How did the dog "Higgins" get his name?
In the fall of 1962, a show by the name of "Our Man
Higgins" debuted on ABC-TV. It starred Stanley Holloway as
Higgins, a British butler. From the article in this Nov. 3-9, 1962
TV Guide:
"I like the character of Higgins," announces Holloway,
settling himself into an armchair. "Higgins is a splendid fellow,
really. He's a typical English butler - civilized, pedantic,
old-fashioned about life. He's a good servant, a member of the
family, yet he knows his position. A man about the house who is
both butler and valet, who takes complete charge. A most useful
person." Holloway nods vigorously. "Most useful."
Around this same time, Frank Inn was the trainer for the dog
named "Smiley" on the show "Hazel". Frank liked the maid/butler
shows and really liked the name "Higgins". He wanted to use the
name for the most extraordinary dog he had ever worked with, but
decided not to do so if the show was successful.
Well, the show didn't make it; hence, Frank's special dog was
named "Higgins".
