Former President Barack Obama took to social media on Wednesday to share the sad news that Sunny, the Obamas’ beloved Portuguese water dog, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 13. The family first welcomed Sunny into the White House in 2013, during the second term of President Obama’s administration.
Sunny’s place in the Obama household
In his post, President Obama recalled how the Obamas instantly fell in love with Sunny, noting that she joined the family alongside their first dog, Bo. “We got Sunny at the start of our second term in the White House, and all of us – including our first dog, Bo – immediately fell in love,” he wrote.
Obama described Sunny as an athletic, energetic companion who was fiercely protective of Bo. Despite being a water‑loving breed, Sunny famously disliked getting wet, a quirk that amused the family and staff alike.
Remembering a loyal companion
“We will miss her terribly, and imagine she’s with her big brother now, making sure he’s okay,” Obama added, expressing the deep bond the family shared with their canine friend. Bo, the Obamas’ earlier Portuguese water dog, died in 2021, making Sunny the last of the family’s presidential pets.
A tradition of presidential pets
Sunny joins a long line of dogs that have lived in the White House, each leaving its own mark on American history. George H.W. Bush’s English springer spaniel, Millie, authored a bestselling book titled “Millie’s Book.” Bill Clinton’s chocolate Labrador retriever, Buddy, was a constant presence during the tumultuous years of the Clinton administration. George W. Bush’s Scottish terrier, Barney, became an internet sensation with his own web page and the popular “Barneycam” videos. Even earlier, President Lyndon B. Johnson sparked controversy when he lifted his beagle, Him, by the ears in front of news photographers, prompting animal‑lover criticism.
President Harry S. Truman famously advised, “If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog,” underscoring the enduring role of pets in providing comfort and companionship to those serving the nation.
Why presidential pets matter
Beyond their personal significance to the families who care for them, presidential pets often become symbols of the human side of the highest office. They appear in official photographs, participate in public events, and sometimes even influence public perception of a president’s character. The Obamas’ dogs, Bo and Sunny, were featured in numerous White House videos and social‑media posts, offering a glimpse into family life behind the political spotlight.
President Obama’s tribute to Sunny reflects the broader sentiment that pets, especially in the nation’s most visible residence, serve as reminders of shared values such as loyalty, love, and the simple joys of companionship.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
