February 12. Today is Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, the 16th
President of the United States. Now
while some may know Lincoln as a humanitarian who helped to put an end to
slavery in the U.S., what some may not know is the fact that he was an early
animal rights advocate – who loved all animals.
He was against hunting and cruelty to animals in any form. In fact, here is a famous quote attributed to
Lincoln: “I am in favor of animal rights as well
as human rights. That is the way of a whole human being.”
Before Lincoln became President, he and
his family had a dog named Fido.
Really - his name was Fido! Apparently Fido was nervous around loud sounds, like bells and
firecrackers and crowds, so when Lincoln was moving to the White House, he
thought it best that Fido remain with a family in his hometown. But he had special instructions for the
family – Fido was not to be chained outdoors and was to be allowed in the
house. Fido had his favorite sofa –
which Lincoln had moved to the new family’s home. Lincoln and his family reportedly fed Fido
scraps at mealtime – so the new family was instructed to carry out the same
routine. So I think Fido had it pretty good!
The first photo of a Presidential dog
was of Fido. Some speculate that Lincoln
took the photo before he left for the White House – to remember Fido by.
Lincoln was also said to like
cats. But we won’t hold that against
him. Just kidding. Sort of.
His children also had ponies, goats and white rabbits – and a turkey
that was initially raised to become Thanksgiving dinner. When his son became quite attached to the
turkey, Lincoln spared the bird – and he didn’t end up on the menu after
all.
There are even several books written
about Lincoln’s love of animals. My
human and her Book Club are currently reading the book “Killing Lincoln.” Obviously the ending is no surprise. Personally, I think one of the animal books
would have been a better choice.
So today we celebrate and toast the birthday
of Honest Abe! Two paws up! And while I do admire the man, I’m just so thankful that they don’t sell Stovepipe
Hats at the Dollar Store…
©
Linda Wozniak
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