During the “Dog Days of Summer,” we examined America’ stories through its dogs. You’ll be amazed by stories about the dogs of 9-11, the first seeing eye dog in the U.S., and how the K-9 corps of World War II was made up of people’s pets.
Welcome to America Comes Alive!, a site I created to share little-known stories of America’s past.
These stories are about Americans—people just like you—who have made a difference and changed the course of history. Look around the site and find what inspires you.
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How Dalmatians Became Known As Firehouse Dogs
I am preparing my list for this year’s Dog Days of Summer, and in going through last year’s posts, I thought this one bears repeating… We all associate Dalmatians with firehouses. (And if you’d like to receive the dog stories by email, check off “American Dogs” in the box on the right. The series starts in July.) Here’s why:
The Dalmatian is described as a strong, active dog capable of great endurance and considerable speed. When we look back at their history it is clear that they have been well-suited for many jobs for which they were used, including as a firehouse dog.
These handsome, short-haired dogs have always been working dogs. They have served as sentinels along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea, protecting the borders of Dalmatia and Croatia; they have been used as shepherds and hunting dogs, and their strength has permitted them to be used pulling wagons or carts.
Their use with horses goes back to the early days of coach travel in Europe. It is said that the aristocrats who rode in coaches during the 18th century had seen the regal black-and-white dogs and thought they were a good addition to their retinue.
As a breed, the Dalmatian soon demonstrated an affinity for being with horses. They were happy running alongside them, or bedding down in the horse stalls at night–horse and dog seemed well-suited to each other.
Coach drivers came to appreciate the dogs for their protective qualities. If a coach driver wanted a good night’s sleep without worrying about theft of his horses, he could leave a Dalmatian on guard in the stable.
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Benji, Shelter Dog Turned Movie Star
The lovable mixed-breed dog that was to become Benji was discovered in 1960 by veteran Hollywood animal trainer Frank Inn (1916-2002). Inn always looked first at shelters for the animals he needed for various show requests, and the Burbank Animal Shelter was where he met and fell in love with the shaggy brown dog, known as Higgins, that was to be his biggest star.
Who Was Frank Inn?
Inn was born to a Quaker family in Camby, Indiana, and his original name was Elias Franklin Freeman. He left home at age 17, intent on making a name for himself in Hollywood. Two years later he was seriously injured in a car accident and was convalescing at a friend’s house at a time when the family dog had just had a litter of pups. Frank discovered he had a knack for working with animals. His ability soon landed him a job with Rudd Weatherwax, who trained Lassie and Rin Tin Tin.
In Honor of Service Dogs Like Jules and Hepburn
Service dog training organizations have historically not been able to keep up with demand, and Sarah Walker was typical of most people who applied for an assistance dog.
Like most Hollywood legends, the story of Rin-Tin-Tin has many versions. Eisenhower’s Weimeraner, Heidi
During their time in the White House (1953-1961), Ike and Mamie Eisenhower simplified their lives by keeping animals to a minimum.
William Randolph Hearst’s Dachshund
When most pets die, their passing is noted by the family with great pain and feelings of loss, particularly at those odd daily moments when you expect to see his or her face there to greet you.
Laddie Boy, Warren Harding’s Dog
Laddie Boy was an Airedale belonging to Warren G. Harding, the 29th president of the United States (1921-23).
