Unusual Pioneer Pets - Laura Ashwood

Anyone that watched Little House on the Prairie remembers Jack. The faithful, loveable, scruffy little dog that managed to follow the Ingalls wagon all the way to Walnut Grove. Jack was followed by Bandit, the border collie. It was not uncommon at all for pioneer families to have dogs as pets. They were not only great companions in the isolation of the large, open spaces, but also served as guardians of the livestock and family members. Early photos of pioneer families and homesteads often include a dog. 

Cats were also frequently found in pioneer homes. They were revered for keeping rodents out of foodstores and homes, as well as being companions. 

But cats and dogs weren't the only pets on the prairie. Even in Little House, Laura had made a pet out of Jasper, the friendly raccoon for a short while (no spoilers here). 

In the prairies of Dakota Territory, it wasn't unusual for children to make pets out of prairie dogs. 

Birds were also popular pets, only it wasn't the parakeets and finches found in today's pet shops. Rather it was ravens, owls, crows, and even pigeons that graced the shoulders of their owners during that time. 

But it was the squirrel that was one of the most popular pets of the 19th Century. Their amiable nature, small size, and ability to entertain made it a favorite amongst the young and old alike. A plethora of literature about the care of squirrels as domestic pets could be found, as well as beautiful cages, collars and chains (leashes) for the more wealthy squirrel owner.  

Pet squirrels could be procured from pet stores, bird breeders, and for those less affluent folks, even captured from the wild. By the early 1900s, the novelty of squirrels as pets was wearing off, and rather than fun pets, squirrels began to be despised as pests. Most states eventually adopted exotic pet laws, prohibiting the keeping of squirrels as pets. 

Have you ever had what would be considered an exotic pet? 

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When the freak blizzard of 1878 kills most of the men in a small Nebraska town, what does it mean for the surviving women and children?

Realizing they need to find men of honor to help rebuild, the women place an advertisement in the Matrimonial Times.

Choosing a husband is more difficult than they thought, when there is an overwhelming response to the ad.

Will these Blizzard Brides find the second chance at love in a town called Last Chance?

My book, A Groom for Ruby is now available for pre-order!