Lassie was an unusual series in that the canine star did its own acting, with owner-trainer Rudd Weatherwax giving cues and providing on-air narration. The original Lassie {a male named Pal} took "about 15 whining and barking cues a week. He also pants with exquisite nuance, but cannot be depended upon to growl or snarl on cue" {Time} Animal imitator Earl Keen was thus on hand to fill in where Lassie failed to speak, and to play the roles of other dogs.
( John Dunning )
[ On the Air: The Encyclopedia ]
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