TAILS OF LAUGHTER

10 Hilarious Pet Names And Unbelievable Animal Stories Through History

Credit: Josh Rakower

In a world brimming with seriousness, sometimes a dash of humor in the most unexpected places can brighten our days. Some pet owners have come up with some clever or outright hilarious names for their furry, feathery, or finned friends. From political pigs to mayoral cats, here are ten instances where animals have left an enduring mark in history while making us smile at the same time.

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During the turbulent U.S. presidential race of 1968, the Youth International Party (whose members were called Yippies) nominated a pig named Pigasus for President of the United States. The nomination, though satirical, was meant to draw attention to their political dissent.

The unsuspecting 145-pound pig became a symbol of protest against the political establishment. While he didn't secure the presidency, his candidacy left an indelible mark on the era's counterculture.

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Roman Emperor Caligula had a favorite horse named Incitatus that lived a life of luxury. The steed had a marble stable, an ivory manger, and as many as 18 servants, all for himself. Caligula purportedly even planned to make Incitatus a consul, showcasing the eccentricity of his reign.

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A dynamic duo known to marine scientists for preying on Great White Sharks off the coasts of South Africa, these marine predators were identified for having distinct collapsed dorsal fins. This prompted the scientists to name them after nautical terms since Port's fin collapsed to the left and Starboard's collapsed to the right.

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P.T. Barnum's star attraction, Jumbo the elephant, earned his name due to his impressive size. Jumbo became a global sensation in the late 19th century, captivating audiences with his gentle demeanor, eventually becoming a synonym for something that is "extra large".

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At the University of York, a duck named Long Boi became a viral sensation due to his remarkable length of 2 feet 4 inches. Thought to be an Indian Runner duck-Mallard cross, and likely abandoned at the campus as an unwanted pet, Long Boi certainly stood out among the other ducks, and not just for his name. He captured the internet's affection and became a debated topic on talk shows and social media.

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During World War I, John Silver, a homing pigeon, delivered crucial messages that saved the lives of many soldiers. Knocked out of the air twice by cannon flak, he got back up both times and completed his mission. He lost an eye and a leg, so he was given an eye patch and a wooden leg, hence the name "Long John Silver". His courageous service earned him the Dickin Medal, something of a Victoria Cross for animals.

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Ironically, the tiny Yorkie known as Big Boss was once the title holder for the world's smallest living dog. Measuring 4.7 inches in height, 5.1 inches long, and weighing 1 pound, 1 ounce, he was the last non-chihuahua dog to claim the elusive title.

Credit: Kier Allen

In Connecticut, a beefalo named Buddy made headlines after escaping a slaughterhouse. While his name was nothing out of the ordinary, as far as animal names go, managing to evade capture for over seven months, Buddy became the most wanted fugitive in the state and a nationwide symbol of resilience and freedom.

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In Halifax, a black-and-white cat named Tuxedo Stan ran for mayor in a satirical campaign. He quickly achieved international attention and was even endorsed by Ellen DeGeneres and Anderson Cooper. While he unfortunately didn't win, his candidacy was successful in raising awareness about animal welfare and neutering efforts. After all, who can say no to a cat in a tuxedo?

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Renowned as one of the fiercest bucking bulls in rodeo history, Chicken on a Chain (can you believe this name?) delivered breathtaking performances in the arena. And his hilarious name was, in fact, a nod to the unpredictability of his dangerously explosive bursts.