Dalmations

Hi Puzzler,

I was just looking at our Three Alarm Fire puzzle. It’s the one with the three adorable Dalmatians sitting in a red wagon. Those little puppies instantly remind me of fire trucks and Cruella De Vil. Some things will forever be linked together and Cruella and fire trucks go with Dalmatians.

Dalmatians have a long rich history with firehouses that dates back to the days of stage coaches. Now you might be thinking, Dalmatians and stage coaches? How does that relate to Dalmatians and fire trucks? Well the answer lies with the horse. Dalmatians were the perfect coach dog not only because of their height and weight, but, because they are a very active, strong, muscular breed which is able to run long distances without fatigue. These mighty creatures can keep up with a team of horses and follow them for 20-30 miles! In addition, Dalmatians are very loyal to their owners, and are a superior opponent when challenged. They have an innate ability to calm and soothe horses which in turn helps foster a close bond between horse and dog.

During the 17th century horse theft was very common and Dalmatians were used to protect the horses and the content of the carriage. If a stagecoach driver did not own a Dalmatian he would be forced to sleep with the horses and carriage to help insure that nothing would get stolen. Even the fire-wagons needed protection from thieves. Some thieves were so ruthless that they would steal equipment and horses from a fire-wagon while its team was helping to extinguish a fire. Owning a Dalmatian quickly put an end to this despicable behavior and it would forever solidify the Dalmatian as a fire house mascot.

In 1956, the book One Hundred and One Dalmatians by author Dodie Smith is published. It introduces to the world the villainous Cruella De Vil. Cruella is a wealthy fashion-obsessed heiress who wants what no one else has… a fur coat made out of Dalmatian puppy skins! This brilliant novel was turned into an animated Disney classic in 1961and has since become a classic. If you have never read the book I would highly recommend it. The movie was good but the book is better!

Fire trucks, Cruella and Dalmatians, forever synonymous with each other!!!

Happy Puzzling!