand cues
Inexperienced animals may become scared or can behave more unpredictably than trained prepared ones. To avoid issues on set, only work with animal actors that have been trained for professional settings.
3. Training Takes Time and Patience
Coyotes don’t learn behaviors in just a few days. It takes months—or even years—of training to prepare one for film or live work. Trainers need to build strong bonds and trust with coyotes, using gentle, reward-based methods to help the animal feel safe and confident.
Because training takes time, you should plan well in advance. If your project includes special actions, stunts or behaviors, the coyote may need extra prep time.
4. Book Early and Stay in Touch
Coyotes that are fully trained and legally permitted are rare. That’s why early booking is so important.
When you book early, you can:
- Review the script with the trainer
- Have zoom or in person meetings to discuss concerns and ways to safely shoot scenes
- Schedule prep and rehearsals (if needed)
- Arrange all legal permits and approvals
Clear, early communication makes everything easier and helps the animal perform better on the day of the shoot.
5. Keep Safety at the Center of Everything
Working with all animals-but especially wildlife means safety must always come first. A good trainer puts the animal’s comfort and safety above all else—while also protecting your cast and crew.
Here’s what a professional trainer will provide:
- On-site supervision at all times
- Clear safety rules for cast and crew
- A plan to prevent stress or overstimulation
- A calm environment for the animal between takes
When safety is a priority, everyone benefits. The animal works better, and your shoot goes smoothly.
6. Coyotes at Private Events: What’s Possible?
You might want to feature a trained coyote at a private event. This can work—but only in a controlled, safe setting. Public events or large crowds are usually not appropriate for most wildlife. However, we have two wonderful coyote ambassadors that have done live shows and worked in front of audiences!
Final Thoughts
Hiring a trained coyote can take your project to the next level. But it’s not something to do at the last minute. Wild animals require expert handling, legal paperwork, and lots of preparation.
By working with a licensed, professional trainer, you’ll ensure a safe, smooth experience—for both your team and the animal.https://benaysanimals.com/coyotes/
Here is a wonderful page with https://projectcoyote.org/some fantastic information on wild coyotes in the USA
And if you love coyotes as much as I do, read the book “Coyote America” written by Dan Flores for some fascinating information and history!