Chapter 2 – Pets Are Expatriates Too
Discover the inspiring stories of expatriates featured on @WeAreXpats through this article series, written by our dedicated PR volunteer, Aleksandra. Through these narratives, Aleksandra aims to capture the voices of those who generously shared their experiences as part of the @WeAreXpats initiative. Click here to explore the initiative further.
So far, I've visited Scotland twice, both times exploring Edinburgh with its fairytale streets, astonishing castles, and vibrant green gardens. As a visitor from Poland, I couldn't help but notice a small Polish accent in the heart of the capital. Wojtek the Soldier Bear Memorial, a bronze statue in the Princess Street Gardens, pays tribute to the bear who served during the Second World War.
Visiting the Princess Street Gardens
Wojtek the bear's journey to Scotland began in Iran in 1943. Adopted by Polish soldiers of the 2nd Corps—formed from political prisoners released by Stalin—Wojtek quickly became a beloved morale booster as they headed west to join the fight against the Axis powers. By the time they reached Egypt, preparing for deployment to Italy, Wojtek had grown into a full-sized bear who knew how to salute, swim, and carry supplies. He served throughout the war, notably assisting during the Battle of Monte Cassino by standing upright to move ammunition crates with his paws. His popularity led to the bear carrying an artillery shell becoming the 22nd Company's emblem. After the war, Wojtek and his company settled in Scotland. Many soldiers, having experienced Soviet repression, chose to remain in Great Britain rather than return to Poland under the Iron Curtain and communist influence.
It is strange to imagine a bear fighting side by side with soldiers. While I find Wojtek’s story unique and fascinating, I feel for the bear who did not get to live an ordinary bear life in the wild, far from humans and their wars. Nevertheless, the thought of an animal bringing hope in the dark times makes me somewhat grateful, making me wish we appreciated nature more.
I often think about the bear while scrolling through the @WeAreXpats on X account. Animals do not need to be war heroes to make valuable expatriate partners. For many, it is the pets' presence that helps them assimilate quickly and feel less lonely. The @WeAreXpats profile is full of stories about pets on remarkable journeys, far from home and into the unknown.
Finding a Common Language
Living temporarily in Austin, I spent a lot of time with my host family’s dog Maisel. Besides being a cheerful and exceptionally energetic dog, she was also one of the first American pets I have encountered.
At first, speaking English felt unnatural. Pets do not talk but as it turns out, they do understand a lot. I had never thought much about it—all the dogs I had met were Polish. Years later I moved to the Netherlands. This time, having to deal with Dutch dogs, I struggled even more, not knowing much of the local language.
As an expatriate, I know that living abroad can be a roller-coaster of emotions—excitement, homesickness, facing the challenge of adapting to new cultures and overcoming language barriers.
When we feel lost, trying to make a new place feel like home, pets remind us of the universality of love, loyalty, and the need for companionship. Animals symbolise adaptability, whether it’s a bear carrying artillery shells in a war or a dog providing comfort in a new city. Just as Wojtek found a home among Polish soldiers and later in a Scottish zoo, we too find unexpected connections in the most unfamiliar places.
In the end, the journey of an expatriate—whether human or animal—is not just about discovering new lands, but about finding and fostering connections that make those lands feel less foreign.