17 Beloved Companions: Fascinating Tales of Historic Pets and Their World Famous Masters
From the dawn of civilization, humans have shared their lives with animals. These creatures have been more than just pets; they've been companions, confidants, and even co-workers. This connection between humans and animals has a rich and fascinating history. This article will explore the tales of 17 beloved companions and their world-famous masters. These stories span across centuries and continents, showing how pets have played significant roles in the lives of some of the most influential figures in history. Each section will delve into a unique tale, providing an insightful exploration of the bond between humans and animals.
Alexander the Great and Bucephalus
Alexander the Great's horse Bucephalus meant more to the ruler than merely a means of transport. Bucephalus was a companion and a symbol of Alexander's courage. In one instance, when enemy forces captured Bucephalus, Alexander threatened to destroy the entire enemy territory unless his horse was returned unharmed. Even on the battlefield, Bucephalus was known to be able to sense Alexander's commands and intentions without the need for words or reins. It was a bond that was so strong that it led to the founding of a city in Bucephalus' honor upon his death.
Charles Darwin and Polly
Charles Darwin, the father of evolution, had a beloved pet dog named Polly. Darwin's observations of Polly and other animals influenced his theories on natural selection but in his later years, he shared a deep bond and affection with the terrier. Polly was particularly valuable to Darwin during moments of physical or emotional strain. Darwin suffered from chronic health issues which could leave him bedridden for days. But Polly’s lively personality and affection helped lift his spirits during these difficult times, making it easier for him to cope with life on those days.
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.
Queen Victoria and Dash
Queen Victoria's King Charles Spaniel, Dash, was a constant companion during her early reign. In fact, on the day of her coronation, Victoria had given explicit instructions for Dash to be bathed and groomed while she was away. When she returned to Buckingham Palace after the ceremony, she eagerly ran upstairs—still dressed in her coronation robes—to reunite with her beloved dog who was waiting for her. Dash's loyalty and affection provided comfort and companionship to the queen during her rein and his death was a profound loss for Victoria. Queen Victoria had Dash buried on the grounds of Windsor Castle, a place of significance for the royal family, with a beautifully inscribed headstone to mark his grave.
Emily Dickinson and Carlo
Emily Dickinson, one of America's greatest poets, had a deep bond with her Newfoundland dog, Carlo. One particularly touching moment came after Dickinson had spent hours immersed in her writing. When she finally looked up from her work, she found Carlo gazing at her with what she called his “wise, knowing eyes.” It was in these moments that she truly cherished their bond, often referring to him in her letters as a being who “knows but does not tell.” Carlo's companionship provided Dickinson with comfort and inspiration during her reclusive life and she experienced profound grief at his death, marked by themes of loss, longing, and mortality in her poetry.
Abraham Lincoln and Fido
Abraham Lincoln's dog Fido was a beloved family pet. One of the most endearing stories about Lincoln and Fido is the way Lincoln treated him like a true member of the family. Fido was allowed to sit beside Lincoln during meals, and Lincoln often slipped him scraps from the table, including his favorite pieces of food. His dog was a loyal presence in Lincoln’s life, often following him on his walks around Springfield. Lincoln—who was known for his love of solitude and contemplation—would often take Fido along on his errands or strolls.
Mark Twain and Bambino
Mark Twain's cat Bambino was a source of comfort and inspiration for the famous author. During the years that Bambino was with Twain, he served as a source of comfort. Twain had suffered significant personal losses, including the death of his wife, Olivia, in 1904. In his grief, Twain found solace in Bambino’s company, often referring to him as his “spiritual friend.” It is said that Bambino would sit quietly with Twain during his reflective moments, offering silent companionship that Twain cherished deeply.
Pablo Picasso and Lump
Pablo Picasso's dachshund Lump was a constant companion and a source of inspiration for the famous artist, appearing in a series of 44 drawings created by the artist in 1957. Picasso’s relationship with Lump was marked by the same creativity and warmth that defined much of his life. Lump was more than just a dog; he was a muse, a companion, and a symbol of the artist’s emotional world. Picasso often referred to him as his “dog of destiny,” which is quite something considering they both died on the same day.
