Horses and Mules: Horses and mules were the primary means of transportation for troops, supplies, and artillery during the war. Millions of these animals were used by all sides of the conflict. However, the conditions of war were harsh for these animals as they faced inadequate food, poor sanitation, and exposure to enemy fire. It is estimated that about 8 million horses and mules died during the war.
Pigeons: Pigeons were widely used for communication purposes, especially when telephone lines were cut off or unreliable. They carried messages between troops on the front lines and headquarters. Pigeons were trained to fly specific routes and could deliver messages even under heavy fire. It was estimated that over 100,000 pigeons were used by different armies during the war.
Dogs: Dogs were primarily employed for scouting, sentry duty, and messenger service. They were able to detect the presence of enemy troops and could navigate difficult terrain. Dogs also provided companionship and emotional support to soldiers in the trenches. Some dogs were even trained to carry medical supplies or explosives.
Camels: Camels were used by the British and Ottoman armies in arid regions like Mesopotamia and the Sinai Peninsula. They provided transportation for troops and supplies, especially in areas where there was a shortage of water and vegetation.
Elephants: Elephants were deployed by the British army in the African theaters of the war. They were used for transportation, carrying supplies, and clearing paths through dense vegetation.
Carrier Animals: Some animals, such as cats and dogs, were used for carrying messages attached to their collars or harnesses.
Veterinary Services: During the war, veterinary services were established to care for the health and well-being of military animals. This included providing medical treatment, vaccinations, and sanitation measures to prevent the spread of diseases.
After the war, many animals were either injured, disabled, or traumatized by their experiences. Some were rehabilitated and found new homes, while others had to be euthanized due to their severe condition. The use of animals in warfare raised concerns about animal welfare and led to the development of animal protection laws and organizations in the aftermath of the war.