Honouring Heroes This Remembrance Sunday

7th November 2025

Disclaimer: AI-generated imagery has been used to avoid copyright infringement.

As Remembrance Sunday approaches, we take a moment to reflect not only on the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed but also on the incredible animals who have stood by their side. At Petpals, we believe every act of courage deserves recognition – whether on two legs or four.

One remarkable way animals’ bravery has been honoured is through the Dickin Medal, often described as the “animals’ Victoria Cross.” Awarded by the PDSA, this medal recognises courage and devotion to duty in animals serving alongside the Armed Forces or Civil Defence Units. To date, it has been awarded to dogs, pigeons, horses, and even one cat, recognising their extraordinary contributions in wartime.

Extraordinary Animal Heroes of War

Horses were vital in both World Wars, serving in cavalry, hauling artillery, transporting supplies, and assisting in battlefield communication. Many were exposed to the same dangers as soldiers, including shell fire and exhaustion. One notable example is Warrior, the horse of Captain Jack Seely, who served throughout the First World War at battles including the Somme and Ypres. Warrior’s courage reminds us of the thousands of horses whose dedication was critical to the war effort.

Dogs were also indispensable. They served as messenger dogs, guard dogs, search and rescue companions, and mine detectors. Heroes like Rifleman Khan, a German Shepherd in WWII, served alongside the Cameronians in critical campaigns, while Jet of Iada helped rescue civilians trapped during the Blitz. Dogs’ loyalty and bravery saved countless lives, and many were awarded the Dickin Medal for their gallantry.

Pigeons might seem an unlikely hero, but they were vital messengers when other communication methods failed. Birds like Kenley Lass and All Alone delivered intelligence from behind enemy lines across hundreds of miles, often under heavy enemy fire. Their courage and reliability were remarkable, and several pigeons were honoured with the Dickin Medal for their life-saving missions.

Even cats played their part. They controlled rats aboard ships and in trenches, protecting food stores and helping prevent disease. Some, like Simon the Cat aboard HMS Amethyst, also boosted morale in dire situations, and Simon remains the only cat to have received the Dickin Medal.

Continuing the Legacy of Care

This year, one of our own team members is demonstrating extraordinary dedication to supporting both animals and the people who care for them. Tracey Dawber, our Franchise Support Manager, will be running her fourth London Marathon in 2026 to raise vital funds for the PDSA. Her fundraising efforts will help ensure that pets whose owners are in financial difficulty still receive the care they need, reflecting the same compassion and courage honoured by the Dickin Medal. Tracey’s commitment is a shining example of the Petpals spirit – care, compassion, and in Tracey’s case, quite literally going the extra mile for animals.

Honour Them with a Purple Poppy

As Remembrance Sunday approaches, we encourage everyone to remember the bravery and sacrifices of animals by wearing a purple poppy alongside the traditional red poppy. While the red poppy honours those who have fallen, the purple poppy symbolises respect for the animals who served and gave their lives alongside humans in conflicts. By wearing both, we show support and gratitude for all heroes – human and animal – keeping their memory alive.

Whether through reflection, fundraising, or taking a moment to wear a purple poppy alongside the red poppy, there are many ways we can pay tribute this Remembrance Sunday. Every act of remembrance honours not just the people who fought and fell, but also the incredible animals whose devotion made a difference in times of hardship.

If you would like to support Tracey’s marathon efforts and help pets in need, you can donate to her PDSA fundraiser here. Every contribution helps provide essential veterinary care for animals whose owners are in financial difficulty, echoing the spirit of care and bravery that Remembrance Sunday celebrates.

This Remembrance Sunday, we honour the fallen, celebrate the brave, and reaffirm our commitment to caring for animals and the people who love them. ❤️💜