Barney, President George W. Bush’s dog, has died of lymphoma, one of the most common forms of cancer in dogs. “Barney was by my side during our eight years in the White House,” Bush said of the Scottish terrier, and the Washington Post reports on Friday, Feb. 1. “He never discussed politics and was always a faithful friend. Laura and I will miss our pal.”
Actually, Barney belonged to Laura. He was a birthday gift from then-Governor Christine Todd Whitman, of New Jersey, for the presidential candidate’s future first lady’s birthday in 2000. While George W. Bush was in the White House, Barney had his own web site and was he subject of regular videos. President Bush may have had his problems, but most people love a dog.
George and Laura Bush have another Scottish terrier, Miss Beazley, which the president gave to his wife as a gift – possibly because he sees to have usurped possession of the original birthday gift. The Bush’s dog died peacefully, after a long battle with the lymphoma.
Part of the presidential message reads: “Laura and I are sad to announce that our Scottish Terrier, Barney, has passed away. The little fellow had been suffering from lymphoma and after twelve and a half years of life, his body could not fight off the illness …
“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. Barney greeted Queens, Heads of State, and Prime Ministers …
“Laura and I will miss our pal.” Rest in peace.
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