We do not monitor any records that could potentially endanger or harm animals. This includes any records in which the animals would have to be put to greater stress to achieve a new record, such as endurance records, or records which include any level of danger for the animal. For all animal records, the animal must do the attempt without any physical contact with their owner/trainer. Any attempts that would require physical prompts from the owner/trainer are not allowed.
Sedation
Guinness World Records accepts measurements made while an animal is sedated for ‘longest tongue records’ ONLY if sedation is part of a standard medical procedure that has been recommended by a veterinary professional. Sedation of an animal for the sole purpose of record-breaking, or for any other record title will not be accepted.
Inbreeding
Inbreeding has historically been used to exaggerate extremes in animal conformation (body shape, structure, or appearance). This practice has led to the suffering of many animals, due to their extreme conformation, which compromises welfare. Promoting sensible breeding practices ensures we maintain the health of future generations and taking a welfare-focused approach helps to eliminate health problems associated with some breed/species standards. This ensures animals lead full and pain-free lives. Society, including brands such as Guinness World Records, must accept responsibility and promote improvements in breeding practices to protect animals from exploitation.
Cosmetic procedures on animals
Any record attempts involving animals, must show the animal with a completely natural appearance and animals must not wear any attire (clothing, jewellery, collars etc.) or have received any coat modifications (dying, painting etc.) beyond standard grooming. Guinness World Records hold the right to reject any claims made where an animal displays the following cosmetic alterations; ear cropping, taping & splinting, tail docking, debarking and declawing. Historical justifications (rescued animals, medical interventions, licenced working animals) can be given and verified by the attending veterinarian, but acceptance of an application is at the final discretion of Guinness World Records. Alterations made by a breeder before the purchase of an animal, or ‘breed standards’ will not be accepted as reasonable justification.
Fishing records
Guinness World Records recognises claims for ‘Heaviest fish caught’ retrospectively, within federated competitions, verified by the International Game Fish Association. Claims made outside of federated fishing competition will not be accepted, and Guinness World Records holds the right to reject any claims made without suitable verification or association rules and regulations.