How a shelter visit inspired a blockbuster superhero film about super-powered pets

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: When director Jared Stern volunteered at an animal shelter, he noticed older animals struggled to find homes. He wondered what would happen if these overlooked pets suddenly gained extraordinary abilities. This curiosity sparked the 2022 animated film DC League of Super-Pets, a story about shelter animals saving the Justice League.

The film originated from a 2012 pitch by Jared Stern, who drew inspiration from his time working in an animal shelter. He was officially hired to direct and write the project in July 2018. The production, handled by Animal Logic, utilized an animation style influenced by Art Deco architecture and the work of illustrator J.C. Leyendecker. It premiered in Los Angeles on July 13, 2022, and was released nationwide on July 29, 2022.

The plot centers on Krypto, Superman's Kryptonian Labrador, and Ace, a Boxer from a shelter. When Lex Luthor attempts to harness the power of orange kryptonite, a guinea pig named Lulu—a former test subject—accidentally grants superpowers to the shelter animals. Ace gains invulnerability and super strength, while other pets develop unique abilities like size-shifting, super speed, and electrokinesis. The narrative explores themes of loyalty and redemption as these unlikely heroes unite to rescue the captured Justice League.

The film features a star-studded voice cast, including Dwayne Johnson as Krypto, Kevin Hart as Ace, and Kate McKinnon as the antagonist Lulu. It grossed over $207 million worldwide against a $90 million budget, earning generally positive reviews. Notably, it was the final production from the Warner Animation Group before the studio label was folded into Warner Bros. Pictures Animation in 2023.

Beyond the central conflict, the film highlights the emotional backstories of the shelter pets. Ace, for instance, reveals he was abandoned after being misunderstood during a protective act involving a toddler. By the end of the story, the pets find new homes with members of the Justice League, forming their own superhero team. The film also includes post-credits nods to the broader DC universe, including an appearance by Black Adam.

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