As is the custom today, people attended church services in the 16th century. And, just as it is today, all worshipers were welcomed in the Lord's House – even dogs. Members of the congregation would often bring their dogs to church, or the dogs would follow their owners there. Either way, the need for a canine babysitter became apparent as the number of animal congregants increased. Churches in England and parts of Europe, found themselves needing the services of people who would tend to the dogs in case the animals engaged in disruptive behaviors: fighting, attacking members, and being noisy. Thus, the occupation of “dog whipper” was created.
A dog whipper was a legitimate job and employee whose primary responsibility was to ensure the
A dog whipper was a legitimate job and employee whose primary responsibility was to ensure the