REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVED, INCLUDING THE ANIMALS.

Remembering the animals who served, and Their Sacrifice This ANZAC Day!

During World War I, an estimated 16 million animals were drawn into the machinery of war.

It’s a staggering number. Hard to picture. Harder still to truly feel.

Of those, around 8 million were horses who never made it home.

When we think of ANZAC history, many Australians immediately picture the bravery of the Australian Light Horse Brigade. And rightly so. Their courage is woven deeply into our national identity.

But they did not stand alone.

The Quiet Army Behind the Front Lines

Beyond the Light Horse, there was an entire, often forgotten, army of animals working tirelessly behind the scenes.

Horses charged into battle, pulled artillery, and carried soldiers across unforgiving terrain.

Mules and donkeys transported ammunition, food, and medical supplies where vehicles simply couldn’t go

They also helped evacuate wounded soldiers, often under fire, and recover those who had fallen

These animals didn’t choose to serve. Yet they endured the same chaos, noise, fear, and hardship as the people beside them.

 

The Unsung Specialists

Some animals took on roles that feel almost unbelievable today.

Dogs acted as sentries, messengers, and search-and-rescue companions.

They could locate injured soldiers, detect danger, and even deliver messages through active battle zones.

Even Pigeons became vital communication links, with over 100,000 used in WWI and 200,000 in WWII

Canaries were early warning systems in trenches, alerting soldiers to deadly gas before humans could detect it.

 

And then there were the mascots and companions.

Not trained for strategy or survival… but essential in another way.

They brought comfort. Familiarity. A small flicker of home in places where hope could feel very far away.

 

Why This Still Matters Today

ANZAC Day is about remembrance.

About honouring sacrifice.

 

And while we rightly pay tribute to the men and women who served, it’s worth pausing to remember the animals who stood beside them.

They were integral to the war effort.

Integral to survival.

Integral to the freedoms we enjoy today.

 

From Then to Now: The Role of Animals in Our Lives

Fast forward to today, and animals continue to play an extraordinary role in our lives, just in a different uniform.

They may not be as prevalent on battlefields…

However, they are still on the front lines of something just as important:

• Mental health and emotional wellbeing

• Companionship and connection

• Routine, purpose, and joy in everyday life

 

For many Australians, pets are not just animals.

They are family.

They are the steady heartbeat in the background of our busiest, most stressful days.

They are the way we find our own inner peace, by spending time with them and enjoying their company.

 

A Moment of Reflection This ANZAC Day

 

This ANZAC Day, as you take a moment to reflect…

Remember those who served.

Honour those who sacrificed.

And spare a thought for the animals who stood beside them, without question, without choice, and without recognition

Then, perhaps, do something simple.

• Spend some time with your Dog… Not just a walk!

  • Give them some Dog Treats just because you love them.

• Brush and pat your pony…… don’t just feed your horse.

  • Give them some Horse Treats as you enjoy their company.

• Spend a quiet moment together.

  • Use Healthy Pet Treats and Horse Treats to increase those bonds, and to help find your peace with your pets.

Because the bond we share with our animals today is not new.

It’s part of a long, enduring story of loyalty, trust, and companionship.

And that story is worth remembering and which the team at Huds and Toke™  feel very strongly about. 

We are proud that our culture in Australia gives us the opportunity to honour our fallen souls, both human and animals.

Thank-you for your support.  We truly appreciate it and we will continue making pet treats and pet products to help you find your peace with your animals and be as good as it gets for you and your pets.

Becasue we are more than a Brand.  Huds and Toke is a movement which aims to help you connect to your pets to help you find your peace and to increase the level of joy within your life.