How many pigeons were give a Dickin Medal during World War II?
32 During the Second World War (1939-45), PDSA’s founder Maria Dickin was aware of incredible bravery displayed by animals on active service and the Home Front. Inspired by the animals’ devotion to man and duty, she introduced a special medal specifically for animals in war. The PDSA Dickin Medal, recognised as the animals’ Victoria Cross, is awarded to animals displaying conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty while serving or associated with any branch of the Armed Forces or Civil Defence Units. The Medal, can only be considered on receipt of an official recommendation, was awarded 54 times between 1943 and 1949. The recipients comprised 32 pigeons, 18 dogs, three horses and one cat. In October 2000 a Canadian dog called Gander was added to the Roll of Honour. Since then, a further six PDSA Dickin Medals have been awarded and all to dogs. In February 2007, to recognise gallantry in two areas of military conflict: to Royal Army Veterinary explosives search dog Sadie for her life-
