Post by FireGuy on Sept 8, 2006 22:28:57 GMT -5
The images of firehouses and Dalmations are almost inseparable, however the origin of their connection is a topic of some debate.
The prevailing story dates back to Old World England, Scotland and Whales, where coachmen discovered that the Dalmation breed attaches particularly well with horses. Once bonded, the team is inseparable.
Back in the carriage days, horse theft was common. Many drivers would sleep outside near their team to guard against thieves, but drivers with a Dalmatian "on guard" could sleep in a hotel room with their rig and team secure. Since early pumper wagons were horse-drawn, it was natural for each group of firemen to keep a Dalmatian, for security as well as company.
An opposing theory of the Dalmation's evolution into the firehouse proposes that the breed is hearing impaired and therefore not bothered by the sirens. While the breed is inclined to develop hearing problems, this does not explain the long-standing connection between Dalmations and coachmen prior to their use on firetrucks.
The prevailing story dates back to Old World England, Scotland and Whales, where coachmen discovered that the Dalmation breed attaches particularly well with horses. Once bonded, the team is inseparable.
Back in the carriage days, horse theft was common. Many drivers would sleep outside near their team to guard against thieves, but drivers with a Dalmatian "on guard" could sleep in a hotel room with their rig and team secure. Since early pumper wagons were horse-drawn, it was natural for each group of firemen to keep a Dalmatian, for security as well as company.
An opposing theory of the Dalmation's evolution into the firehouse proposes that the breed is hearing impaired and therefore not bothered by the sirens. While the breed is inclined to develop hearing problems, this does not explain the long-standing connection between Dalmations and coachmen prior to their use on firetrucks.
