World-class animal talent for film, television and advertising

We deliver budget-friendly, safe, and ethical animal performances for productions worldwide, expertly trained, offering services for the film and television industry.

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We've worked with top brands across many industries.

Dark Horse Productions has supported some of the most well known businesses and brands across film, television, and advertising.

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Led by Adam Battaglia, Australia’s

only horse master with combined

qualifications in animal behaviour,

training, education, and zookeeping.

Dark Horse Productions offers unmatched expertise. Our 300-acre Southern Highlands facility, global logistics capability and industry-leading welfare standards set us apart.

Our services include master and animal trainers, wranglers, and horse stunt coordination. We provide script breakdowns for animal requirements, budget planning, and full horse and animal coordination.

Clients can access liberty, trick, and stunt horse hire, as well as livestock hire, carriages and wagons, saddlery, equipment, and props. We also offer transport, yarding, and housing, along with large livestock supply for productions of any scale.

More About us

Our Vision

Our vision is to elevate storytelling with authentic animal performances that inspire audiences everywhere.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide complete animal action solutions, balancing creativity, safety and welfare for productions of any scale.

Our industry impact in numbers

We've operated in the industry for 25 years, across over 500 productions, operating out of our 300 acre facility in the Southern Highlands of NSW.

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25

Years

We've been operating and contributing to the industry for 25 great years

300

Acres

We work out of a 300 acre facility to ensure the highest quality, that acts as a base for travel to any location worldwide.

500

Productions

We've delivered 500+ productions across film, TV, and advertising and live shows

What Our Clients Say

White horse on road with camera equiptment

Adam and Dark Horse Productions were the best horse trainers I've ever worked with.

Jeff Burrows

Director & Cinematographer
The Man from Snowy River

Adam is utterly professional. Making the seemingly impossible, possible. He has a complete understanding of what a director and a camera operator needs and has the time and patience to prepare and deliver it.

Dave Hart

Director
Vivid

The team’s positive reinforcement stood out. Adam adapted quickly on set while meeting every welfare commitment.

Jamie L.

Director at GreenLeaf

Complex horse stunts ran safely and ahead of schedule. Adam’s riders and safety team executed with precision.

Matt J.

Director at Media Group

The best in the business for a reason.

Everything you need to know about Dark Horse Productions

What types of animals do you work with?

We work with both domestic and exotic animals, from household pets like dogs and cats to horses, livestock, birds, and exotic species including big cats, primates, and reptiles. With over 25 years of experience, our team has trained and handled everything from insects to elephants. If you need a specific animal for your production, we can source it through our global network.

Do you provide horses and riders for period productions?

We certainly do. Our 300-acre property houses trained horses suitable for various periods and styles. We maintain an extensive collection of horse-drawn vehicles, period-appropriate saddlery, and props. Through our network, we can also provide experienced stunt riders, trick riders, and extras who can handle horses confidently on camera. We've supplied horses and riders for everything from historical dramas to modern westerns.

Do you work outside of Australia?

Yes! We regularly work on international productions and can source animals worldwide. Our team handles all the complex logistics including work visas, import/export permits, quarantine requirements, and transportation. We've successfully managed productions across multiple continents and can bring our expertise anywhere your project needs us.

Are your animals safe to work with actors and crew?

Absolutely. Safety is our top priority for both humans and animals on set. All our animals are professionally trained using positive reinforcement methods, and every team member holds professional animal training, zookeeping, or veterinary nursing certificates. We provide on-set supervision throughout filming and can supply additional safety officers when needed. We've worked safely with A-list talent and major productions for 25 years without incident.

What animal welfare standards do you follow?

We strictly adhere to all relevant state codes of practice for animals in film and television, including the NSW Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals in Films and Theatrical Performances. Our methods align with RSPCA guidelines and we work with productions seeking American Humane's "No Animals Were Harmed" certification. We're happy to provide documentation of our compliance and can arrange veterinary supervision when required.

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September 27, 2025

Industry Insights