A Special Look Back At "Old Yeller"
- Aug 3, 2025
- 1 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Welcome to Pet Talk, an occasional column about homeless pets and related topics.

Dog lovers of a certain age might remember the 1957 classic movie “Old Yeller.” If so, here are some interesting words from one of the main actors, Beverly Washburn, about that touching film: “What some of you animal lovers might be interested to know, is that Old Yeller, whose real name was Spike, was a rescue dog! They found him in a shelter and trained him. Unlike “Lassie” and “Rin Tin Tin” where they had numerous Collies and German Shepherds all playing the same role, there was only One Old Yeller. He did every scene. He was an amazing dog who did an amazing job. If I remember right, his dressing room was even bigger than mine!”
That’s a mighty good plug for rescue dogs, wouldn’t you say? In short, they’re all special!
So if you’re seeking one or more loving companions please schedule a meet-and-greet by phoning Flathead County Animal Shelter at (406) 752-1310.
And did you know about the low adoption fees and other incentives at Flathead County Animal Shelter? For example, Flathead Shelter Friends offers a Senior Pet Voucher, which pays up to $350 toward veterinary care for 7+ year-old adopted pets. For more information please contact Flathead County Animal Shelter at 406-752-1310 or visit https://flatheadcounty.gov/department-directory/animal.
Pet Talk is produced by Flathead Shelter Friends Inc., an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information visit www.flatheadshelterfriends.org.
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