Sable Chief
Sable Chief was a Newfoundland dog that served as the mascot of the 2nd Battalion Royal Newfoundland Regiment during World War I. He was first presented through the efforts of Sir Edgar Bowring to the Regiment's 2nd Battalion in April, 1917 by an unknown Canadian officer serving in England.
Chief became well known for his immense size and dignified demeanor. He was known to march alongside the troops, keeping in step throughout, and it has been said that he would stand at attention during the playing of the Newfoundland National Anthem. He was regarded among the troops as a general morale booster, frequently visiting wounded soldiers.
In 1917, Sable Chief was struck down and killed by an automobile, and his remains were given to a taxidermist for posterity. He was put on display at the Newfoundland Naval and Military Museum in St. John's. Over time, Chief began falling into disrepair, the condition of his pelt significantly deteriorating. Eventually a fundraising campaign was initiated by Judy Ferguson, who lived in Newfoundland, to restore Sable Chief to his previous state. Significant work was completed on his pelt, and he was placed inside a sealed clear case for further protection.
Sable Chief is currently on display at the Newfoundland museum located at The Rooms.
References
- Gerald W. L. Nicholson (14 May 2014). Fighting Newfoundlander. McGill-Queen's Press - MQUP. pp. 219–. ISBN 978-0-7735-7544-8.