The former first dog has died. On Feb. 1, The Houston Chronicle reported that George W. Bush and his wife, Laura, are mourning the loss of their family pet, Barney. The beloved Scottish Terrier was suffering from lymphoma and lost his battle. He was 12-years-old.
"Barney greeted Queens, Heads of State, and Prime Ministers. He was always polite and never jumped in their laps. Barney was by my side during our eight years in the White House. He never discussed politics and was always a faithful friend. Laura and I will miss our pal," former President George W. Bush said in a statement.
The former first dog that died will be sorely missed by his family. As Bush states, he was very loved and it sounds like he had a good life during his healthy years. It is never easy to lose a pet and George couldn't resist sharing some of his fondest memories about Barney.
"Barney and I enjoyed the outdoors. He loved to accompany me when I fished for bass at the ranch. He was a fierce armadillo hunter. At Camp David, his favorite activity was chasing golf balls on the chipping green. Barney guarded the South Lawn entrance of the White House as if he were a Secret Service agent. He wandered the halls of the West Wing looking for treats from his many friends. He starred in Barney Cam and gave the American people Christmas tours of the White House," Bush said.
The former first dog can't be replaced but since he died, many wonder if George and Laura will get another pup to help fill the void.
© Effie Orfanides 2013
