How Animals Were Used
In World War II
During World War II, almost all of the countries armies involved enlisted aid of animals. In past conflicts, such as World War I, horses, elephants, and camels often hauled many men and their supplies around the globe. Pigeons carried messages and dogs tracked enemies while also protected and supporting their troops. Horses, mules, and dogs were regularly employed by American forces in World War II to work on the battlefields. Many horses carried soldiers on patrol missions in Europe and into battle in the Philippines. Mules who were actually “trained” in the United States contributed to the war against countries by carrying the food, weapons, and sometimes the men of entire infantry units on their backs. Around 20 thousand dogs served in World War II, right alongside their soldiers. These dogs big and small guarded posts, supplies, and also carried messages, and rescued shot-down pilots. Scout dogs led their troops through enemy territory. Protecting them by exposing enemy ambushes and saving the lives of many armed soldiers. Many military units in World War II adopted animal mascots as well. These mascots were originally known to bring battling countries good luck, but really, these mascots served as pets to all the men of division. Most often these mascots were local animals who were left to dies when their families fled from the war. Left homeless and lonely, for the adopted dog, cat, or bird, being in a soldier's care meant survival. For many of the soldiers, a pet meant a little bit of comfort and companionship on a war's horrendous battlefields.