Prez Pup Coming to Obama White House Tuesday [Archive]

Patriot

04-11-2009, 01:11 AM

sheesh what happened to all that Obamababble about a rescue dog from a shelter?

Why am I not surprised to hear that the Obama pup comes from a top breeder in Texas that has long furnished the wealthy Kennedy clan with appropriately pedigreed pooches... :rolleyes:

So much for setting a good example by giving a poor rescue dog a home :crying:

I don't follow the Obama's much, as I'm not a fan, so pardon me for my ignorance. Had they said previously that they were going to get a dog from a shelter? If so, what changed their mind?

Charms

04-11-2009, 03:05 AM

Finally. The White House is alive again.
Malia and Sasha deserve whatever puppy they want, after all they are the first daughters of the nation. I hate to babble, but they are so cute and adorable and Michelle is a wonderful mom and first lady.
The promise is complete.

Baroness

04-11-2009, 08:23 AM

That dog looks like it will need a lot of grooming.

I'm a cat person. If I leave for a few days, it doesn't matter. She travels well, too. Love my kitty.:wub:

I like dogs, but they require too much maintenance.

Having dogs is like having little kids---gotta get a babysitter or take them with you.

Cats are like teenagers. Leave them enough food and clean their "area" before you leave---when you come back all the food will be gone and their "area" will be a disaster. But they'll be fine.

Kate

Banditta

04-11-2009, 08:35 AM

Baroness

04-11-2009, 08:42 AM

And another big issue for you to sink your teeth into. :lol: btw, I luv your NIC.

Yep, lets condemn the President. Pizza parties and puppies. How dare he.

Kate

Katt2

04-11-2009, 08:45 AM

sheesh what happened to all that Obamababble about a rescue dog from a shelter?

Why am I not surprised to hear that the Obama pup comes from a top breeder in Texas that has long furnished the wealthy Kennedy clan with appropriately pedigreed pooches... :rolleyes:

So much for setting a good example by giving a poor rescue dog a home :crying:

Mahlia has allergies and it is possible they couldn't find a completely hypoallergenic free breed from a shelter.

YoYo

04-11-2009, 08:47 AM

Yep, lets condemn the President. Pizza parties and puppies. How dare he.

Kate

Yet, people continue to post on BOTH threads. :confused:

Baroness

04-11-2009, 08:49 AM

Mahlia has allergies and it is possible they couldn't find a completely hypoallergenic free breed from a shelter.

My understanding is that Mahlia and Sasha were in charge of researching breeds. They picked the Portugese Water Dog. It's not a common breed and not often found in shelters.

Sen Kennedy has two that travel with him all the time, I'm sure the girls fell for his and wanted one of their own.

Kate

Kelly3820

04-11-2009, 08:52 AM

Tokyo Rose

04-11-2009, 10:17 AM

The pup is about 6 months old. Chances are he has been obedience trained and neutered, I hope, before leaving the kennel. They will probably have a groomer come to the White House for him too. I don't know much about the breed, but the picture of one in the article looks like a big, floppy, funny, type. That large snout is so cute. I'd keep him looking shaggy myself.

Tokyo Rose

04-11-2009, 10:24 AM

IIRC Michelle had mentioned at one time maybe getting two dogs. They may not be through yet. Poodle mixes are hypo allergenic and they can be found at shelters.

Maybe they are just waiting to see how it goes with one dog first.

interested

04-11-2009, 10:25 AM

crocdog1

04-11-2009, 10:40 AM

Looks like they have chosen a dog who needs lots of attention & grooming. Guess we will have an official White House Dog Groomer/Trainer now.

http://www.akc.org/breeds/portuguese_water_dog/index.cfm

Not nearly as much grooming as my GSD/Mix, warhorse.

My sweetie-pie sheds her weight in hair, daily. I can't believe it! the more I groom, the more she sheds.

joolz

04-11-2009, 10:43 AM

Yes, the Pres himself said they were looking in shelters for a rescue dog. :rolleyes:

I guess in ALL the shelters in the entire country there wasn't one single dog that filled the bill... pretty hard when your requirements are "A dog from the same texas breeder that has supplied the Kennedy family"

No change... just more of the same :wink:

As someone involved in dog rescue, I'd like to clear up your misconceptions:

There is a rescue for every single AKC dog breed, as well as shelters and private rescues. The breed rescues get PLENTY of displaced, unwanted, neglected dogs who need homes.

There are PLENTY of breeders who gets older pups (and even adults) returned to them for any number of reasons. Legitimate breeders will very often guarantee that they will take their own dogs back if the home situation does not work out. These breeders often have a difficult time finding new homes for older dogs (and yes, even six months old is "older" for a lot of people).

The dog park I go to has two purebred Salukis, 4-5 Bouviers, a Great Pyrenees and several other purebred dogs who were rescued in various ways - from being rehomed by their breeders to found wandering on the streets.

If someone wants a specific breed, but one who isn't a "brand new puppy," for whatever reason (such as allergies), there are many routes to go, inclding the one the Obamas took.

They rescued an unwanted dog, and while you can find fault with that, I think it's great! jmo

Tokyo Rose

04-11-2009, 10:55 AM

I just finished reading a book about the whitehouse and all the different presidents and it mentioned over and over the person who is in charge of looking after any whitehouse pets (especially dogs)

Just like the rest of the staff it was an official position within the whitehouse.

I have no doubt there is someone hired to take care of the dog and that will probably remain the same, BUT the Obama's are different. I read somewhere it is the same person who took care of the Bush dogs btw.

Those girls are going to learn how to handle the dog from the handler, groom the dog from the groomer, and probably many things from the vet. They will be the ones cleaning up after the dog too I'll bet.

