These animals prove that it's not just the people that make Glasgow - it's the pets too!
Pets - we love them here in Glasgow regardless of their shape or size - big or small, furry or fuzzy - we wanted to look at the most famous animals from the city who made their place in history.
When we think of famous Scottish animals we oft think of Edinburgh's Greyfriars Bobby, or the illustrious haggis - but Glasgow has many of their own community animal hero's whose stories outlived them tenfold.
Today we wanted to look back at those famous Glasgow pets and the legend behind them.
Today we wanted to look back at those famous Glasgow pets and the legend behind them.
5. Smudge
Trade unionists of the 80's will remember Glaswegian working class hero, Smudge, fondly. Originally employed at the People's Palace to assist with a rodent problem in 1979, and quickly became a favourite of visitors. So much so that the museum sold Smudge merchandise. In the 80's Smudge joined the GMB, and was the face of campaigns such as 'Save the Glasgow Vet School' (1989), and 'Paws Off Glasgow Green' (1990). Smudge would go on to follow curator Elspeth King to Stirling's Smith Art Gallery and Museum to once again deal with a rodent problem. Smudge would die peacefully at home in 2000 after a long illness. A plaque at the People's Palace was put up in her honour, it reads: 'Sister Smudge
(c 1970 – 2000)
was a much loved employee
of the People's Palace
and the only cat to be a full
member of the GMB Union'.
6. The Govan Cat
The Govan cat is another feline hero of Glasgow. Next time you're going to Brechin's Bar, take a look up and you'll see this little sandstone fella. Known for clearing out entire warehouses on his lonesome, the cat met his fate at the hands of one particularly big rat. He was commemorated in stone for his service.
National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.