Or, how to keep your theatre from going to the dogs

Sooner or later, your theatre will come upon a play that you want to produce, but it requires an animal, or even animals onstage for some scenes.  Bell, Book and Candle's Pyewacket, Annie's Sandy and of course, The Wizard of Oz' Toto, are three that spring to mind.  While these animals are essential, they also pose some special issues for actors and directors.  While the goal is to get the best performance possible from an animal actor,  the safety and well-being of the animal as well as cast members is extremely important.  A happy, un-fearful creature is almost always a better performer.  But it takes time, planning and some basic rules to get the dog or cat (or other animal) to this point.  The Geeks discuss their experiences and advice and invite you to send us your own.