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Just like German Shepherds are often associated with law enforcement, the same can be said for Dalmatians and their association with firefighters.
But how did Dalmatians become the mascot of the fire service? The answer might surprise you.
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Dalmations: A history lesson
Dalmatians are known for their physical nature — most can run long distances without tiring — and guarding instinct. In the 1700s, Dalmatians were found to have a calming effect on horse and used to run alongside horses pulling English stagecoaches. When other dogs would run out and try to scare the horses, the Dalmatians would chase them away.
So, during the era of horse-drawn fire apparatus, Dalmatians would run alongside the horses to make sure they weren’t spooked or slowed down by pedestrians in the road. It has been said they acted as “sirens,” barking to alert pedestrians that the fire brigade was en route.
While on scene, the horses were not comfortable being near fire, so the Dalmatians would stay with the horses to keep them calm. The dogs also deterred thieves from stealing anything from the apparatus while firefighters were busy on scene.
Soon, Dalmatians were a commonplace addition in firehouses and became a symbol of the fire service.
Modern-day Dalmatians
Obviously, horse-drawn apparatus were eventually replaced by motorized fire trucks. There’s no longer a need for Dalmatians to keep horses calm or run ahead of the trucks to alert pedestrians.
Today, the presence of Dalmatians in firehouses is more symbolic than functional. These dogs are now primarily beloved mascots, representing the history and camaraderie of the fire service.
Nowadays, Dalmatians can be seen riding inside a fire truck to a call, tagging along with firefighters to teach kids about fire safety, guarding firefighters’ possessions and they are even known to catch and kill rats inside firehouses.
Twenty, a Dalmatian given to FDNY firefighters after 9/11, was oftentimes seen riding up front, sticking her head out the window and barking as crews were heading to a call.
It’s no surprise to see that Dalmatians love the fast firefighting lifestyle. The breed is not for everyone — they’re described as having non-stop energy and need a way to release it. If not, they can become bored and quite destructive.
They require a lot of attention but they’re hard workers — something firefighters are also known for.
Meet the FireRescue1 Dalmatians
Crystal | Sarasota County (Florida) Fire Department
Assistant Fire Chief Tim Dorsey: “She spent quite a bit of time around the station and at events. Lived to be just about 16!”
This article, originally published in February 2017, has been updated.
