Remembrance Day is a time to honour Canada’s military; both Veterans and those currently serving. Many Canadians are acknowledged as heroes and many more paid the ultimate sacrifice by losing their lives in the effort to preserve our freedoms. Did you know that animals have always been a huge part of the military? Many Regimental units and services have kept animals as mascots and employed them in important military work, sometimes just for the purpose of boosting soldier morale. Previous Remembrance Day editions of this column have featured “Simon the Cat” who served aboard the HMS Amethyst and “Gander” the famous dog of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment. Here are some other animals that played an important role in the military.

Scout, was an Irish Terrier who served with the 1^st Royal Dragoons in the South African Boer War of 1899-1902. Born in Durban, Natal, Scout was a homeless dog who befriended disembarking British Soldiers on the 26^th Nov, 1899. Offering her food and friendship, Scout soon accompanied the troops when they left by train for an upcoming campaign. She was present at the famous Battle of Colenso and Spion Kop and accompanied the regiment on patrols and parades. She nearly lost her life on several occasions but assisted by barking furiously at Boer Guns across the river. One day, the troops were several miles travelled when they discovered Scout was missing. The Colonel ordered a search party back to find her. When the troops sailed for India in 1904, Scout accompanied them and was among the first to depart. She died in the summer of 1905 and her regiment mourned her loss for many years.

The Grenadier’s Cat was picked up in Bulgaria by the famous Black Watch Regiment. After the brutal battle of Alma, during the Crimean War of 1855, the Lieutenant Colonel of the Regiment asked to the whereabouts of the cat named “Bell”. A soldier had kept her safe in his haversack, helping her avoid both death and wounds. She became an inmate of the Regimental Hospital having found a quiet place to rest. The soldier who had kept her safe during the Battle was rewarded by the Lt.Col. by being exempt from all fatigue duties.

Tirah was a young donkey that befriended the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry in 1898. He was found hanging about the transport lines and was a likeable fellow who was very affectionate toward the troops. It was agreed that he would become part of the Battalion and two young boy buglers would be responsible for his care. On the train ride to India, it was clear the two young boys would have to sleep with Tirah on the floor in one of the compartments. Tirah was known to frisk about and kick all night due to the visions passing through his mind during his many dream episodes. He particularly enjoyed the canteen where he was given treats and beer to drink. As his appetite for liquor grew, he would stagger into the men’s sleeping quarters and proceed to “sleep it off” on the soldier’s beds.