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PERFECT COMPANION
I read with interest the piece on how artists have been supported by canine companions [Always faithful, without question, July issue]. It reminded me of my grandfather’s relationship with his terrier, Ratty, during World War II and illustrates how dogs can play such a significant role in the lives of their masters.
My grandfather, William – known as Bill – was one of the first Eton boys to join up, aged 19. He received a commission into the Grenadier Guards and from there he was posted to North Africa. He encountered the legendary Colonel Joe Dudgeon (father of Ian, one of Ireland’s greatest horsemen) and was seconded to the Pack Transport Regiment, the British forces’ only mounted unit. Bill and Joe became lifelong friends until the latter’s death in 1965.
Prior to departure for Sicily, Bill adopted a stray terrier, called Ratty [the pair are pictured below, left], and they became inseparable. Ratty travelled north on Bill’s saddle throughout the Italian campaign, including the battle of Monte Cassino, where the mules of the regiment were key
