1. Lassie
One of the most beloved animal shows of all time, Lassie followed the adventures of a loyal Collie who was always ready to save the day. Lassie’s bond with her human family and her incredible ability to help in tricky situations made this show a hit throughout the ’60s and ’70s.
2. Flipper
This classic show featured Flipper, a clever dolphin who lived in the Florida Keys with a park ranger and his two sons. Flipper would often save the day by rescuing people or solving mysteries in the water, making it a favorite among kids and families.
3. Mister Ed
Mister Ed was a comedy series about a talking horse who only spoke to his owner, Wilbur. The quirky and witty Mister Ed constantly got Wilbur into hilarious situations, creating one of the most memorable animal characters on TV.
4. Daktari
Set in Africa, Daktari followed Dr. Marsh Tracy, a veterinarian, and his family as they cared for wild animals. With stars like Clarence the cross-eyed lion and Judy the chimpanzee, the show brought the excitement of wildlife conservation into living rooms across the country.
5. Gentle Ben
This heartwarming show featured a young boy named Mark and his best friend, a 650-pound black bear named Ben. Set in the Florida Everglades, Gentle Ben showcased the unique bond between a boy and a bear, offering a mix of adventure and family-friendly fun.
6. The Beverly Hillbillies
While not exclusively an animal show, The Beverly Hillbillies featured plenty of pet antics from Ellie May, who had a collection of wild animals, including raccoons, bobcats, and chimpanzees. Her love for animals added a humorous touch to the sitcom’s zany adventures.
7. The Wonderful World of Disney
This long-running anthology series often featured episodes or segments about animals, from stories about loyal dogs to animated favorites like Bambi and The Jungle Book. Families tuned in regularly to see Disney’s take on animal adventures.
8. Rin Tin Tin
Although its heyday was in the 1950s, The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin was still beloved in reruns during the ’60s and ’70s. The show followed a heroic German Shepherd who helped his human companions solve problems and save lives in the Old West.
9. Born Free
Based on the true story of Joy and George Adamson, Born Free followed their journey raising a lioness named Elsa in the African wilderness. The series explored the challenges and beauty of raising a wild animal, touching hearts with its message of conservation.
10. The Waltons
While The Waltons wasn’t primarily about animals, the rural setting of this beloved family drama meant that pets and farm animals were a part of daily life. Livestock, dogs, and even the occasional wild animal made appearances, adding to the show’s authentic feel.
11. The Andy Griffith Show
Although not an animal show, The Andy Griffith Show featured several memorable animal moments, especially with Opie, Andy’s son. Opie’s love for animals, including a recurring dog and his fascination with the natural world, provided touching moments of childhood innocence.
12. That Darn Cat
This Disney movie turned TV staple starred a mischievous Siamese cat named DC who helps solve a kidnapping case. The blend of mystery and feline antics made it a fun, family-friendly film that aired often on television in the ’60s and ’70s.
13. The Brady Bunch
While not primarily about animals, The Brady Bunch often featured the family dog, Tiger, who appeared in several episodes. Tiger added some classic pet comedy to the show’s family dynamic, especially in episodes where the kids’ responsibility for their pet was put to the test.
14. Lancelot Link, Secret Chimp
A wacky and unusual show, Lancelot Link, Secret Chimp featured chimpanzees dressed as humans, acting out scenes as spies and secret agents. With talking chimps solving mysteries and stopping bad guys, it was one of the more outlandish animal-themed shows of the era.
15. Skippy the Bush Kangaroo
An Australian import that gained popularity in the U.S., Skippy the Bush Kangaroo featured a boy and his intelligent kangaroo Skippy, who often helped rescue people in trouble. This adventure show became a hit with kids, offering a unique animal star not often seen on American TV.
