Smoky – First Therapy Dog & Veteran of WWII

As an unofficial Army war dog she performed heroically and is also considered by many to be the first Therapy Dog on record for deeds at war and at home. Smoky represents both Therapy and Rescue Animals at the National Service Animals Memorial.

“Smoky” was a 4-lb Yorkshire Terrier rescued from a foxhole in New Guinea during WWII.

She reminds us of the importance of rescuing all of our animals, treating them well, and when possible training them for service work.

Bill Wynne penned a wonderful and touching book about his life with Smoky, entitled “Yorkie Doodle Dandy”.

Only a select few rescue animals have the temperament to become service animals, but Smoky was one of them. She went on 12 missions and survived 150 air raids with her adoptive owner and trainer Corporal
William W. (Bill) Wynne.  He also trained her to do 250 tricks to entertain the troops.

She received medals including the Purple Cross (from Australia) which was to recognize the actions of animals, particularly if they have risked their life to save a person from injury or death.

Smoky’s monument by Susan Bahary can be seen at the Cleveland Metroparks and at the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in Queensland, Australia.