Royal Cats and Dogs

The origins of this rhyme go back to the history of 16th century Tudor England.  

Pussy cat, pussy cat, where have you been?

I've been to London to visit the Queen.

Pussy cat, pussy cat, what did you there?

 I chased a little mouse right under the chair.

 An old cat owned by one of the staff to the royal household, went underneath the throne and its tail brushed against the Queen's foot, startling her. The Queen had a sense of humor and allowed the cat to wander the throne room on condition it kept the mice away.

But Queen Elizabeth II may not fancy cats as she does dogs.  She has owned more than 30 corgis during her reign, starting with Susan who was a present for her 18th birthday in 1944. A good proportion of these have been direct descendants from Susan.  In her famous Launer bag which she carries wherever she goes, she keeps some treats for her dogs.

The corgis have enjoyed life as Britain's most privileged pets. They live in palaces and castles, travel in chauffeur-driven limousines, fly by private plane and carried down by aides.  Jealous, pussy cat?



PHOTO: The Queen is greeted by local corgi enthusiasts in May 2005 during a state visit to Canada.