Senator Kennedy Weighs In On the Obama Puppy Choice
Pet lovers around the world continue to chomp at the bit as we wait for further news about which breed of dog is destined to become the new "first pet."
While President Obama has narrowed his choices between the Portuguese water dog and the Labradoodle, (a mix of the Labrador retriever and the Poodle), according to an article at "eXaminer.com, Senator Ted Kennedy of Massachusetts has also offered advice to our President supporting one of these choices.
Senator Kennedy strongly suggests that the Obamas pick the Portuguese water dog to add to their family. In a written statement, Senator Kennedy indicated that," A Portuguese water dog is the perfect choice for first dog, The Obama girls -- and their parents -- will love a Portuguese water dog. They're loyal, smart, loving and they became a real part of the family. And they definitely do not shed."
Photo of Cappy credit: WBZ
Sunny and Splash, Senator Kennedy's two of his three Portuguese water dogs, frequently accompany him to work at the Senate. He remarked that, "They love being around people and being part of the action," His third is a puppy named Captains Courageous, nicknamed, "Cappy."
He further remarked, "I am proud to endorse the Portuguese water dog as the next First Dog of the United States. They have a can do and hopeful spirit. They are smart. They are resilient. They are determined. They are optimistic. And they are tireless. Sounds like a perfect fit for the Obama Family and the Obama Administration."
I wonder if Senator Kennedy's suggestion will influence President Obama to consider this beautiful breed, with such a strong endorsement. After all, this suggestion is completely bi-pawtisan.
What are your thoughts about the Portuguese water dog taking up residence at the White House? Bark us a few comments and let us know.
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Comments (8)
Anonymous February 3, 2009 2:50 PM
I think most people would endorse their own breed of dog to the Obama's. Everyone thinks their breed is the best. But I believe the Obama's will do their homework and choose the dog that best suits their family and lifestyle.
Anonymous February 3, 2009 2:52 PM
I think that they need to go to a shelter and find a dog to adopt. So many beautiful dogs waiting for a home and not getting chosen. Enough Said.
Anonymous February 3, 2009 3:28 PM
OK first of all, I tend to go with mixed breeds myself. Nothing against pure breds mind you. I feel mixed breed usually pick up the strongest genes from all their back rounds.
I also believe in getting a new pet at local animal rescue groups. Giving a new pet a new life is rewarded ten fold. They seem to know they are given a second chance at life. There are also many pure breds available at breed rescue groups. So I say adopt a homeless pet no matter what background. Save a life.
Anonymous February 3, 2009 4:13 PM
What's wrong with adopting a shelter dog and saving a life! Is he too good for a shelter dog? I am sick if hearing about certain breeds all the time...people need to start taking action and stop all this special breeding and start thinking about saving all the unwanted little animals waiting at the shelter for a home...or their death!!! I have 33 cats, all alley cats, and they are all loving, beautiful, and giving little creatures. Obama thinks he is TOO GOOD for a shelter dog!
Anonymous February 3, 2009 7:59 PM
Dear Water-Doggie,
Thanks for not shedding. I think the first-girls will love U...
pamie
Anonymous February 4, 2009 11:35 AM
I think the Obama's are waiting until the the chaos and excitement of the new home and new school wears off for the girls before they choose the new first dog. As for purebred vs mutt, I personally lean toward the mixed breeds but have nothing against purebreds. I raised and showed Norwegian Elkhounds for several years and loved them as much as my mutts. Another thing to think of is Portuguese Water Dog rescue groups. These dogs have had the same misfortune as the shelter dogs. Should they be penalized for merely being purebreds?
Anonymous February 4, 2009 3:32 PM
:::jumping in here::: President Obama, even prior to being elected to the office, shared that his preference was to adopt a "mutt" since he considers himself in that light also.
This being said, the reason his choices have been reduced to these two breeds is due to a major allergy which his older daughter Malia suffers from.
More about this can be viwed at
http://www.webmd.com/allergies/news/20081112/hypoallergenic-dogs-dog-allergies-faq
A mutt was his first choice! This is also the reason the first family cannot adopt a cat, either.
Jo Singer
Anonymous March 5, 2009 5:55 PM
Thanks to the person who pointed out that there are rescued 'pure-breeds'. Having had both 'mutts' and a pure breed poodle (and now a Portuguese Water Dog), one should have the 'good match' for their family. I bet many of the 'rescue/shelter dog only' folks do have their own children and didn't adopt!
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