17 Beloved Companions: Fascinating Tales of Historic Pets and Their World Famous Masters

Lord Byron and Boatswain

The renowned poet Lord Byron had a deep affection for his Newfoundland dog, Boatswain. When Boatswain contracted rabies, which was untreatable at the time, Byron cared for his dog by himself even though there was a considerable risk to his own health. Boatswain was more than a pet to Lord Byron because he symbolized the purity and loyalty that he admired but often found lacking in people. Upon Boatswain's death, Byron wrote a poem in his honor alongside one of the largest and most elaborate memorials ever dedicated to a pet, reflecting Byron’s profound grief at the loss of his dear dog.