a man kneeling down next to a body of water

War messenger dog in the front area swimming across a canal to reach its master and deliver a message Messenger dog paddling across a canal to reach its handler, in France, during World War I. The dog pictured swimming across this canal worked as a messenger dog in the front line. Scrolled up messages in waterproof containers would have been attached to the dogs collar. Dogs were also used in the trenches to kill rats and mice, protecting food supplies. In addition to carrying out messenger duties and various other tasks, a regimental mascot to maintain the troops morale.digital.nls.uk/745490