When the girls are in school, or when the family goes on a trip, and the dog can't go, of course someone will be there assigned to the dog's care. I don't think the Prez is one to kick someone out of a historical position.

jmo

Tokyo Rose

04-11-2009, 11:22 AM

i already said that

The whitehouse has had a pet keeper since the Kennedy era and "macaroni" the pony

so has every president since then

I know, I was answering your post. I also added to my post after you quoted it.

I was only pointing out how much the Obamas will have the pet keeper do as compared to other First Families. The girls will have to do most of the pet keeping I'm betting.

jmo

warhorse46

04-11-2009, 11:40 AM

sheesh what happened to all that Obamababble about a rescue dog from a shelter?

Why am I not surprised to hear that the Obama pup comes from a top breeder in Texas that has long furnished the wealthy Kennedy clan with appropriately pedigreed pooches... :rolleyes:

So much for setting a good example by giving a poor rescue dog a home :crying:

I was so hoping they would adopt a shelter dog too. I even e-mailed the suggestion to the White House.

warhorse46

04-11-2009, 11:42 AM

I read something awhile back that said that the same man that walked and played with the Bush's dogs will assume part of the responsibility for the new dog. But that MO expects the girls to take care of it too.

The girls are way to young, inexperienced to properly complete that kind of care. IMO their job is to simply play with the dog & enjoy him. Any grooming & training will come from a professional.

Tokyo Rose

04-11-2009, 12:05 PM

The girls are way to young, inexperienced to properly complete that kind of care. IMO their job is to simply play with the dog & enjoy him. Any grooming & training will come from a professional.

I don't think The Dog Whisperer would agree with that.

2-B

04-11-2009, 01:08 PM

I don't think The Dog Whisperer would agree with that.

You're right about that.

I'm not a huge fan of the Obamas, but I'll back MO on wanting the girls to take part of the responsibility for the new dog. Playing with it will be great for them, but having a dog will also teach them responsibility and compassion. They are plenty old enough to participate in feeding, walking, brushing, and training the dog in basic commands. (I've known 7 and 8 year olds who have happily taken agility and obedience classes, trained their own dogs, and successfully competed in trials against adults.)

On another note, I wanted to add my two cents to the "rescue" debate, FWIW. We've been involved in rescue since long before it was the fashionable buzz word it is today. Taking on a true rescue dog is not for every family, since many of them come with baggage (I've seen plenty) and need experienced dog people to help them have the best possible life in a forever home. They also usually need families with lots of time to devote to them. I'm not positive the Obamas are experienced dog people, and being POTUS and First Lady does tend to require a great deal of time and energy. It might not be the best "fit"--for the dog's sake--for them to take on a true rescue just to make some kind of politically correct statement.

One other pet peeve of mine, and it's just my opinion, so I don't mean to stir up any board wars over this. But having seen true rescue cases, I really hate the way the term "rescue" has been diluted to mean any dog that's being "re-homed." The Obamas are getting a breeder take-back (a clause most good breeders have buyers sign), and there's nothing wrong with that. But their new PWD wasn't in need of rescue. He was with his breeder, well cared for, and he would have found a home one way or the other. When you've pulled dogs out of shelters who would have been put down the following morning, seen their hip bones sticking out, dealt with their parasites and skin problems and embedded chain collars, etc., you know the difference between rescue dogs and re-homed dogs. We've had both, it's great to take in either, but I hate seeing what it means to really rescue a dog diminished.

Off my soap box now! Happy Easter everyone!

warhorse46

04-11-2009, 01:15 PM

I don't think The Dog Whisperer would agree with that.

Oh I am positive the girls will brush him but they are not skilled enough to do the haircuts this dog needs nor the deep brushing his coat needs daily to keep matt free. The girls will most likely walk him on lead & reinforce the basic trainings of sit, stay, come, down & probably teach him some cute tricks like shake, roll over, etc. But the majority of obedience training will be done by a professional. This professional will also teach the girls what they need to be doing to support his training.

crocdog1

04-11-2009, 04:40 PM

thanks interested, as someone that has devoted my life to rescue for 11 years, i've only come across 1 supposedly hypoallergenic dog & i'm as allergic to him as i am to every other dog. he is also extremely aggressive from being abused & seeing domestic violence. hopefully, with a pup that age, they won't see the troubles that my dog has seen. i'm still betting Malia's allergies just aren't that bad or she wouldn't be able to fly.

Personslly, I believe it was very wise to take Malia's allergies into consideration regards the dog.

Malia will be in daily contact wth this pooch. I can only imagine the problems she would have if she had a pooch like mine (GSD/Mix).

My dog is the Queen of all shedders. I have hair coming out of my ears, on my clothes, on my food, all over our car, our home, etc, etc.

I have: "Hair, hair, everywhere--sometimes, it's hard to breath."
"Hair, hair, everywhere--all this love, and it's just for me."

crocdog1

04-11-2009, 04:43 PM

thanks interested, as someone that has devoted my life to rescue for 11 years, i've only come across 1 supposedly hypoallergenic dog & i'm as allergic to him as i am to every other dog. he is also extremely aggressive from being abused & seeing domestic violence. hopefully, with a pup that age, they won't see the troubles that my dog has seen. i'm still betting Malia's allergies just aren't that bad or she wouldn't be able to fly.

Personally, I believe it was very wise to take Malia's allergies into consideration regards the dog.

Malia will be in daily contact wth this pooch. I can only imagine the problems she would have if she had a pooch like mine (GSD/Mix).

My dog is the Queen of all shedders. I have hair coming out of my ears, on my clothes, on my food, all over our car, our home, etc, etc.

I have: Hair, hair, everywhere--sometimes, it's hard to breath.
Hair, hair, everywhere--all this love, and it's just for me.

Alliekat

04-11-2009, 04:46 PM

Oh...I smell another "Poll" about the dog coming! :rolleyes:

Susan43

04-11-2009, 04:57 PM

You're right about that.

