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Huskies ‘heave-ho’ on Postage Stamps
‘Husky’ is a generic term used to identify dogs bred to pull sleds. The variety of breeds is clearly distinguished on postage stamps which feature the husky which is specific to that country. In 2003, Greenland issued a set of husky stamps featuring puppies, adults and dogs in harness. The Alaskan husky portrayed is a category defined only by its purpose of being a highly efficient sled-dog. The Siberian husky was shown on a postage stamp issued by Benin in 1997. This tiny nation, located between Nigeria and Togo, honoured the Siberian breed for its role as a village dog used for sled pulling.
Romania, a small nation in south-eastern Europe bordering the Black Sea, released a stamp in 1982 picturing the Alaskan husky. It is shown in harness and working as a team member in pulling a sled over snow. Canada showcased its own special husky, the Tahitian Bear Dog, on a postage stamp released in 1988. Along with the ability to pull sleds, this breed is also able to be effectively trained as a retriever. The Canadian Eskimo dog also features in this set of stamps issued specifically as a block of four to honour the four breeds native to Canada.
In 1965, Russia issued a set of stamps to acknowledge both its ‘hunting and service’ dogs. The husky was depicted on the 12K version. A number of Russian provinces have also issued postage stamps to recognise the significant role that this breed of dog has in regions which spend months of each year snow-bound. Abkashia, a province near the Caspian Sea, showcased both the Siberian and Alaskan huskies whilst Daghestan immortalizes the Red Siberian husky in its 12K50 version issued in 1988.
Israel acknowledged its Sloughi on a postage stamp released in 1987. This category of husky is distinctive with its black and white colouring and prominent ‘widow’s peak’ defining the eye area.
A series titled ‘The Last Huskies’ was issued by the Australian Antarctic Territories in 1984. This series features the Siberian and Alaskan husky as well as the Alaskan malamute. The dogs are shown in all areas of work and life with the expedition team. From quietly resting, feeding and sled-pulling, the huskies are also shown simply enjoying an Antarctic sunset.
This magnificent, resilient breed of dog has been an asset to many nations for a variety of reasons. Their ability to endure and enjoy the snow embedded regions of the world has made them unique. The dog drivers regard them as truly special and this is reflected by the diversity of imprints etched onto postage stamps. The stamps definitely highlight the importance of these dogs to both man and their nation.
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