Former first dog Barney Bush has passed away at the age of 12 after suffering from lymphatic cancer.
The feisty Scottish terrier was often seen beside President George W. Bush during the 8 years of his presidency, was best known for biting reporters and for his “Barney Cam” videos of the White House each Christmas season. He also helped reopen the executive mansion after it was closed to tourists following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
"Barney greeted queens, heads of state and prime ministers. He was always polite and never jumped in their laps," , recalled Bush, who added that “He never discussed politics and was always a faithful friend.”
Following his retirement from politics, Barney was a frequent companion of the president and his wife, Laura on frequent walks at the Bush ranch in Crawford, TX, and was said to have been a "fierce armadillo hunter."
His passing is mourned by the entire Bush family, including fellow Scottish Terrier Miss Beazley, whose feeling are best summarized by former first daughter Jenna Bush-Hager who tweeted a painting of Barney, saying, "All dogs go to heaven. RIP Barney, September 30, 2000 - February 1, 2013."
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