Throughout history, dogs have demonstrated their unconditional loyalty to human beings and have performed very valuable jobs for people. We know the names of many unique dogs that have participated in movies, advertisements, or have had exemplary behavior. However, you may never have heard the story of Stubby, a very special furry who fought alongside the American Army in World War I and was also promoted to sergeant for his work and bravery.
According to the story, Stubby was a stray bull terrier who roamed the streets of Connecticut alone, without family or home. His luck completely changed the day he met Robert Conroy , a young American soldier who decided to adopt him and smuggle him onto the ship that was taking them ahead. As he was quite short and somewhat stout, the soldier decided to call him Stubby (Chubby in Spanish). And, although his life could have been completely different, the army decided to make him the official mascot of the division thanks to his natural charm.
Thus, Stubby came to fight in France and accompanied the military on missions. During 18 months he participated in 17 battles and located wounded soldiers who were lost. In addition, it was able to detect gas attacks and hear the buzz of projectiles. Without a doubt, a smart and loyal little dog who protected his adoptive family tooth and nail.
After the war ended, the dog returned to the United States as a hero and led numerous parades. In addition, when he died in 1926 the New York Times dedicated a half-page obituary to him , much larger than that of many relevant people at that time.
Stubby’s story in the movies
Filmmaker Richard Lanni stumbled upon Stubby’s story while researching the First World War. He knew that he was facing a human and special story, so he decided to take it to the cinema in the form of animation and under the watchful eye of a dog. Patrick Doyle , the composer of great hits such as Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire or Brave, has also collaborated in the film. In addition, it is a film suitable for the whole family in which values such as dedication, loyalty, heroism or courage are revealed. If you are an animal lover or a true history lover, don’t miss it!
The role of war dogs
Did you know that the first documentary record of war dogs dates back to 600 BC ? The conflict took place in present-day Turkey, where the Battle of Alyattes de Lydia took place . According to the story, the dogs of the Lydians killed some invaders.
In the case of Spain, dogs were great allies during the Civil War , when they were trained as mine seekers, patrols or medical dogs. In addition, although Stubby is the most decorated war dog, today there are canine units specialized in tracking bombs, drugs and people , so the work of these furry dogs should also be recognized.