I'm not a huge fan of the Obamas, but I'll back MO on wanting the girls to take part of the responsibility for the new dog. Playing with it will be great for them, but having a dog will also teach them responsibility and compassion. They are plenty old enough to participate in feeding, walking, brushing, and training the dog in basic commands. (I've known 7 and 8 year olds who have happily taken agility and obedience classes, trained their own dogs, and successfully competed in trials against adults.)

On another note, I wanted to add my two cents to the "rescue" debate, FWIW. We've been involved in rescue since long before it was the fashionable buzz word it is today. Taking on a true rescue dog is not for every family, since many of them come with baggage (I've seen plenty) and need experienced dog people to help them have the best possible life in a forever home. They also usually need families with lots of time to devote to them. I'm not positive the Obamas are experienced dog people, and being POTUS and First Lady does tend to require a great deal of time and energy. It might not be the best "fit"--for the dog's sake--for them to take on a true rescue just to make some kind of politically correct statement.

One other pet peeve of mine, and it's just my opinion, so I don't mean to stir up any board wars over this. But having seen true rescue cases, I really hate the way the term "rescue" has been diluted to mean any dog that's being "re-homed." The Obamas are getting a breeder take-back (a clause most good breeders have buyers sign), and there's nothing wrong with that. But their new PWD wasn't in need of rescue. He was with his breeder, well cared for, and he would have found a home one way or the other. When you've pulled dogs out of shelters who would have been put down the following morning, seen their hip bones sticking out, dealt with their parasites and skin problems and embedded chain collars, etc., you know the difference between rescue dogs and re-homed dogs. We've had both, it's great to take in either, but I hate seeing what it means to really rescue a dog diminished.

Off my soap box now! Happy Easter everyone!

Terrific post! Thanks for teaching me something I didn't know. :biggrin:

Alliekat

04-11-2009, 04:58 PM

Terrific post! Thanks for teaching me something I didn't know. :biggrin:

Ditto here! Excellent post by 2-B!

whitedove007

04-11-2009, 05:01 PM

I was so hoping they would adopt a shelter dog too. I even e-mailed the suggestion to the White House.

Did you get and answer from them!

Susan43

04-11-2009, 05:05 PM

Ditto here! Excellent post by 2-B!

Isn't it just the coolest when someone with experience takes the time to write a post like that one? I love learning new stuff and that post pointed things out I just didn't know.

She/he made it easy to see why the Obama's would have to be careful about a "rescue" dog. I've watched some of those shows on the animal planet about animal rescues and some of those poor animals are just the saddest thing I ever saw.

So much better that they have a re-home dog and one that's a little older. I can vouch for the fact that a young puppy is very time consuming. LOL

Susan43

04-11-2009, 05:27 PM

I really appreciated your post explaining more about rescue. I have had a small cat rescue for over 20 years and I have had un-weaned litters left taped into cardboard boxes, starving and dehydrated cats abandoned and the worst last year a kitten left on a bike path with it's cord still attached.. Thanks to a combined effort of 3 people that little kitten is a cat now, small but healthy. We are lucky to have 2 no-kill shelters in the area who can take strays or unwanted pets and find them forever homes, but to me rescue will always mean stepping in with 100% effort to help an animal to survive.
The biggest problem is the attachment you can form so quickly and then it's so hard to let them go.
Happy Easter!

I really admire anyone that can foster a pet. I just don't know how you can give take care of them and then give them up. It must break your heart at time. All who foster deserve extra kudos!

:thumbsup:

2-B

04-11-2009, 06:31 PM

Isn't it just the coolest when someone with experience takes the time to write a post like that one? I love learning new stuff and that post pointed things out I just didn't know.

She/he made it easy to see why the Obama's would have to be careful about a "rescue" dog. I've watched some of those shows on the animal planet about animal rescues and some of those poor animals are just the saddest thing I ever saw.

So much better that they have a re-home dog and one that's a little older. I can vouch for the fact that a young puppy is very time consuming. LOL

Thanks for the kudos, Susan (and others). One other point I should have mentioned, and that's safety when kids are involved. A re-homed six-month old puppy is a much safer bet for a home with two young girls than a shelter rescue might be. Doesn't matter how much "testing" goes on before the dog is placed. Most times, everything turns out well. But I've seen a couple very sad situations where long after the placement, deeply buried psychological issues came to the surface in rescued dogs. You just never know what they've been through, and you don't know what will trigger problems down the line.

When kids are involved, it's better to be safe than sorry.

2-B

04-11-2009, 06:36 PM

I just don't know how you can give take care of them and then give them up. It must break your heart at time.

The attachments are deep, and it's hard to let go, but when a foster and the right "forever home" come together, it's such a joy! (One of our former fosters has her very own home-built ramp so she can easily get on to her owners' waterbed. Talk about the lap of luxury!)

And since there's always another foster that needs the room, if we couldn't let go of a foster when a good home comes along, where would the NEXT one sleep, lol? :ohmy:

Susan43

04-11-2009, 06:40 PM

You're so right Susan, they really tug at your heart. Out of the last group of kittens I kept two, and of course I gave myself all kinds of logical reasons.:laugh:

LOL That would be me I'm afraid. That is why I so admire you all that can do it. I would end up like Maryhaze with a house full.

Susan43

04-11-2009, 06:52 PM

Thanks for the kudos, Susan (and others). One other point I should have mentioned, and that's safety when kids are involved. A re-homed six-month old puppy is a much safer bet for a home with two young girls than a shelter rescue might be. Doesn't matter how much "testing" goes on before the dog is placed. Most times, everything turns out well. But I've seen a couple very sad situations where long after the placement, deeply buried psychological issues came to the surface in rescued dogs. You just never know what they've been through, and you don't know what will trigger problems down the line.

When kids are involved, it's better to be safe than sorry.

