Yes, historical records confirm there were indeed 12 dogs on board the RMS Titanic during its tragic maiden voyage in April 1912. These canine passengers were a testament to the luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by many of the ship's first-class travelers.
Canine Companions on Board the Unsinkable Ship
The presence of pets, particularly dogs, on grand ocean liners like the Titanic was a common feature of opulent travel in the early 20th century. For many affluent passengers, their beloved animals were an integral part of their journey.
Dedicated Kennels and Facilities
The Titanic was equipped with facilities to accommodate these special passengers. Records indicate that:
- Kennels were situated at the base of the dummy fourth funnel, providing a secure and dedicated space for the dogs. This location was specifically designed to house the animals away from the main passenger areas, yet still provide comfort and care.
- Crew members were responsible for walking the dogs daily on the aft well deck, ensuring they received exercise and attention.
The Cost of Luxury for Pets
Bringing a dog on the Titanic was a significant expense, reflecting the high value placed on these animal companions by their owners.
- The fare for a dog was notably expensive – equal to a child's ticket. This substantial cost underscored the luxury status associated with traveling with pets on such an prestigious vessel.
Owners and Their First-Class Pets
The ownership of these canine passengers predominantly came from a specific demographic:
- Most of the owners were wealthy Americans travelling First Class. These individuals viewed their dogs as cherished family members, often lavishing them with the same attention and care they would afford to human companions. Their ability to afford both a first-class ticket for themselves and an expensive fare for their dog highlighted their privileged status.
A Glimpse at the Titanic's Canine Passengers
While 12 dogs were confirmed to be on board, only three are known to have survived the sinking. The vast majority, sadly, perished along with thousands of human passengers and crew. Here's a brief overview of some of the dogs and their fate:
| Aspect of Canine Presence | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Dogs | 12 |
| Kennel Location | Base of the dummy fourth funnel |
| Travel Fare | Equal to a child's ticket (a considerable expense) |
| Typical Owners | Wealthy Americans, primarily travelling First Class |
| Known Survivors | Only 3 dogs (two Pomeranians and one Pekingese) were rescued, often carried onto lifeboats by their owners due to their small size. |
| Examples of Dogs | Lady, a Pomeranian belonging to Margaret Bechstein Hays; Sun Yat-sen, a Pekingese belonging to Henry and Myra Harper; a second Pomeranian owned by Elizabeth Barrett Rothschild. |
The stories of these dogs, both those who survived and those who were lost, add another poignant layer to the human tragedy of the Titanic. Their presence highlights the customs and comforts of the Edwardian era's elite travelers. For more detailed accounts of the animals on board, you can explore resources from the Encyclopedia Titanica or the Titanic Historical Society.
