Another in the fire dog series.
The image of a polka-dotted dalmatian riding shotgun in a fire truck is indelible in American pop culture and lore, but the story of how they got there is lesser-known. In honor of National Fire Pup Day, we’ve delved into the history, evolution, and enduring legacy of the dogs who keep firefighters company.
From 17th century carriage dogs to modern-day firehouse mascots, these brave and beautiful canines serve as symbols of the heroic work of their human crewmates…and sometimes, they even get in on the action themselves.
Before there were fire pups, there were carriage dogs. A few hundred years ago, dogs were trained to trot alongside horse-drawn wagons and protect their occupants (and horses) from harm.
Although a “carriage dog” is not a specific breed, certain breeds were more suited to the lifestyle. A carriage dog needed a few key features:
- Long legs and a sturdy body
- Energy and motivation
- Endurance to keep up on a long journey
- A good temperament and high level of obedience
Enter the dalmatian. According to the American Kennel Club’s Complete Dog Book on the Dalmatian Club of America website, dalmatians were the perfect carriage dogs because they have the “strength, vitality, fortitude and size to keep going gaily til the journey’s end.” Dalmatians also happened to have a reputation for getting along great with horses, and it wasn’t long before they became the favored carriage dog among wealthy citizens of England and America.
When horsedrawn fire carriages hit the scene in the late 1700s, carriage dogs became fire pups. Dalmatians were perfectly suited for the job, not only because of their carriage-trailing abilities, but their grace under fire. Dalmatians were known to have a calming effect on horses, so while firefighters battled a blaze, the fire dog could stay with the horses ease their stress. Back at the station, the fire dog would typically bunk in the stable alongside their equine charges.
Cache is magnetic and should be an easy find. No need to get close to the firehouse. Cache is near the road.