Every Remembrance Day, we take time to reflect on the sacrifices of the brave soldiers who fought for our freedom. On this important day, it’s vital that we remember the courageous animals who valiantly served by the side of soldiers and others during wartime. To show the importance of contributions from all animals during times of war, consider wearing an Animals in War collection pin.
Since 2017, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society releases commemorative Animals in War pin each year leading up to Remembrance Day. These pins are intended to be worn as a complement to the poppy in remembrance. There are four distinct animals featured – a horse, a pigeon, a cat, and a dog.
What are the wartime contributions from animals?
Mules carried artillery, horses transported troops and hauled field guns, pigeons delivered crucial messages, cats severed as companions and kept ships free of vermin, and dogs have served as messengers, medical assistants, bomb detectors and search and rescue workers.
Each pin is $12, and the funds from the sale of the pins will go towards helping provide care for animals who are in need, as well as our veterans. This year, $2.50 from each pin sold will go towards Royal Canadian Legion branches all across Ontario.
“We must always remember the sacrifice of the people and animals who have served our country,” said Sonya Reichel, Executive Director for the Georgian Triangle Humane Society. “We will proudly wear a poppy and Animals in War pin this Remembrance Day as a visible reminder of the courage shown by our veterans and the animals that have always been by their side in times of conflict and times of peace.”
To buy a pin, head over to the Georgian Triangle Humane Society at 549 Tenth Line, Collingwood, or Treasure Tails at 186 Hurontario Street.