Former US President Barack Obama has announced the death of the family’s beloved dog, Sunny.
In a personal statement released on Wednesday, Obama said the Portuguese Water Dog had been a cherished member of the family for 13 years.
Sunny joined the Obamas at the start of his second term in the White House, where she quickly became a favourite alongside their first dog, Bo.
Obama described her as a “force of nature” — athletic, energetic and constantly on the move. He recalled how she would leap over hedges on the South Lawn while chasing squirrels and birds, and how she preferred play and affection over treats.
He noted that Sunny was fiercely protective of Bo, loved the Obama daughters even when they disturbed her naps, and often followed White House staff around as they worked. Despite being a Portuguese Water Dog, she disliked getting wet and had other quirks, including a preference for people over other dogs and a loud, messy drinking style.
“As far as our family was concerned, she was pretty much perfect,” Obama wrote. “For thirteen years, she would be by our side — always loyal, always sweet, always ready for adventure, still fiery and gorgeous till the very end.”
He added that the family would miss her terribly and imagined she was now reunited with Bo.
Sunny’s death marks the end of an era for the Obama family pets that became familiar faces during their time in the White House.
