Helen Keller’s life was filled with remarkable achievements—she was an author, activist, and a pioneer for people with disabilities. Despite being both deaf and blind, she overcame immense challenges to become one of the most inspiring figures in history.
But beyond her public accomplishments, Keller had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, who provided her with companionship and comfort.
One of her most touching canine connections was with a Boston Terrier named Sir Thomas, also known as Phiz. Unlike her other dogs, who were chosen for her or gifted by admirers, Phiz seemed to choose her.
During a visit to a kennel, the small dog—despite being known as independent and aloof—ran straight to Keller, forming an instant bond. Moved by the connection, her friends at Radcliffe College secretly raised funds to buy the dog for her, leading to a heartwarming reunion.
In this post, we’ll explore the incredible story of Sir Thomas (Phiz), the dog who found his perfect companion in Helen Keller, and how this special relationship reflected her lifelong appreciation for kindness, friendship, and the unwavering love of animals.
Helen Keller’s History with Dogs
Helen Keller’s love for dogs was well-documented throughout her life. She had several canine companions who provided her with comfort, joy, and companionship.
Among her most famous dogs were the two Akitas she received from Japan in the 1930s. These dogs were gifts from a Japanese police officer who had read about Keller’s admiration for the breed. Her first Akita, Kamikaze, quickly became a beloved companion, but sadly passed away from illness at a young age.
Deeply moved by Keller’s grief, the Japanese government sent her a second Akita named Kenzan, making her one of the first Americans to own the breed.
Keller spoke highly of the Akitas, praising their loyalty and intelligence. She described them as gentle and affectionate, reinforcing her belief in the profound emotional connection between humans and animals.
While her Akitas are among the best-known of her pets, she had many other dogs throughout her life, all of whom played a meaningful role in providing companionship and comfort.
It was this deep love for dogs that led to her fateful meeting with Sir Thomas (Phiz), the Boston Terrier who seemed to choose her as his owner.
Sir Thomas (Phiz): The Dog Who Chose Helen Keller
Helen Keller’s bond with Sir Thomas, also known as Phiz, began with an unexpected moment of connection. While visiting the kennels of Dr. J.V. Mott in Newton, Massachusetts, Keller encountered a small Boston Terrier who would change her life.
Despite being described as independent and selective with his affections, Phiz defied expectations by running directly to Keller. He pressed against her, rubbed his nose on her skirt, and placed his chin on her knee—clear signs of attachment.
Dr. Mott, surprised by the dog’s behavior, warned that Phiz was not usually quick to befriend people. However, nothing could deter the Boston Terrier from staying close to Keller. Even when his owner tried to lure him away, Phiz remained fixated on his newfound friend. The connection was immediate and undeniable.
At the time, Keller was unable to take the dog home, but her friends at Radcliffe College recognized how much the encounter had meant to her. Determined to reunite Keller with Phiz, they set out to make him hers.
The Radcliffe College Fundraiser
Helen Keller’s friends at Radcliffe College were deeply moved by her connection with Sir Thomas (Phiz). Knowing how much the dog had meant to her during their brief encounter at Dr. J.V. Mott’s kennels, they decided to raise the money needed to purchase him.
A small group of close friends, including Radcliffe students Miss Sherman of Commonwealth Avenue and Miss Cutten of Roxbury, took the lead in organizing the effort. They limited contributions to only Keller’s closest friends, ensuring that the gift remained personal and meaningful.
Together, they quickly raised $100—the price set for the Boston Terrier. Dr. Mott, recognizing the significance of the gesture, agreed to sell the dog for less than he might have otherwise charged.
Once the funds were collected, a group of about 20 friends, including Keller’s teacher Anne Sullivan, gathered at Dr. Mott’s office for the official presentation. As soon as Phiz was let loose, he instinctively ran to Keller once again, placing his paws on her lap in recognition.
Overcome with emotion, Keller dropped to the floor, held the dog close, and asked, “Is it mine? Is this Sir Thomas?” When she was assured that he was now hers, she responded simply, “It is Sir Thomas.”
Grateful for the kindness of her friends, Keller expressed her thanks, saying, “I shall love the dog, but even more, your kindness, and I thank you all so very much—and you, too, Dr. Mott.”
Following the presentation, Keller held a small gathering with her friends to celebrate the occasion, marking the beginning of a new chapter with her beloved Boston Terrier.
>>> See more famous Boston Terrier owners
The Significance of Sir Thomas (Phiz) in Helen Keller’s Life
Helen Keller’s bond with Sir Thomas (Phiz) was a powerful example of the deep connection she felt with animals. Throughout her life, dogs provided her with companionship, comfort, and a sense of joy.
Phiz was unique because he seemed to choose Keller, forming an instant attachment that left a lasting impression on both of them.
Although there are few records detailing Keller’s daily life with Phiz, her love for dogs suggests that he was a cherished companion. Her friends at Radcliffe College recognized how much the dog meant to her and went out of their way to ensure that he became hers.
Their thoughtful gesture not only reunited Keller with Phiz but also demonstrated the kindness and generosity that surrounded her.
While Keller’s Akitas became more well known, Phiz’s story is a quieter but equally touching reminder of the special role dogs played in her life. His devotion to her, from their first meeting to their reunion, speaks to the strong and unspoken bonds that can form between humans and animals.
Sources:
- Freeland tribune. (Freeland, Pa.), 06 June 1902. Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers. Lib. of Congress. https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/lccn/sn87080287/1902-06-06/ed-1/seq-3/
- The New York Times. 1902. “Helen Keller’s Talk.” The New York Times, February 9, 1902.
- Unknown contemporary newspaper article.