As Canadians come together on Remembrance Day to honour those who have served their country, the wartime contributions of animals will also be recognized through a new commemorative pin being launched locally by the Lennox & Addington Animal Centre.
Created by the Ontario SPCA, the Animals in War pin is designed to be worn alongside your poppy to remember our veterans and the animals who bravely served by their side. This year’s commemorative pin will feature a dog. For each pin sold, $1 will be donated to the Royal Canadian Legion to support veterans.
The Animals in War pin concept was launched in 2017, with the inaugural design featuring a horse. The Ontario SPCA proudly donated $2,500 to the Royal Canadian Legion from the sales of last year’s pin.
“The Animals in War pin was created to serve as a reminder of the wartime contributions of animals, while also supporting our veterans,” says Esther McCutcheon, Centre Manager, Lennox & Addington Animal Centre.
“We invite Canadians to wear it with pride as they don their poppy this Remembrance Day.”
The Ontario SPCA will also be sending officers to Ottawa to place a wreath during the National Remembrance Day Ceremony on November 11, marking the third time the Society has taken part.
“We are honoured to be participating in this service to reflect on the veterans and animals who have served this country,” says McCutcheon. “The Society will always remember their sacrifices and bravery.”
A variety of animals have served in wartime. Mules carried artillery, horses transported troops and hauled field guns, pigeons delivered crucial messages and dogs served as messengers, medical assistants, bomb detectors and search and rescue workers.
The Animals in War pin is available at the Lennox & Addington Animal Centre, located at 156 Richmond Blvd. Napanee, or online at pawsandgive.ca.
