We Will Remember Them: Honouring Pets Who Served on Remembrance Day
As Remembrance Day approaches, many of us begin to reflect on courage, sacrifice, and the cost of service. At Paw & Soul, where love and remembrance intertwine, I find myself thinking not only of the brave people who served, but also of the animals who stood beside them — often without choice, yet always with loyalty and heart.
This week, as we prepare to remember, let’s take a moment to honour the unsung animal heroes whose quiet courage and devotion helped humans endure war — and to acknowledge the truth that they deserved gentler lives than the battlefields they were brought to.
A Quiet Tribute to All Who Served — Human and Animal Alike
When we picture war, we often see the human face of courage: soldiers, nurses, and medics in uniform. Yet history also carries softer stories — of horses pulling artillery through mud and rain; of messenger pigeons flying through gunfire to deliver life-saving messages; of ship cats who kept crews safe from disease; and of dogs who searched for the wounded or stood guard by their handlers.
In Ottawa, the Animals in War Dedication in Confederation Park honours their sacrifices. Horses and mules carried supplies and troops; pigeons carried messages; and dogs and cats offered both practical service and emotional comfort.
These animals had no voice in the matter, no understanding of politics or sides. They served because humans asked them to — and they gave everything they had. Remembering them is not only an act of gratitude, but an act of compassion.
“Paws At The Ready” – A Poem by Teresa Harrison-Best
Paws At The Ready
By Teresa Harrison-Best
The cats of World War One had significant role
in all the campaigns, we must honour their
bravery too.
Give thought to all the kitties
who served in World War One.
A battalion of the finest
who never fired a gun.
What was their role?
Whether hunting rodents out at sea,
or loyal friends to men,
these many cats had vital roles,
time and time again.
The food was saved.
A common sight in trenches deep,
dispatching mice and rats,
the soldiers had a special bond
with many of these cats.
Many were treasured mascots.
Five hundred thousand cats were sent
to serve in the Great War.
Some detected mustard gas,
whilst others were off shore.
Some of the feline heroes.
Togo was the Dreadnought's cat,
The Swan had their lad Ching.
Pincher was the Vinex's mog,
it was luck they hoped they'd bring.
'Martinpuich' was aptly named,
by The 9th battalion chaps.
Pitouchi was the orphaned kit,
who'd survived on army scraps.
Spark Plug, Tabby and many more
were companions to the troops.
The feline unsung heroes,
those cats who became recruits.
We'll never truly realise
just what these cats went through.
So spare a thought and give some thanks
for what they did for you!
Lest We Forget!
This poem captures something profound: the courage of creatures who served without understanding war, who gave companionship and comfort in the darkest moments, and who bore risks they never chose.
It’s a reminder that remembrance isn’t just about honouring sacrifice — it’s also about holding compassion for those who were caught in humanity’s conflicts through no fault of their own.
Why Remembering Animals in War Matters
Taking time to honour animals of war deepens our connection to all beings who serve, love, and trust us. It also calls us to do better — to protect, respect, and care for animals who depend on us.
They showed loyalty in its purest form. Animals stood beside humans without question or agenda — their faith was absolute.
Their service was never a choice. They were brought into danger, often frightened and suffering, yet they continued to give comfort and hope.
Their memory teaches compassion. When we acknowledge their sacrifice, we also commit to treating today’s animals with gentleness and dignity.
Their stories connect past and present. Remembering them reminds us that love, loyalty, and courage are not uniquely human traits.
Gentle Ways to Honour Them This Week
In the days leading up to Remembrance Day, we can all create small, meaningful acts of remembrance — both for the animals who served and for the pets who’ve touched our lives.
🕯 Light a candle for the animals of war. Let it represent their loyalty and the peace we wish they’d known.
📖 Share “Paws At The Ready.” Help their stories live on by reading or posting the poem.
🐾 Include your pet in your moment of silence. Hold them close at 11 a.m. on November 11 and whisper a thank-you for the comfort they bring.
🌺 Wear a poppy with compassion. As you pin it on, honour both the people and animals who suffered in war.
💬 Talk about them. Teach children and friends that remembrance includes every life touched by conflict.
❤️ Honour your own companion. Light a candle or place a poppy near their photo — because they, too, served your heart.
A Reflection for Those Who Grieve
If this time of year stirs memories of a pet who’s no longer with you, please know that your grief is valid and sacred. Our animals serve us in quiet, everyday ways — with love, patience, humour, and healing.
You might whisper: You gave me your trust, your joy, and your heart. I remember you. May all animals know gentler days.
Remembrance isn’t just about service — it’s about love that continues, and the promise that we’ll honour that love by being kind to every animal we meet.
Looking Ahead to November 11
As Remembrance Day nears, let’s carry both gratitude and awareness — gratitude for all who served, and awareness that animals, too, bore the weight of war.
At Paw & Soul, I often say: What remains is love.
That love reaches beyond uniforms and battlefields — to every paw print, hoofbeat, and flutter that once accompanied human footsteps into danger.
May we remember them all.
May we also do better for those who depend on us now.
Lest we forget. 🕊️
If this week brings tender feelings about a beloved pet you’ve lost, you don’t have to hold that alone. I offer gentle, compassionate grief support — to honour their memory and help you find healing through remembrance.
