Given that I am (and always have been) completely non-photogenic, I chose one of my favorite photos from the Independence Cemetery tour we (Kentucky History Department) conducted in May 2008--"Dot" the Pug!
We were not able to determine if the Brinks’ family pet, Dot, is actually interred at the cemetery with her human companions or if gifted stone carver S. C. Brink rendered the dog’s likeness in stone as a lasting memorial to his family’s much-loved pet. Brink's skillful and lifelike carving was executed with such detail that the curled tail, prominent eyes, small folded ears, very broad muzzle and wide chest leave little doubt that “Dot” (whose name was carved on the top of the lacy collar she wears for posterity) was indeed a Pug!
Many cemeteries contain such moving tributes to beloved canine companions. In the silent language of tombstone iconography—where symbols often speak volumes—dogs often represent the prized virtues of vigilance, fidelity, loyalty, and watchfulness. The poignancy of such monuments—which appear to be standing guard over their fallen human companions—is hard to overlook.
