Life — May 10, 1917 — page 1: what you’re looking at

What you’re looking at

This cartoon depicts a dog wearing a Red Cross armband, standing beneath an American shield, with the caption "Count on Me." Published just weeks after America's entry into World War I (April 1917), this image represents the American public's mobilization for the war effort. The dog symbolizes American loyalty and readiness to serve. The Red Cross imagery references humanitarian relief and medical support for the war. The shield represents American national identity and protection. The cartoon's message is patriotic encouragement—even animals are "counted on" to support the national cause. This reflects the broad civilian mobilization propaganda of early American involvement in WWI, appealing to citizens' sense of duty and collective responsibility for the war effort.