The first dog we ever owned was a "rescue" dog, 12 yrs ago. A homeless man offered us this adorable puppy and something in my heart made me say yes, even though we lived in a pet free apt at the time and knew nothing about dogs.

Heaven only knows what people put her through, but we could literally count every rib and it turned out she was scared to death of forks and feet. But she turned out to be the dog for us and was just a wonderful, wonderful dog. Sadly she got bone cancer. Now, looking back, she would not have been a good pet for someone with children. I didn't know enough at the time to even consider that.

I can see how smart it is for the Obama's to get a re-home dog. I can see that a rescue dog no matter how sweet might be dangerous for kids.

CookieCutter

04-11-2009, 09:44 PM

Mahlia has allergies and it is possible they couldn't find a completely hypoallergenic free breed from a shelter.

According to my son's allergist, there is no such thing as a "hypoallergenic" dog. Children are allergic to the animal's dander, and as long as an animal has skin, they have dander.

daniel green

04-12-2009, 12:06 AM

From the story I had heard that this pup was bred at the kennel and sold but returned to the kennel so its kind of a not wanted puppy. It comes from the the same line (family) that of Sen Kennedy's dogs who came from the same kennel. Its a male pup.

Yep. The person who bought him gave him back, so the kennel is "rehoming" the puppy. Great!

What a cutie!!!!!!!!!! That picture made my heart melt. :smile:

daniel green

04-12-2009, 12:08 AM

http://www.tmz.com/2009/04/11/white-house-obama-family-dog/

Exactly what part of six months old, needing to be re-homed after being returned to the kennel, did you have difficulty understanding?

That is a rescue, the dog is too old now to be sold as a puppy and he's been exposed to another family who apparently wasn't very dedicated to him leaving the dog with a bit of history that can't be determined. That would be exactly the circumstances under which my son adopted his Boston Terrier, from the breeder who originally bred him.

But, carry on with your nit picking OK? Heaven forbid the President actually take his family and their allergies into consideration.

Hey, interested. Apparently the poster missed ALL OF IT. :rolleyes:

daniel green

04-12-2009, 12:13 AM

Oh I am positive the girls will brush him but they are not skilled enough to do the haircuts this dog needs nor the deep brushing his coat needs daily to keep matt free. The girls will most likely walk him on lead & reinforce the basic trainings of sit, stay, come, down & probably teach him some cute tricks like shake, roll over, etc. But the majority of obedience training will be done by a professional. This professional will also teach the girls what they need to be doing to support his training.

I agree, WH and good evening! No kids do hair clips, do they? :ohmy: I'm sure the First Fam will have a groomer do that--we sure do!

We have a Bichon which has the same kind of double coat as this PWD and my kids have always brushed him out (he needs daily brushing) to keep Paco (our doggie) mat-free. And I am sure that a trainer will help the First Family, including the girls, train that precious puppy.

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 08:45 AM

I didn't mean the girls would do the grooming. I meant the girls will no doubt be with the groomer watching everything and learning. They are bright kids and that is their pup. I don't think it is beyond the realm of possibility the groomer will teach them and maybe even allow them to do a little something under her/his strict supervision. The brushing will not be too hard to learn for example.

The same with the trainer and vet. Those children will be watching and learning.

I believe they will be learning the responsibilities for a pet in all aspects and that is one of the greatest gifts they can get.

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 08:53 AM

When my son was very young he wanted a dog. He had many allergies. The doctor recommended a Poodle. I've had Poodles ever sense because they are so intelligent and loving.

I think it has more to do with shedding than dander. All dogs have dander. Poodles shed very little. They matte. As their hair sheds it turns into mattes and stays on them.

That coupled with a very short clip seemed to do the trick.

Not Telling

04-12-2009, 09:23 AM

The First Puppy Makes a Big Splash
Bo, the Portuguese Water Dog, Is All Over the Web Before His Official Debut

The little guy is a 6-month-old Portuguese water dog given to the Obama girls as a gift by that Portuguese water dog-lovin' senator himself, Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts. The girls named it Bo -- and let it be noted that you learned that here first. Malia and Sasha chose the name, because their cousins have a cat named Bo and because first lady Michelle Obama's father was nicknamed Diddley, a source said.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/11/AR2009041102484.html?hpid=topnews

Banditta

04-12-2009, 09:29 AM

Oh...I smell another "Poll" about the dog coming! :rolleyes:

:lol: another big issue thread. I wonder if they'll demand his "birth certificate", the dog I mean.:laugh:

Not Telling

04-12-2009, 09:44 AM

During a secret get-acquainted session with the family at the White House a few weeks ago, Bo charmed the first family, a source who was there said. He sat when the girls sat, stood when the girls stood. He made no toileting errors and did not gnaw on the furniture. Bo has, after all, been receiving lessons in good behavior from the Kennedys' dog trainers. These lessons have been taking place at a secret, undisclosed location outside Washington.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/11/AR2009041102484_2.html?hpid=topnews&sid=ST2009041102652

The choice of a Portie raised one complication. The Obamas have long said they wanted a rescue dog. But the carefully bred PWDs almost never end up in shelters. Bo had been living with another family, but it wasn't a good fit, so the Kennedys acquired him for the Obamas. As for the rescue pledge, the Obamas came up with a solution intended to lend a serious symbolic note: They're going to make a donation to the D.C. Humane Society.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/11/AR2009041102484_3.html?hpid=topnews&sid=ST2009041102652

crocdog1

04-12-2009, 09:48 AM

According to my son's allergist, there is no such thing as a "hypoallergenic" dog. Children are allergic to the animal's dander, and as long as an animal has skin, they have dander.

There is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, as all dogs do shed.

But, there is a big degree of difference in dogs that shed. Many people with allergies can live with dogs who are very light shedders--such as the PWD, the Shih Zhu, Poodle, and others.

Then you have dogs like mine--a GSD/Mix. She is a super shedder. A person with allergies would have major problems the super shedders.

