In recent years, dog-friendly film screenings have emerged in the UK, gaining popularity particularly after pandemic restrictions were lifted. One such venue is the Greenwich Picturehouse in London, which hosts screenings designed for dog owners, allowing pets to join their humans during film viewings. These events primarily take place on Sunday mornings, coinciding with times when pet owners are likely to be out with their dogs.
Mike Miles, the deputy manager of the Picturehouse, explained that these events foster community by providing a space for owners and their pets to enjoy each other’s company. The setup generally includes unallocated seating and allows dogs on seats with provided blankets, as long as a considerate capacity limit is maintained.
The concept has attracted attention from various photographers and animal advocates. Irina Werning, a photographer from Argentina, noted that dog-friendly cinemas in the UK offer a unique experience for pet owners that is less common in other countries. While some cinemas limit dogs to the floor, Picturehouse locations allow them on seats, adding to the overall experience.
The structure of these screenings resembles “baby-friendly” sessions, with adaptations such as reduced volume and dimmed lighting, promoting a more relaxed atmosphere. These changes aim to make film-viewing accessible to more people, including those who might not otherwise attend.
Attendees often express their motivations for bringing dogs to the cinema. While some mention the community experience, others point to the financial aspect of using such venues instead of traditional pet care options. The environment is noted to be relatively calm, with most dogs behaving well throughout the screenings.
Overall, dog-friendly cinema sessions appear to provide a mix of entertainment and social interaction, raising questions about their long-term viability and impact on the cinema experience for both pets and their owners.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2025/aug/31/the-rise-of-dog-friendly-cinema-screenings-tim-dowling