What is the PDSA Dickin Medal?
Q: What is the PDSA Dickin Medal?
A: The PDSA Dickin Medal is an award for animals that was created in the United Kingdom by Maria Dickin in 1943. It honors the work of animals during World War II and is often called "the animals' Victoria Cross."
Q: Who created the award?
A: Maria Dickin, founder of the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), a British veterinary charity, created the award.
Q: What criteria must an animal meet to receive the medal?
A: An animal must show "conspicuous gallantry [obvious bravery]" and devotion to its job while serving with the United Kingdom's armed forces or their allies to receive the medal.
Q: How many times has it been awarded since its creation?
A: As of December 2015, it has been awarded 66 times.
Q: When did they start awarding it again after WWII ended?
A: They started awarding it again in 2000 when they honored a Newfoundland dog named Gander posthumously - after his death - for his service during WWII.
Q: Who was one of the first recipients of this medal?
A: Three pigeons were among some of the first recipients in December 1943; they served with Royal Air Force and helped make it possible to rescue air crew from ditched planes during WWII.
Q: Who was most recent recipient of this medal?
A: The most recent recipient was Diesel, a dog who was killed while serving with French police during November 2015 Paris attacks; his award will be presented in 2016.