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 09:50 AM

Here's Bo

The little guy with the Hawaiian lei around his neck.

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/washingtondc/la-na-obama-dog12-2009apr12,0,4631254.story

Banditta

04-12-2009, 09:56 AM

Sooooooooooo cute. Apparently he was in another home before this. Anyway, the Obamas are making a donation to the human society too. I love it.:thumbsup:

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 09:56 AM

http://www.latimes.com/media/photo/2009-04/46197456.jpg

Banditta

04-12-2009, 09:58 AM

OMG he's adorable. Just want to give him a big hug. :smile:

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 10:21 AM

http://www.latimes.com/media/photo/2009-04/46197456.jpg

More information on the thread.

Katt2

04-12-2009, 10:52 AM

According to my son's allergist, there is no such thing as a "hypoallergenic" dog. Children are allergic to the animal's dander, and as long as an animal has skin, they have dander.

After doing some googling, it seems the allergist is quite correct. But it also seems that certain breeds are more tolerable to allergy sufferers than others. The less a dog sheds and barks, the better.

Not Telling

04-12-2009, 11:09 AM

This information and more, is already posted on the other "Prez Pup" thread you started...why start another one???

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 11:43 AM

This information and more, is already posted on the other "Prez Pup" thread you started...why start another one???

I did say there was more information on the other thread. I just wanted to make sure everyone gets a chance to see him in case there are those who are not going to the "Prez Pup" thread. I am so excited. We finally know.:thumbsup::thumbsup:

C/W will probably merge them.

Spyder88

04-12-2009, 11:45 AM

A rescued mutt pup would have sent the right message..

but Bo is so cute...:biggrin:

:beer: ITA

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 11:56 AM

A rescued mutt pup would have sent the right message..

but Bo is so cute...:biggrin:

He is a re-homed pup. All that information is on the "Prez Pup" thread.

incidentally

04-12-2009, 11:59 AM

A rescued mutt pup would have sent the right message..

but Bo is so cute...:biggrin:

I think it was actually a savvy move on their part. This dog is a purebred, from a reputable breeder BUT is being "re-homed" after being bought and returned. So, it is a rescue of sorts, but at the same time it does not alienate the reputable dog breeders.

Cute pup.

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 12:02 PM

Please see "Prez Pup" thread. Lots of information.

http://boards.insessiontrials.com/showthread.php?t=351769

I made a mistake starting another thread, but just wanted to make sure everyone saw his picture.

Spyder88

04-12-2009, 12:16 PM

I, too, wish it were adopted from a shelter, but it's too wonderful a breed to pass up when it comes as a gift from Kennedy.

I hope the demand for PWD's doesn't affect the careful breeding that's been done to achieve such lovely animals. Nothing worse than mass production for all the wrong reasons to spoil a breed.

I have allergies to my cats. I take Claritin. I'm to the point where my immunities to my own cats work well enough on their own, but I have allergies to other people's pets, so I just take allergy meds. only when necessary.

I'm sure those little girls are thrilled to their toes! They're just so dang cute...:wub:

March2009

04-12-2009, 12:51 PM

This is exciting!:thumbsup:

Why? I am being very serious too. Am I the only one who doesn't understand what all the hype is over the President getting a pet? :confused:

Lyndawitha"Y

04-12-2009, 01:07 PM

Why? I am being very serious too. Am I the only one who doesn't understand what all the hype is over the President getting a pet? :confused:

Goodness Gracious, FYI..there are many posters here, including myself who love dogs, not to mention animals in general and to see this union of re-homing a pup with the Obama's is certainly something for us to get enjoyment.. If it doesnt matter or mean anything to you, fine and dandy..ignore the topic TYIA

Like everything else the Obama's do, this choice has been well thoughout, and carefully orchestrated to get just the right dog for the right family. Good Job done in getting those precious girl's a promised pup, as promised!

LMS:smile:

warhorse46

04-12-2009, 01:19 PM

Why? I am being very serious too. Am I the only one who doesn't understand what all the hype is over the President getting a pet? :confused:

Presidential pets have always been a great interest to the public. Haven't you read about Fala, Him & Her, Socks, Macaroni?

Read here
http://www.presidentialpetmuseum.com/whitehousepets-2.htm

http://www.presidentialpetmuseum.com/whitehousepets-1.htm

March2009

04-12-2009, 01:54 PM

Goodness Gracious, FYI..there are many posters here, including myself who love dogs, not to mention animals in general and to see this union of re-homing a pup with the Obama's is certainly something for us to get enjoyment.. If it doesnt matter or mean anything to you, fine and dandy..ignore the topic TYIA

Like everything else the Obama's do, this choice has been well thoughout, and carefully orchestrated to get just the right dog for the right family. Good Job done in getting those precious girl's a promised pup, as promised!

LMS:smile:

I guess you put me in my place :thumbdown:

I asked a simple question. I wasn't rude about it. I was genuinely curious as to why people are so excited because it's just not something that gets my motor started. Not sure it deserved the response it got from you. YIKES!! LOL

March2009

04-12-2009, 02:00 PM

Presidential pets have always been a great interest to the public. Haven't you read about Fala, Him & Her, Socks, Macaroni?

Read here
http://www.presidentialpetmuseum.com/whitehousepets-2.htm

http://www.presidentialpetmuseum.com/whitehousepets-1.htm

It honestly has never been of interest to me and I am a huge animal lover like most posters here. My pets are treated like kings & queens. LOL. Thank you Warhorse for not getting snippy with me in your response. I wasn't knocking anyone. I was just trying to understand but I guess that is not allowed around here. If you don't understand then you are expected to ignore the topic. :confused:

Have a Happy Easter Warhorse

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 03:13 PM

From a posted link:

Bo charmed the first family, a source who was there said. He sat when the girls sat, stood when the girls stood. He made no toilet errors and did not gnaw on the furniture. Bo has, after all, been receiving lessons in good behavior from the Kennedys' dog trainers. These lessons have been taking place at a secret, undisclosed location outside Washington.

