Desiree DeCoste
Beaver Staff
Ontario’s SPCA and Humane Society are paying tribute to the many wartime contribution of animals through a series of Animals in War commemorative pins.
The pins symbolize the wartime contributions of all animals. For example, mules carried artillery, horses transported troops and hauled field guns, pigeons delivered crucial messages and dogs served (and still serve) as messengers, medical assistants, bomb detectors and search and rescue workers.
The Ontario SPCA launched the pin in 2017 to recognize the wartime contributions of animals and support our veterans.
“The Animals in War pin(s) funds the care of vulnerable animals at the Ontario SPCA Lennox & Addington Animal Centre, and $1 for every pin sold is donated to our local Royal Canadian Legion branch to support our local veterans,” said Ester McCutcheon, manager of the OSPCA Lennox and Addington Animal Centre. “This year, through the sale of last year’s pins, we were able to donate $250 to our local Branch 137.”
The Animals in War pins are to be worn as a complement to the poppy in remembrance of our veterans and the animals that bravely served by their side.
In honour of the sacrifices of all animals in war and in honour of women in Canada’s military and the animals who have served by their side, two new pin designs have been added for this years collection, with one being limited edition.
“We are excited to unveil two new designs this year along with our original horse pin,” McCutcheon told The Beaver. “One features a dog and represents the sacrifices of all animals in war, while the other is a limited edition commemorative pin in honour of women in Canada’s military and the animals they served alongside, which also features a horse.”
Cost per pin is $12.95 plus shipping and handling and will be available until Nov. 11.
Pins are available at the Napanee Animal Shelter, 156 Richmond Blvd (while supplies last), and online at ontariospca.ca
OSPCA cannot guarantee online orders placed after Nov. 5 will arrive by Remembrance Day.