Winston Churchill and Dodo
Winston Churchill's beloved dog Dodo was a source of comfort and companionship for the British Prime Minister during World War II. When Dodo passed away, Churchill was heartbroken. His dear dog had been a constant in Churchill’s life through his political highs and lows. What can only be understood as genuine affection, Churchill reportedly buried Dodo at Chartwell, marking his grave with a simple stone. He spent the day in quiet reflection, walking the grounds where he and Dodo had shared so many moments together. Through his life, he'd had several pets but Dodo was most definitely Churchill's most loved pet.
John F. Kennedy and Macaroni
John F. Kennedy's pony Macaroni was a beloved pet of the Kennedy family. In one lighthearted moment, it’s said that Macaroni was involved in a bit of mischief at the White House. During a family picnic, the pony was allowed to roam freely, much to the delight of the children. At one point, Macaroni—who was known for his playful personality—decided to wander off toward the rose garden as the children spoke to their father. The staff tried to catch the pony, but Macaroni had a way of darting about that left everyone chasing about in a tizzy. Eventually, he was caught and brought back to the children, who couldn’t help but giggle at his antics.
Frida Kahlo and Fulang-Chang
Frida Kahlo's pet monkey Fulang-Chang was a frequent subject in her art. His presence in Kahlo's life and art can perhaps be best captured in how Fulang-Chang would sometimes get into trouble around the house, playfully stealing things or causing minor chaos. Frida—who had a playful and free-spirited nature herself—would laugh at his antics, sharing a deep sense of joy in such lighthearted moments.
Elvis Presley and Scatter
As Elvis's life became increasingly hectic, with tours and public appearances, he relied on his beloved German Shepherd Scatter to provide some normalcy and emotional balance. Scatter's antics and relationship with Elvis are perhaps best captured in his home life with his pet. In a humorous anecdote from Presley's Graceland days involves Scatter's habit of hiding Elvis’s shoes. Often, after a long day, Elvis would relax by the fireplace or in his private quarters, but he would find that his shoes had mysteriously disappeared. Upon finding out that it was his dog, Elvis would laugh his antics—enjoying the lighthearted moments that broke up the tension of his busy life.
Audrey Hepburn and Mr. Famous
Audrey Hepburn's Yorkshire terrier Mr. Famous was a constant companion to the famous actress. Whenever Audrey was feeling down or overworked, she would spend time with Mr. Famous, sitting on the floor and giving him her undivided attention. When she passed away in 1993, Mr. Famous was profoundly affected by the loss of his beloved owner and searched for Audrey constantly.
Salvador Dali and Babou
Salvador Dali's pet antelope Babou was a constant companion and a source of inspiration for the famous artist. He often roamed freely around the studio while Dali worked on his art. A particularly whimsical story involves Dali painting in his studio, with Babou wandering around, seemingly oblivious to the artist’s work. Since Babou was a wild animal, he did not stay with the artist forever. It was believed that the antelope was either given away to a zoo or it simply disappeared and Dali—who was heartbroken at his beloved pet's absence—was often seen visiting zoos to watch the antelopes there.
Ernest Hemingway and Snowball
Ernest Hemingway's cat Snowball was a beloved pet of the writer's. Hemingway was pretty well-known for his sometimes tough and gruff exterior, but Snowball’s quiet, graceful nature seemed to soften him. There are several stories of Hemingway sitting for hours in his study, with Snowball curled up on his lap or resting peacefully beside him. She would often be the first to greet him when he arrived home, meowing affectionately.
Marilyn Monroe and Maf
Marilyn Monroe's Maltese terrier Maf was a gift from Frank Sinatra and became a constant companion to the famous actress. A sweet anecdote was when Monroe was feeling isolated after a difficult breakup and Maf was especially close to her. He would stay near her, sensing her sadness, and comfort her during those low moments. It was said that whenever Monroe was upset, Maf would instinctively nudge her or curl up next to her, offering a kind of silent support.
Freddie Mercury and Delilah
Among the many pets the singer had through his life, Delilah was often considered the most beloved. Freddie often shared stories about Delilah's mischievous nature and once joked that Delilah was "the boss" of the household, describing her as a demanding and occasionally temperamental cat. Despite her occasional cattiness, Freddie adored her and often indulged her every whim.
From Alexander the Great's horse Bucephalus to Freddie Mercury's cat Delilah, these stories illustrate the significant roles pets have played in the lives of their famous owners. Pets provide companionship, comfort, and inspiration. They have influenced art, literature, and history. These tales of historic pets and their world-famous masters show the enduring bond between humans and animals, a bond that transcends time and place.