When the president walked across the room during the visit, Bo followed obediently.

daniel green

04-12-2009, 03:49 PM

Isn't it just the coolest when someone with experience takes the time to write a post like that one? I love learning new stuff and that post pointed things out I just didn't know.

She/he made it easy to see why the Obama's would have to be careful about a "rescue" dog. I've watched some of those shows on the animal planet about animal rescues and some of those poor animals are just the saddest thing I ever saw.

So much better that they have a re-home dog and one that's a little older. I can vouch for the fact that a young puppy is very time consuming. LOL

During the Westminster Dog Show the announcers spoke about how great it was that the Obamas were researching what kind of dog fit their family and commended them on it. They said that the PWD would be an excellent choice for them, having children and being first-time dog owners.

Love the name!!!! Bo. How cute is that? :thumbsup:

daniel green

04-12-2009, 03:59 PM

Heaven only knows what people put her through, but we could literally count every rib and it turned out she was scared to death of forks and feet. But she turned out to be the dog for us and was just a wonderful, wonderful dog. Sadly she got bone cancer. Now, looking back, she would not have been a good pet for someone with children. I didn't know enough at the time to even consider that.

snipped.

Yep. EVen ppl who purchase a dog from a breeder, let alone a pet store, rarely think it out or research what kind of dog.

My SIL had a beloved Jack Russell Terrier (folks who post in the Animal forum know about her! :w00t:) for many years before they got married. Poor doggy is a JRT, and the breed is not recommended for anyone with children under 6. When my daughter was pregnant with the twins they had a professional trainer try to help with the dog and did everything he suggested but dog was horrible around the babies, no matter what. Finally two weeks ago, she attacked one of the girls, thankfully only scratching her face. :sad: But it was a sure sign that she could no longer live with them.

They found the rescue group who assists with this and she was placed in a lovely, experienced with JRT foster home for a few days and has just been adopted by a woman whose JRT passed away a few weeks ago. The group does extensive cks with family, vet and neighbors as well as the actual home before placing.

So, every family has to do what is best for the family. Rescue groups around the country do a wonderful job and need our donations and they do what is best for the dog.

In the case of the First Family, they obviously looked into all of the breeds and what would work with their life and health. GREAT JOB!

My son had terrible allergies so we, too, had to make the hypo-allergenic choice and have a Havanese and a Bichon we love to pieces.

daniel green

04-12-2009, 04:14 PM

Approximately fifteen percent of people have pet allergies according to recent statistics. Dog allergies are quite common and many people believe that their allergies will prevent them from owning a pet dog. In truth, there are many dog breeds out there that are classified as "hypoallergenic" and relatively safe for the allergy sufferer. Hypoallergenic dogs produce extremely small amounts of dander, one of the reasons behind the bad allergic reactions.

3. Portuguese Water Dog: This breed is generally friendly, intelligent, affectionate, water-loving, energetic, and loyal. They are also said to be excellent with children. The breed has hair that is either wavy or curly; with many have both wavy and curly hair on their bodies. The coat does grow more slowly than a poodle, but should be clipped every two months.

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/704429/15_hypoallergenic_dog_breeds_dogs_that.html?cat=5

warhorse46

04-12-2009, 04:23 PM

It honestly has never been of interest to me and I am a huge animal lover like most posters here. My pets are treated like kings & queens. LOL. Thank you Warhorse for not getting snippy with me in your response. I wasn't knocking anyone. I was just trying to understand but I guess that is not allowed around here. If you don't understand then you are expected to ignore the topic. :confused:

Have a Happy Easter Warhorse

Thank you, Happy Easter to you too. I guess it is as the old saying goes---different strokes for different folks. Altho Presidential pets interests many folks it is not a topic that interests you. And there is nothing wrong with that IMO.

Lyndawitha"Y

04-12-2009, 04:24 PM

I guess you put me in my place :thumbdown:

I asked a simple question. I wasn't rude about it. I was genuinely curious as to why people are so excited because it's just not something that gets my motor started. Not sure it deserved the response it got from you. YIKES!! LOL

I am so sorry March, if you felt I was being snippy...I certainly did not intend to be such. Like you questioning the reason for the topic, when many do indeed wonder, appreciate animals in the Whitehouse, I too wondered why you would even ask?..My response was only to the "Incredulous" attitude I perceived..I apologize, if it seemed offensive to you,!

LMS:wub:

sunstar

04-12-2009, 04:29 PM

Here's Bo

The little guy with the Hawaiian lei around his neck.

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/washingtondc/la-na-obama-dog12-2009apr12,0,4631254.story

I think that photo of him is absolutely precious! He's so adorable and I'm sure he'll be just perfect in his new home! :wub:

March2009

04-12-2009, 04:37 PM

I am so sorry March, if you felt I was being snippy...I certainly did not intend to be such. Like you questioning the reason for the topic, when many do indeed wonder, appreciate animals in the Whitehouse, I too wondered why you would even ask?..My response was only to the "Incredulous" attitude I perceived..I apologize, if it seemed offensive to you,!

LMS:wub:

Thank you VERY much for your apology. It is much appreciated. I am sorry as well for getting defensive. I hope you have a Happy Easter!

:wub:

crocdog1

04-12-2009, 05:19 PM

I guess you put me in my place :thumbdown:

I asked a simple question. I wasn't rude about it. I was genuinely curious as to why people are so excited because it's just not something that gets my motor started. Not sure it deserved the response it got from you. YIKES!! LOL

March, I do not think you are rude, and you have a perfect right to express your opinions just like we all do.

My opinion regards FIRST DOGS is that the public has always shown a great interest in President dogs.

