Bum

Is the somewhat unfortunate name of this dog to be found in St Cuthbert's Kirkyard. I was out with my photography class and went looking for things I hadn't photographed before, which included Bum. Edinburgh is apparently twinned with San Diego where the original statue of Bum is to be found. Here's some information about him:
 
“Bum’s story begins with him likely being born in San Francisco and arriving in San Diego after boarding a boat. Seen as a mutt, Bum was mostly left to his own devices and was a scrappy stray. When he got into a fight with another dog that led to both of them being hit by a train, a local veterinarian amputated one of Bum’s front legs, and it’s said his personality changed after the incident.

It seems Bum’s accident gave him a bon-vivant attitude, as he began to ignore food handed out to him that did not interest him but would gladly accept more elaborate treats. He would also show up to high society parties and gained such fame that his image adorned all pet licenses issued in San Diego. Bum eventually died in 1898 and was honoured with a sculpture in the iconic Gaslamp District.”

In exchange for the statue of Bum, Edinburgh gave San Diego a statue of Greyfriar’s Bobby. So I learned something new today.