Famous Military Animals

Happy Memorial Day! Each year, we take today to remember all those who gave their lives in defense of our country. As brave as all of those men and women were, there were also some Furry Friends alongside them. We're here to give recognition to some of the most famous military animals in history.

Sefton, the Horse

Sefton the horse served 17 years of active military duty as a show horse and as one of the members of Buckingham Palace's Changing of the Guard. He was the first-ever British Horse of the Year, won numerous medals, and has a wing named after him in the Royal Veterinary College. He even survived a severed jugular along with 34 other wounds after his formation was hit by an IRA bomb during a trip to the Palace. It's safe to say, that's one tough horse.

Nemo A534, the German Shepherd

Nemo was a sentry dog during the Vietnam War, who was used to sniff out the enemy from a distance. On December 4, 1966, Nemo and his handler spotted hidden Viet Cong fighters, and after a fight, caused two enemy casualties. However, Nemo's handler was wounded, as was Nemo -- he lost an eye and was shot in the nose. With his Handler unable to move and backup not yet there, Nemo laid on top of his handler’s body and fought off anyone who approached them. By the time his own company arrived, Nemo was in such a defensive mindset, that he had to be sedated before he could be treated by a vet.  After that act of heroism, Nemo was given a permanent retirement kennel and worked as a recruiting dog for the rest of his days.

Wojtek, the Bear

Wojtek was adopted by a Polish Artillery Supply Company who was fighting in the Middle East in 1943. Since pets weren't allowed on transport ships, the Polish Force enlisted Wojtek as a private so he could travel with the company. Wojtek could perform a military salute and even carried munition during the Battle of Monte Cassino, never dropping a single crate.  After the war, Wojtek moved to the Edinburg Zoo, and his legacy lives on in the emblem of the Polish 22nd Transport Company —  a picture of a bear carrying and artillery shell.

At Berkeley Heights Animal Hospital, we strive to keep your pets in perfect health so they can be the heroes of your own home. We offer free vaccines or a free exam for new clients, as well as affordable veterinary care for all patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 908-464-0023.