Whatever happened to Lassie?

June 20, 6:57 PMDogs ExaminerStephanie Modkins

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          LASSIE  (photo by M. Stella/Wikipedia Commons)

Lassie is the stage name for one of the most well known actors of the past six decades. He was a two-toned (mahogany/sable) Collie that engaged us for the first time in the 1943 movie re-enactment of a popular novel called "Lassie Come Home." In this novel, a female dog named Lassie is sold into a rich family leaving her poverty-stricken owner (a Yorkshire boy) alone. However, her bond with him is so strong that she eventually flees from her new abode back into his arms. This story line moved people in such a way that studio execs created several productions based on its premise. This led to fame and fortune for the dog that played Lassie. So, whatever happened to him?

The real life Lassie was a dog named "Pal". Pal worked for MGM from 1943 until 1954 when he retired. Animal trainers Frank Weatherwax, Rudd Weatherwax and Frank Inn handled him. This trio trained Pal to do tricks and stunts for the big and little screen. Rudd Weatherwax even wrote a book about Pal that was published after his (Pal's) retirement called, "The Story of Lassie: His Discovery and Training from Puppyhood to Stardom." Off screen, Pal was quite the opposite from the character he played for millions of people.

Unlike the fictional character of Lassie, Pal lived a superstar's life. Custom food, special grooming and a Hollywood star on the Walk of Fame were all a part of his life. Pal was male and bred children. His descendants - Lassie Junior, Spook, Baby, Mire and Hey Hey - actually took his place in the 1950's television series of Lassie after he ended his career. They carried on the "Lassie" tradition for several decades later - even after Pal's death in 1958.

Pal's legacy lives on today through children's books, old movies and late night televisions. And - of course, the occasional re-make or start up of a Lassie movie. As a canine, he has accomplished more in Hollywood than many actors over the past century. So, whatever happened to Lassie? Not much. He still lives on in our hearts today.