Animal heroes - David Long

The PDSA Dickin Medal (regarded as the animals' Victoria Cross) has been awarded to just 64 animals, from the Blitz to present day, for their courage in times of crisis. Among these incredible true-life stories you will meet.

G.I. Joe the plucky pigeon, who rescued over 100 lives by flying twenty miles in twenty minutes to deliver a message in World War II.

Theo the steadfast springer spaniel, who served as a bomb-detection dog in Afghanistan.

Rip the trusty mongrel, who saved many victims of the Blitz air-raids.

Olga the courageous police horse, who bolted from the path of a flying bomb in World War II only to return to the scene and remain on duty.

These heart-warming tales of gallantry and devotion will stay with you long after you turn the pages.

Previously published as The Animals' VC.