Movieline Remembers: 65 Years of Television Pets
Astro, The Jetsons (1962 - 1963)
Voiced By: Don Messick
Classification: Talking Dog (Breed unknown)
Memorable Storyline: In an episode called "Millionaire Astro", the Jetsons discover that their dog was previously owned by zillionaire J.P. Gottrockets and return him to his rightful owner. After Gottrockets realizes that Astro is unhappy without his new family, he returns him.
Lassie, Lassie (1954 - 1973)
Played By: Pal and five of his descendants: Lassie Junior, Spook, Baby, Mire and Hey Hey
Classification: Dog (Collie)
Memorable Storylines: Jeff and Lassie got into their fair share of trouble during the show's 19 year run, including meeting convicts in the woods, fighting bigotry when a Japanese exchange student attracted insults from neighbors who never got over World War II and in one ambitious episode, printing newspapers for pocket change.
Rin Tin Tin, The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin (1954 - 1959)
Played By: Rin Tin Tin IV (fourth in the bloodline of the actual Rin Tin Tin), J.R, Hey You
Classification: Dog (German Shepherd)
Memorable Storyline: After an Indian raid left Rin Tin Tin and his owner Rust orphaned, they were adopted by Fort Apache AZ troops and regularly helped maintain order in Mesa Grande.
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Comments
where is Brandon?! What about Punky Brewster... i'd like to speak to the manager.
What about Florida's own Flipper? He outswam a tidal wave in one memorable episode.
yes! Marcel is included and thus, mes amis, is how i came up with my nom de snark. Marcel was always the smart one amongst the friends. the smart monkey.
I've got a call into PETA to see if it's acceptable to classify a horse as a pet, but, if it is, where the heck is Mr. Ed on this list?
No Mister Ed?
How do you honestly forget Scooby-Doo?
I still remember Matthew with Ross, and when Matthew grab Ross`s finger. They are happy when having each other.
Scooby-Doo is a pretty big ommition. Nonetheless, it's rather interesting how forgettable the characters are at first glance, then realizing when they are showcased like this list, just how big of a role these animals really had on their respective shows.