Supporters

In heraldry, supporters are figures placed on either side of the shield and depicted holding it up. These figures may be real or fantastic animals, human figures, or (more rarely) plants or inanimate objects.

This example, the Coat of Arms of Prince Edward Island, uses two foxes as supporters.

Supporters are typically an example of special royal favour, granted at the behest of the sovereign.

heraldry series
Shield - Mantling - Supporters - Compartment - Motto - Crest