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Pet keeping used to be just one type
of relationship Americans had with animals. Well into the 1900s,
people in both city and country lived close to horses, pigs, and
other livestock whose bodies provided muscle power, food, and
materials for manufacturing. Many dogs and cats were workers,
protecting homes and businesses from human thieves and animal
pests.
People knew firsthand that human life depended upon
animals. Still, both rich and poor Americans chose to give some
animals the status of "pet." Today most Americans only have contact
with animals that are pets. |
Horse Power - In towns and cities, horses provided the power for cabs, streetcars, fire engines, refuse pick-up, and police wagons. All communities contained buildings and businesses created to accommodate the presence of horses. Streetside hitching posts, raised curbside steps for carriage entry, and water troughs all marked the presence of city horses.
"Street Types of New York City:
Hansom Driver Standing in Front of Horse and Cab"
Photograph by Elizabeth Alice Austin, 1897
Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division
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Working Dogs - In the past, dogs often worked for their livings. Dogs guarded homes and businesses; some herded livestock. In some cities, dogs pulled small carts for rag pickers and news boys. At home and in stores, dogs powered treadmills that were attached to washing machines, butter churns, and grinders.
"First Prize Dog Power"
American dog treadmill, patented 1884
Collection of Dr. and Mrs. Steve Swank 
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