Most Presidents have had dogs, from George Washington on. Bo is just a part of Presidential lore.

Don't underestimate the importance of dogs and Presidents.

IMO, Richard Nixon's speech about his dog, Checkers, was the main factor in his being elected our President.

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 05:20 PM

BO = Barack Obama

I wonder if the first family realizes that? Cute!

IMO

aproudmom

04-12-2009, 05:32 PM

OMG we are talking about a dog..:rolleyes:

For Gabriel

04-12-2009, 05:41 PM

A dog or a pizza, take your pick. :rolleyes:

Pizza is more appealing...

Lyndawitha"Y

04-12-2009, 05:51 PM

Thank you VERY much for your apology. It is much appreciated. I am sorry as well for getting defensive. I hope you have a Happy Easter!

:wub:

:smile:I hope the Easter Bunny filled your basket with all your favs...!!

LMS

Tokyo Rose

04-12-2009, 06:07 PM

A dog or a pizza, take your pick. :rolleyes:

I love them both!:thumbsup:

crocdog1

04-12-2009, 06:08 PM

Pizza is more appealing...

For you, maybe--not me.

My dog is the sweetest, most kind and loving dog in the whole wide world.

You go eat your Pizza. I'll take the unconditional love of a dog, over that of a lot of unkind humans. (BTW, I am not talking about people on this Message Board).

For Gabriel

04-12-2009, 06:12 PM

For you, maybe--not me.

My dog is the sweetest, most kind and loving dog in the whole wide world.

You go eat your Pizza. I'll take the unconditional love of a dog, over that of a lot of unkind humans. (BTW, I am not talking about people on this Message Board).

I'll stick with my cats. Pizza would be second choice. Obama's choice of pet would be dead last.

magnolia

04-12-2009, 06:24 PM

Bo is adorable...and I LOVE the name. I personally prefer girl dogs...but Bo's a hit. :) :) (And I have a book on presidential pets that I read with my children. It's quite interesting and good to learn about something fun from history.)

For Gabriel

04-12-2009, 06:54 PM

You are so right! Unfortunately, humans do not possess the quality of unconditional love. Only dogs do. IMO

This thread is about the new puppy the first family is getting, and has nothing to do with Pizza. I would suggest the poster who wants to discuss and eat Pizza do so on another thread with the appropriate title. :shrug:

IMO

Quote:
Originally Posted by who?
A dog or a pizza, take your pick.

For Gabriel

04-12-2009, 09:09 PM

Why do you care where other people want to post?

No one owes YOU an explanation for what threads they would like to post in or the comments they make, GET OVER YOURSELF!

:rolleyes:

:thumbsup: ITA! Happy Easter!

March2009

04-12-2009, 10:03 PM

March, generally if someone does not care for a thread, they don't post on it. They move on. I think you got the reply you were inadvertently seeking. IMO :shrug:

I see no reason for your post at all. Just go elsewhere if you don't like the subject matter. IMO :shrug:

And personally I see absolutely no reason for your post. Where did you get the idea that I didn't care for the thread but most of all where do you get off thinking it is OK to tell me to go elsewhere because I kindly asked a genuine question?

Thanks to the kind posters here I now understand why the Presidents choice of an animal puts a smile on their face. It is just not something I have ever thought about. Good Lord!:ohmy:

March2009

04-12-2009, 10:06 PM

March, I do not think you are rude, and you have a perfect right to express your opinions just like we all do.

My opinion regards FIRST DOGS is that the public has always shown a great interest in President dogs.

Most Presidents have had dogs, from George Washington on. Bo is just a part of Presidential lore.

Don't underestimate the importance of dogs and Presidents.

IMO, Richard Nixon's speech about his dog, Checkers, was the main factor in his being elected our President.

Thank you for your kind response!

Bo is adorable. I know how much I love my dogs so I can only imagine how much the Obama girls are going to love their new dog.

CookieCutter

04-13-2009, 12:15 AM

Great info, Daniel. Thanks for providing the "facts" for those who didn't understand the facts behind hypo-allergenic dogs. :thumbsup:

You obviously don't have a child with allergies. Children with allergies can go from mild to sever in no time. Some children with allergies do not build up a tolerance with exposure, but have the exact opposite reaction. It will be really sad if this little girl develops much more sever allergies.

CookieCutter

04-13-2009, 12:42 AM

What are you talking about? I was a child with very severe allergies to dog dander. In fact, my allergy was so bad that I would have severe Asthma attacks and have to go to the emergency room. They didn't have inhalers, etc. in those days.

We had two poodles when I was growing up and I never had one reaction during the 15 years we had them. I have had two poodles , a bichon, and a Lhasa over the years, and have never had one reaction. However, I have gone into home's where they had a dog that was NOT hypo-allergenic and would immediately have an attack.

Thank goodness we now have inhalers, etc., so the trips to the emergency room are no longer required.

Anything else you wish to add to this??? I suspect the Obama's know what they're doing when it comes to their daughters, don't you?

Add/ Hmmm..How about a four year old who started out with "mild" allergies that have developed to life threatening allergies to the point that he can't be in a home that has had any type of dog in it? There is NO SUCH THING AS A HYPO ALLERGENIC DOG. As long as a dog has skin it will produce dander. As long as a dog is producing ANY AMOUNT of dander, it is a threat to a child with canine allergies.
I think I will trust our allergist over a bunch of people without medical training on the internet.
It will be very sad indeed if that precious little girl with "mild" allergies, who has never lived in a home with a dog before, develops life threatening allergies from daily exposure to a dog. MOO

emdragon

04-13-2009, 12:48 AM

What are you talking about? I was a child with very severe allergies to dog dander. In fact, my allergy was so bad that I would have severe Asthma attacks and have to go to the emergency room. They didn't have inhalers, etc. in those days.

