Judge — June 22, 1918 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cover depicts a small black-and-white dog sitting alone outside a house, with the caption "It's Awful Lonesome Now." The title "Wild and Mild Animal Number" suggests a humorous animal-themed issue. The likely reference is to World War I—the United States entered the war in 1917, and by June 1918, many men had been drafted or volunteered for military service. The dog's loneliness probably represents the pets (and families) left behind by departing soldiers. This sentiment was a common theme in wartime humor, playing on the domestic impact of the war by personifying animals awaiting their absent owners' return. The illustration is by Will Rannells, a Judge contributor.