In an effort to avoid additional controversy, the premiere of A Dog's Purpose has been canceled.
Earlier this week, TMZ released video footage showing one of the dogs in the film being forced into a pool of water. The disturbing footage shows the dog clinging to the side of the pool, trying to resist going into the water but the handler shoves the German Shepard in anyway.
The video went viral as did the comments by actor Josh Gad, who is the voice of the dogs in the movie. Gad posted an open letter on Facebook to share his dismay about the mistreatment of the canine as well as a public request for an explanation.
Director Lasse Hallstrom has taken to Twitter to reach fans, stating, "We were all committed to providing a loving, respectful and safe environment for all the animals in the film." His additional posts indicate that he was not present at the time of the incident, but that there is an investigation underway.
It is because of the ongoing investigation that Amblin Entertainment decided to cancel the premiere, according to a statement made to the Hollywood Reporter. The wide release of the film in theaters is still scheduled for Jan. 27.