We had two poodles when I was growing up and I never had one reaction during the 15 years we had them. I have had two poodles , a bichon, and a Lhasa over the years, and have never had one reaction. However, I have gone into home's where they had a dog that was NOT hypo-allergenic and would immediately have an attack.

Thank goodness we now have inhalers, etc., so the trips to the emergency room are no longer required.

Anything else you wish to add to this??? I suspect the Obama's know what they're doing when it comes to their daughters, don't you?

Love it when someone spouts off that hasn't got a clue.

I too was a child with the most severe allergies to just about everything.. and it was a poodle that the Doctor finally allowed me to have for the very reason that they are "hypo-allergenic" which means that they don't shed or have the dander that other dogs have.

I had allergy shots for years and thankfully I can acclimate myself to some dogs and cats- (no long hair cats and no really coarse haired dogs- like shepherds and hounds) But even now if I visit someone who has a dog the allergies don't tolerate it is an immediate and uncomfortable reaction.

Tokyo Rose

04-13-2009, 08:13 AM

There must be a reason doctors recommend Poodles for children with allergies. Like I posted before, I was told I could get ONLY a Poodle for my son who had allergies and asthma. This was many years ago.

They don't shed. They matte. They have less dander. It's a fact, they never smell like a dog smell.

It seems many more dogs are now being considered hypo-allergenic, but I really wonder about that. Those breeds were around before.

Katt2

04-13-2009, 08:42 AM

I don't believe anyone is suggesting you should listen to anyone but your child's Dr. Your child's case is rare, and unfortunate. That's very sad.

We all understand about dogs all having "some" dander, I don't believe anyone has disputed that. In fact, if you'll re-read Daniel's informative post you will see that very thing in her post.

However, I think the Obama's know what they're doing and will proceed cautiously.

According to the experts, her child's case is not all that rare.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hypoallergenic_dog_breeds

daniel green

04-13-2009, 12:13 PM

The girls have named the dog Bo because they have cousins with a cat of the same name and because Mrs. Obama’s father was nicknamed Diddley, after the musician Bo Diddley

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/13/us/politics/13obama.html?ref=us

daniel green

04-13-2009, 12:18 PM

Love it when someone spouts off that hasn't got a clue.

snipped

I had allergy shots for years and thankfully I can acclimate myself to some dogs and cats- (no long hair cats and no really coarse haired dogs- like shepherds and hounds) But even now if I visit someone who has a dog the allergies don't tolerate it is an immediate and uncomfortable reaction.

For real, Em.

As I have posted before on the subject, my son was violently allergic to animals. First asthma attack at 6 months, after visiting a relative with a dog. Thankfully, his is one of those cases that resolved itself after puberty.

He had allergy shots from a very early age as well as allergy meds and we had no animals till he was a pre-teen, when we got the Bichon.

I, too, have horrible allergies, am back to the shots and take clarinex every day of my life and have no problems with our Bichon and Havanese.

daniel green

04-13-2009, 01:27 PM

Awwwwwwwwww, this is such a sweet in-depth look at this dog, the breeder, and how BO made his way to the WH.

Penny's blessed event took place at the Stern place Oct. 9: Ten--count 'em, 10!--puppies in one litter. The Sterns, whose operation is called Amigo Portuguese Water Dogs, give theme names to each of their litters, and being fans of then-candidate Barack Obama, they dubbed this one the Hope and Change Litter...Portie breeders tend to be a careful lot, and they insist on finding new homes for unwanted pups to assure they don't end up in shelters. Rejected by his first family, Charlie was about to set on a journey that took him to The First Family.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/04/12/AR2009041202872_2.html?sid=ST2009041202878

daniel green

04-13-2009, 01:33 PM

Bo was trained by:

Arrangements were made for Charlie to be tutored in good manners by Dawn Sylvia of Merit Puppy Training , in Hume, Va.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30188436/

Link to Merit Puppy Training:

http://www.northernvirginiadogtraining.com/ourgraduates.html

Carol25

04-13-2009, 01:47 PM

daniel green

04-13-2009, 03:05 PM

The White House has released a new photo of Bo Obama, the Obamas' new puppy, running though the halls with President Obama:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/13/bo-the-puppy-runs-with-ob_n_186150.html

Bo made a super secret visit to the WH a few weeks ago and Malia had no allergic reaction to him. The girls fell in love with him.

Lady_Jean_La

04-13-2009, 03:54 PM

http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Most-Emailed-Photos/ss/1756/im:/090412/480/25f6ec7c29bc4e359968335673f6e4e4#photoViewer=/090412/480/25f6ec7c29bc4e359968335673f6e4e4

Lady_Jean_La

04-15-2009, 12:52 AM

http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Obama-family-picks-Portuguese-water-dog/ss/events/pl/041209obamadog#photoViewer=/090414/photos_pl_afp/7bd7c1f1fa1684d89cd7b6b60e989c17

daniel green

04-15-2009, 02:04 PM

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/04/15/bo-draws-media-frenzy/

It's Bo's 4th home in his 6 months and his third name.

He truly is a beauty.

Daisy Chain

04-15-2009, 06:37 PM

I wasn't familiar with Portugese Water Dogs before but Bo is too adorable!

He looks like a teddybear with his jet black fluffly hair, white paws, chest, goatee etc... very cute!

Bo looks like he's very happy to have a new home with a couple sweet girls and lots of room to run and play :)

crocdog1

04-16-2009, 09:15 AM

I think Bo is adorable. I think they should have a squad of puppies in the White House. It just would be fun to see the squad running from place to place. Regardless how frantic and stressfull the job gets, a fleeting smile would enter each employee's face when they see one flash by. "I see Frank's on a mission!"

I can see it now. A dog scoots by while someone is doing their chores, and the whole room lights up.

All of us who have dogs :smile:. They bring happiness and joy into our lives. They are, indeed, our best friends.:smile: