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Obama Family Dog

Obama Making Good on One Campaign Promise

November 5, 2008 : 6:11 PM

On a night to accept the choice of the American people, Obama doesn’t forget a very important promise he made

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Animal Society

It seems like an eternity ago that then candidate Barack Obama promised his daughters a dog should he win the Presidency. Best Friends members jumped into action after that announcement. More than 50,000 of you signed a petition, thousands joined a facebook group, a myspace group, helped us spread the word through Twitter, and dugg the story on Digg.

The message was a simple one. ADOPT a dog Obamas (and anyone else looking for a new family member!). With millions of animals dying in shelters every year, and commercial breeding operations supporting a pet store industry that puts more dogs out there than are needed, adoption is the best first choice.

About a month ago, the announcement was made on Entertainment Tonight. Michelle Obama clearly stated an adopted dog would find its way into their family. Success (should Obama claim victory)!!

Let us now fast forward to last night. Obama, fresh off the major news networks declaring his victory; he took to the stage in Grant Park in his hometown of Chicago. With 200,000 people at the park, and millions around the world watching on, the ‘Thank Yous’ began: his campaign manager, the American people, his wife and kids. But before he moved on to his first speech as President-Elect, he had one more item of note. He said to his kids, “I love you more than you can imagine and you have earned the new puppy that's coming with us to the White House."

So what now? Best Friends has made an offer to the Obamas to help them find their new puppy. With a world class staff knowledgeable in the areas of adoption and training, Best Friends would be more than happy to make sure the Obamas find an animal that has a first home, forever home with the Obamas.

Share your views with the New York Times on where the Obama’s should get their first pup!

Cast your vote for the first puppy on the Chicago Tribune website

Comments

April 14, 2009 at 12:59 PM
posted by: dannie04

Shame on you for not making good on your promise, what else won't you make good on? As I figured you are no different than any other of the politicians. And to get a dog from the Kennedy family..pleeeeease. I am very sad and disappointed with your choice, you could have set a great example for your precious daughters and our country. Guess that wasn't so important.

April 13, 2009 at 2:35 PM
posted by: marla

Well
He does not keep his promises.
What a jerk. Wonder what else he will not do.

Guess we shouldn't be surprised.

April 13, 2009 at 12:31 AM
posted by: drlewe

What does everyone think now of the purchase of a puppy from a breeder?
From the AKC's website: "New York, NY [April 13, 2009] – The American Kennel Club congratulates the Obama family on the anticipated arrival of their 6-month-old, AKC registered Portuguese Water Dog, Amigo’s New Hope, affectionately known as "Bo." Bo was bred by Art and Martha Stern, long-time breeders who reside near Dallas, TX, and is a littermate of Senator Ted Kennedy’s pup Cappy. "

December 28, 2008 at 6:44 PM
posted by: marla

bogiedew

Damm you sure did. Cannot believe what he said. I volunteer at a shelter, and there is many many well balanced? loving dogs and cats there. He sure set the humane society's back a mile.

December 28, 2008 at 10:10 AM
posted by: bogiedew

Did I hear this correctly? The Dog Whisper is saying the Obamas should not get a rescue dog?

http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/bestoftv/2008/12/26/ldt.schiavone.white.house.dog.cnn

Now tell me again why so many people like him?

November 14, 2008 at 6:47 PM
posted by: rs9862

I adopted a wonderful 8 year old shepherd mix from an adopt-a-thon where Best Friends was participating. Dini had spent a year with BF and when we first got her she was pretty shy but she is so wonderful and loving. She is quite a character and so when I feel bothered about the economy and other problems, I just have some fun with my best bud and it seems to make life tolerable again. I know Mr. Obama will have a mountain of problems to deal with and I sincerely hope he will look at Best Friends because these dogs are wonderful!

November 13, 2008 at 10:16 AM
posted by: Chesscat

I shared on the Obama link that dogs are best adopted in pairs. That mutts are healthier than purebreds because of the lack of inbreeding. And...that a recent AMA study indicated that children with allergies and asthma increased their tolerance levels if permitted to live with and interact with animals!

November 10, 2008 at 6:49 AM
posted by: Deb_Florida

http://change.gov/page/s/yourvision
Go here and let Obama know what you think about his selection of a dog for his girls; I just did.
Deb

November 9, 2008 at 10:43 AM
posted by: d2or3

Yes, Mitzigirl12, Obama did say at 3:09 pm during the press conference that his criteria is: 1) hypoall dog; 2) shelter dog. BUT he said there are MUTTS in the shelters, and he implied that b/c of this, it will be a challenge for his family to meet these two criteria.

I'm on the side of MAKING HIM KEEP HIS PROMISE so as to HELP END the PET OVERPOPULATION CRISIS and SAVING INNOCENT LIVES.

I, for one, am not giving Obama a break unless he holds true to his promise.

November 8, 2008 at 4:46 PM
posted by: sharkster

I think everyone is going a little over board on this whole issue, I cant believe people are arguging about all of this. The man said hes going to get a dog, I'm sure it will be a shelter dog if not he'll look like a fool. I know this web site is of course about dogs but we also need to start worring about the economy and getting that back on track or something more important then obama getting a dog is going to happen and thats people who already have dogs might not beable to afford to take care of them anymore and dump them in shelters so lets see if this soon to be new president can keep ALL his promises he's made (i myself do not believe hes going to come thru) So in my opinion more important then him getting a dog is for him to make sure we all can keep the ones we already have, again just my opinion

November 8, 2008 at 2:11 PM
posted by: Mitzigirl12

I just read part of the press release where Obama talks the new puppy. He did not say "only" mutts are in shelters he said shelters have a lot of mutts like him. Ruth92 you took that completely out of context. Of course he will do what is best for his family...who wouldn't . why are you being so judgmental?

November 8, 2008 at 11:35 AM
posted by: Mitzigirl12

Where are some people getting informatiom that Obama said only "mutts" are in shelters and other info about his opinions of where to get a puppy? I have not heard any of these comments. Why are some of you so quick to judge a man most of you I am guessing, do not know in the slightest. Of course we all want him to get a shelter puppy, and if this does not happen, then be upset. Why are some of you bashing him and he has not made any move to get a puppy. His Grandmother died less than a week ago and he just got elected to be OUR President. Be compassionate and understanding.

November 8, 2008 at 10:54 AM
posted by: katgorands

Please don't let the issue of requiring a hypoallergenic dog divert the Obama family from adopting a shelter dog, preferably from Best Friends. This is one campaign promise that must be met if Mr. Obama is to have any credibility and it is one that he can keep immediately. Katherine in Issaquah, WA

November 8, 2008 at 8:29 AM
posted by: amx4080

Make good on your promise Mr. Obama. Lead by example and adopt/rescue a dog.

November 8, 2008 at 8:29 AM
posted by: amx4080

Make good on your promise Mr. Obama. Lead by example and adopt/rescue a dog.

November 7, 2008 at 8:50 PM
posted by: bogiedew

No, I dont think it is right to get a dog from a breeder or pet store..but we dont know what he is going to do..so why put him down? He hasnt done anything yet! He hasnt reneged on his promise..last I checked, he dosnt have a dog yet!

November 7, 2008 at 8:36 PM
posted by: ruthy92

"he will do what is right for his family."

You mean, buy a dog from some breeder or puppy mill even though he made a promise to adopt?

He's a leader and he made a promise.

It doesn't matter what you think is more important. He made a promise, and he seems to be reneging thanks to breeder propaganda.

But maybe you think that is all right too.

November 7, 2008 at 7:27 PM
posted by: bogiedew

I dont think Obama has had a dog in a long time, if ever..so he may not be aware that there are pure-bred dogs in shelters and rescues. And I am sure someone will advise him of this when the time comes for them to choose their dog..but my guess is, he is not sitting around thinking about adopting dogs right now..I think what he is mainly thinking about is getting our economy back into shape and the war in Iraq..when the time comes to get a dog, then I am sure he will do what is right for his family. Until then, why dont you stop bashing him?

November 7, 2008 at 7:15 PM
posted by: ruthy92

That's right. Obama met the little purebred puppy mill rescue dog, Baby, in person

November 7, 2008 at 7:13 PM
posted by: ruthy92

catnip, I voted for him

I thought he really stood for change

Now I'm disgusted

November 7, 2008 at 7:12 PM
posted by: ruthy92

The point is that he has been offered all kinds of assistance by humane groups, and he clearly hasn't decided to avail himself of that while he goes public with statements like "only" mutts are in shelters.

Hopefully Oprah Winfrey might get through to him, but maybe he is more interested in listening to the AKC

because it is the AKC and AKC breeders that often say that only inferior mutts are in shelters (in hopes of boosting their sales), and AKC sells some dogs as hypoallergenic when they aren't

He's basically quoting those puppy miller AKC people

November 7, 2008 at 6:51 PM
posted by: lucysmom

Are you serious, ruthy92? Perhaps he hasn't had a chance to become as educated on dog rescue as you and the other posters here, but I'm thinking he's been a little busy the past couple years. Wouldn't it be more constructive to offer him some friendly advice on the subject and offer possible solutions, as others here are doing, rather than bashing him and calling him clueless? It appears that plenty of animal welfare groups, including Best Friends and HSUS, are already pointing out to him exactly the points you brought up, but fortunately they're using a much more positive approach. You've heard the old saying about attacting more bees with honey than vinegar??

November 7, 2008 at 6:51 PM
posted by: catnip

NOT knowing a golden doodle is a mutt and that they are not hypoallergenic is hardly a crime and it's certainly not a requirement of a future president . I think you're letting you're letting your personal political feelings get in the way. I'm sure President Elect Obama will get plenty of advice from all kinds of animal groups/shelters/rescues advising him of
what dogs are available. As far as I am concerned the mere fact that the adoption of a dog is in the spotlight is a major highlight for animals.

November 7, 2008 at 6:47 PM
posted by: d2or3

OK, this is what I found for Oprah's "CONTACT US" page:
http://www.oprah.com/contactus ---> Click on "Oprah's Mail: We Hear You!"

See if she can alert Obama as to the plight of homeless dogs, including those in shelters and puppymills. Obama SHOULD know better. Jana with the three-legged little doggie, Baby, met Obama in person.

Also, folks could send Obama -- a new link for him is www.change.org -- puppymill links to horror stories AND rescue groups.

He just mainly needs to know they need to save a life -- and that he could set a precedent for the country. Also, as someone mentioned, by adopting dogs from shelters, it will reduce the pet overpop problem, and thus cost each county/city less money, and thus add to helping the economy.

I wrote to him and said compassion is the key to everything -- all life -- humans, animals, or otherwise.

November 7, 2008 at 6:33 PM
posted by: ruthy92

And Obama doesn't even realize that a goldendoodle IS a mutt, there are tons of them in shelters and rescues, and they are not hypoallergenic?

This guy is going to be President?

How depressing.

November 7, 2008 at 6:30 PM
posted by: ruthy92

By the way, someone who claimed to be a member of Best Friends who was also a POODLE BREEDER was on the NYT article pushing that Obama should contact a POODLE BREEDER CLUB and buy a Poodle puppy from a breeder.

Poodles aren't even hypoallergencic! That is just breeder lies.

The breeders will do anything to sell dogs, and the AKC and their breed clubs will do anything to push their registered puppy mill puppies.

The New York Times reporter didn't seem to even have a clue that the AKC is all about dog breeder MONEY, not dog care, and that the AKC makes most of its money from puppy mill registrations.

The reporter's name is Katharine Q Seelye, and she just interviwed the AKC hack and let her advertise, basically, buying purebred dogs, as well as lie about puppy "imprinting."

The New York Times seems clueless too. They don't even know that the AKC is a right-wing industry lobbying organization, not an "authority."

November 7, 2008 at 6:22 PM
posted by: ruthy92

Obama thinks that only "mutts" are at shelters? This is our next President?

He is not even aware that purebreds fill all kinds of shelters and rescues?

And that most of the claims about purebreds being "hypoallergenic" is just a crock from breeders trying to sell dogs?

I seriously have doubts that this man is really about change at all, at this point. Or even has a clue.

It sounds like he is getting jerked around and manipulated by the AKC, and I bet he doesn't even realize that those money-grubbers are mainly extreme right wingers

November 7, 2008 at 6:00 PM
posted by: Maeve

d2or3 - thanks for those links - have signed the card, sent it on to people and went to the Obama link as well - mentioned Shelters having purebreds as well as Breed Rescue groups. Great links. Does BF have a card going out to them - does anyone know?
BettyHNC - he did not "waffle" on his promise to adopt - he merely stated the allergy issue and that they prefer a Shelter dog and that shelter dogs are "mutts" and it was "....pressure in the Obama household...." He knows of the many breeds that are hypoallergenic and the word is getting out to him of purebreds in Shelters and also of the many Breed Resuce groups. I'm sure he will do the right thing and adopt - as he said, this topic is the most talked about right now on his web site! He will not go back on his word and he will set a fine example for this country. As the HSUS card says - "Yes we can......adopt"
Go Obama:)

November 7, 2008 at 5:23 PM
posted by: rmlamasney25

Excellent links! Thanks for posting those d2or3. Let's send them to everyone we know - can we get another 50,000 to sign? yes we can!

November 7, 2008 at 5:14 PM
posted by: Maeve

Speaking of Oprah - let's not forget Bill Smith and Main Line Animal Rescue - www.mlar.com. You all will remember he is the one exposing the puppy mills on her show - he may have a link to her.

November 7, 2008 at 5:13 PM
posted by: BettyHNC

I was both saddened and angry today when Obama waffled on his promise to adopt as opposed to purchase a "first dog." He commented that his older daughter was allergic so they needed a hypoallergic dog and they did want a shelter dog...BUT most shelter dogs are mutts. It sounds like the Obama's are going to go the purchase route. This is just devastating as I picture so many people giving up their current dogs to get a dog "just like the Obama's have" and many more people becoming backyard breeders to make some quick cash. Let's start our polite writing campaign to make sure that this is not the first campaign promise the new president breaks!

November 7, 2008 at 4:22 PM
posted by: mimi

I was pretty happy with the press conference. Any Prez-elect who can answer with equal seriousness questions on both Iranian nuclear proliferation and the First Dog is ok in my book.

I know we all would have liked a longer First Dog answer, including the purebred population in shelters and rescue groups, how much pet overpopulation costs the country each year, and with a plug for spay/neuter as well. But at least he reiterated their intention to rescue a dog...and he put in a good word for "mutts," and that ought to count for something!

November 7, 2008 at 3:56 PM
posted by: ktot

d2or3, thanks so much for posting the links. If anyone knows any others, please post them. I just watched the press conference as well, and Pres.-elect Obama clearly did state the two criteria (hypoallergenic and shelter dog) as if the two may be difficult to find together. We all need to let the Obamas know there are *many, many, MANY* shelter dogs that will meet their requirements! Does anyone also have a link perhaps through Oprah Winfrey? I'm just thinking about the shows she did about puppy mills then more recently her obvious complete excitement about Obama winning. She may be another channel to "get out the word." Meantime, everybody PLEASE have everyone you know let the Obamas know about the many shelter dogs that will meet their hypoallergenic requirement!

November 7, 2008 at 3:43 PM
posted by: doggoneguy

I believe the answer is as obvious.
They should take in a PITBULL...and not just ANY PITBULL...ONE OF MICHAEL VICK'S.
NOTHING WOULD MAKE A BETTER STATEMENT THAN THIS.
Oh...and for the kids..a Pit PUPPY.. there are PLENTY of products she can take for her "allergies".
She will have FREE access to the finest medical minds in the WORLD so I don't believe it will be a problem finding something that works for her. Jeez.....
I think we all know where there are some of Vick's Pits...don't we?

November 7, 2008 at 3:38 PM
posted by: d2or3

**URGENT ACTION NEEDED** URGENT ACTION NEEDED **

OK, folks, as I suspected, Obama needs some more information/education about SHELTER DOGS and BREED RESCUE GROUPS.

During his press release, he was asked about "what dog they are going to buy" by a reporter, and he said there are two criteria: 1) the dog needs to be hypoallergenic; and 2) their preference is a shelter dog. Kudos, BUT he said there are MUTTS in the shelter, and it may be hard to successfully meet both criteria. HE NEEDS TO KNOW there are also purebreds in the shelters and in breed rescue groups.

He said their plans to get a dog is a huge topic on his website, so let's not stop here and keep informing him and his family.

** PLEASE POLITELY ACT NOW -- LET the Obama's know they can adopt a "hypoallergenic" dog from a shelter OR a breed rescue group. They can go onto Petfinder.com**

1) Obama's contact info:
http://answercenter.barackobama.com/cgi-bin/barackobama.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php

2) The HSUS has a card thanking the Obama's for pledging to adopt. Please sign it. You can write your own message, place the text, and attach a photo:
http://hsus.typepad.com/wayne/2008/11/obama-dog-adopt.html

November 7, 2008 at 3:27 PM
posted by: amyellen

I think a Standard Poodle would be best for the little girls. They are hypo allergenic, and are also large enough so that they cannot get hurt easily. They are also very smart and easily trainable.

November 7, 2008 at 3:17 PM
posted by: Maeve

Just listening to Obama's first news conference when a reporter asked about the dog! He said this has caused a lot of buzz on his web site and he has to meet two criteria: (1) Malia is allergic and (2) they want it to come from a Shelter!!! WAY TO GO Mr. President-Elect:):):):)

Then he did add that a Shelter dog would be a "mutt" (much like himself, he said!) so we have to get word to him about breed rescues.

November 7, 2008 at 2:40 PM
posted by: dogfuzzer

P.S. We really have to consider what they want. Is a powerful bully breed really the best dog for two little girls? I think not. I like pitbulls too and think they get a bad rap, but proper placement of these dogs is really important. I know it will be a family dog, but these girls want a dog they can walk and play with themselves, not be overpowered by. 60+ pounds of pure muscle is not the best choise for them. Schnauzers are nother hypoallergenic breed.

November 7, 2008 at 2:28 PM
posted by: dogfuzzer

As much as we would like the Obama's to adopt a shelter puppy, we have to keep in mind their daughter's allergies. It's not a deal breaker certainly, but it does make the search a little harder. With a mixed breed, it's very hard to tell if it will shed or not or be hypoallergenic as they say. And it's hard to find purebred puppies in the shelter. You will find purebred adults. I'm sure they can still adopt, but the most important thing is for these little girls to get a puppy they can give a forever home to. Not one to which they will get attached and then because of allergy issues have to give away. That would not be good for those children or a good message. If it were not for the allergy issue it would not be a problem. But there are always individual circumstances and Best Friends above all others knows this. And as first time dog owners they may not be the best family for puppy mill puppies. There are lots of issues there too. We have to use the same criteria for placement as we always use. And I'm sure that's the intention.

November 7, 2008 at 1:44 PM
posted by: BikerMark

As a President that has triumphed over prejudice, I think the Obamas should bring a Bully Breed dog to the White House and help stop a prejudice in the canine world.

November 7, 2008 at 1:39 PM
posted by: MMM

Please tell them to contact Small Paws Rescue in OK to adopt a bichon puppy. Recently they have had several litters that were born to former puppy mill dogs. They also recently took in a pregnant stray with chemical burns. The attendant publicity will do wonders for the funds they need to raise to help the many Bichons they rescue every year.

November 7, 2008 at 12:59 PM
posted by: rmlamasney25

Here's a great idea I just heard on the Norm Goldman radio show: the Obamas adopt from a no-kill rescue, and the kids & their mom write a children's book about their pup and the adoption experience, with nice illustrations....maybe sign some copies...the proceeds would go to the shelter! How great would a book about the First Dog from a rescue be for heightening public awareness!

November 7, 2008 at 12:08 PM
posted by: animalnut

The Obamas seem to have made the reasonable decision to wait until spring when they are settled into the White House to get a puppy. I hope they will work with a local, public shelter and adopt whatever dog that they think is right for their family. I love pit bulls too and really hope they regain their status of America's Dog, but if Malia is allergic to fur breeds it wouldn't be a happy family life and everyone would suffer.

November 7, 2008 at 11:30 AM
posted by: jhayes

One more party weighs in on this topic. Whoopi Goldberg's cat wrote a letter to President Elect Obama that encourages him to instead choose a feline. See it on YouTube (at about 6:26).

November 7, 2008 at 11:20 AM
posted by: sherylcatmom

"Hair" versus "fur" dogs include Bichon Frises and poodles. Tons of them in rescue! (I've driven several of both breeds on rescue transports between foster home & forever home. A joyful honor for me. :-))

Other breeds people consider less allergenic, and of which many in rescues/shelters await good homes, include:

Yorkshire terrier
Silky terrier
Chinese crested ( powderpuff)
Shih Tzu
Lhasa apso
Havanese
Maltese

November 7, 2008 at 10:58 AM
posted by: kittychump

Because one of the Obama daughters is allergic to dogs in general, the new First Family is going to need to adopt what they're describing as a "hypoallergenic" dog. What kinds of dogs fit this description? I only know of Afghan hounds [now that would be an interesting choice....]. Anybody know other breeds that have 'hair' rather than 'fur'?

November 7, 2008 at 10:42 AM
posted by: JRCinKY

I heard reports on two television news magazines last night that a Goldendoodle is the front-runner for adoption. We can only hope that should there be any vailidty to these reports that our President Elect will hold firm to his promise and will aquire one through a rescue organization and not a breeder.

November 7, 2008 at 10:33 AM
posted by: dinazu

Ancient customs (sacrifice an animal) exists in many countries, being a moslem myself I resent these customs and I think slaughtering as Qoran says may be replaced by other items which people are in need for more than meat. .. I think Obama would make the best President in the world, making this promiss to adopt and not buy is enough to show that he is our supporter.. I am glad the world has an animal lover leader.. hope he helps us fight abuse of animals in Arab counries.

November 7, 2008 at 10:32 AM
posted by: Noraandkids

Newspapers report many inaccuracies. What relatives and where? Obama does have African roots. These relatives may well be distant shirt tail relatives. We can't pick where we come from or control the actions of everyone in our family. Obama DIDN'T kill a goat in celebration and that has NOTHING to do with his values or how he and his lovely family will treat a dog.

I say "Go, Obama." And since Oprah lives in Chicago, I thought about the possibility they will talk with her. Yes, a Pitbull or mix would be a good statement, but limiting anyone that way is not positive. The dog they choose must speak to them and be right for them, especially their children.

Nora

November 7, 2008 at 10:24 AM
posted by: saveria

The selection of dogs for Mr Obama should include a pitbull. As a proud pitbull owner who is sick of all the discrimanation towards my wonderful dog I would think that a pitbull as the first dog would begin a new turn for all abandoned pitbulls. If Obama is here to promote change then please help us CHANGE all the ruthless and racist comments and actions taken towards the bully breed. Please remember its not the dogs that are bad its the owners and if a good owner with as much influence as Mr. Obama could shed some light in our direction that would be wonderful and a big step for all the good pitbull owners. Thank you

November 7, 2008 at 10:23 AM
posted by: summerdey

I don't think because of some ancient custom in Kenya the Obamas shouldn't be considered a good home for some lucky pup. I didn't realize until yesterday that Malia does suffer from allergies so that will obviously be a consideration in their search. I'm pretty sure 2 Harvard grads will make a wise choice.

November 7, 2008 at 10:18 AM
posted by: DorothyMagdalen

Regarding the comment about Obama's relative killing a goat in celebration. From what I've read these relatives are on this dad's side of his family in Kenya, where is it customary to kill cows, goats and sheep to "eat" in celebration. They weren't killing the animals just to be killing them...please check your facts.

November 7, 2008 at 9:34 AM
posted by: Cat94U2

I just read in my local paper that Obama's relatives had a goat killed for $30.00 to celebrate him becoming President. Why should anyone let him adopt a dog? Maybe they will not take care of it correctly. What did they do with the goat? Cook it and eat it because he became President? No animal ever should be hurt or killed for any reason. Humanity should and must stop thinking in destructive ways. What does our future hold otherwise?

November 7, 2008 at 9:31 AM
posted by: khaisfm

YES, a puppy or even older dog from a shelter in their hometown is the ideal choice....they should fill out the application forms and give references.....what a great example that will be.

November 7, 2008 at 8:00 AM
posted by: cmacdonald

Yes, many of you are right - Obama did say a puppy when the election was over, whatever the outcome. I believe that they will adopt from a shelter, only because they are such close friends with Oprah Winfrey, and her heart is now with all the languishing, dying dogs in shelters. I believe they should select one from a shelter in their hometown of Chicago, for there are so many in need in that city and I believe that someone experienced in successful adoptions can lead them down the path of finding the perfect dog for them. Me - I hope it's a mutt - or even better, an AmStaff or Bull Terrier type of mix. Whichever dog 'speaks' to them. Oh, and a reminder to PETA - goldendoodles are NOT purebreds.

November 7, 2008 at 7:28 AM
posted by: jyrdogs

You have the opportunity to set an example for this whole country not to support puppy mills by buying a dog. Please adopt from a shelter (first choice) and save a life or adopt from a breed rescue group.

November 7, 2008 at 6:49 AM
posted by: Buckeyegirl

Can we somehow let Lisa Peterson and her ilk take a nationwide tour of all the animal shelters in this country. If she can turn her nose up at all the wonderful, loving, faithful pound pups in there, then we'll know for sure what's in her heart. They can pretend all they want that they are 'promoting the best of the breeds' or whatever excuse they use to justify breeding over and over...it doesn't change the fact that thousands upon thousands of dogs (and cats and bunnies) are ignored by the 'dog community'. If they cared at all about each individual life (which they obviously don't) they'd want homes for ALL dogs. I pray the president elect will make a shelter dog his dog. If allergies are a concern, there are 'combination breeds' in shelters too-a lot of them.

November 6, 2008 at 11:46 PM
posted by: MarciaPeters

I would urge Best Friends to lobby the Obamas hard about adopting a rescued pit bull. Imagine the difference they'd make. If Barak said that dog fighting is not cool, not masculine, not brave, that could make more difference than anything else on the issue I could imagine. And the country could watch a happy family pet pit bull in the White House. Malia can probably build up resistance.

November 6, 2008 at 10:48 PM
posted by: ktot

Just a small correction to your comment, "Barack Obama promised his daughters a dog should he win the Presidency." I believe Obama promised his daughters the dog whether he won or lost the election, not just--as you stated--if he won.

November 6, 2008 at 10:16 PM
posted by: macy

I hope and pray Obama keeps his word. when i heard his speech about getting the kids a puppy. I looked all over the internet to make sure he and Michelle were keeping the promise to adopt. He had alot going on that night. I wish he would have said the kids get a rescue puppy.I understand he was really busy. Obama is about change he will be good on his word.

November 6, 2008 at 10:01 PM
posted by: Diagonotter

This is a mistake everyone seems to be making about this story. The gilrs could get a dog, not IF he won, it was when the campaign was over, win or lose.

November 6, 2008 at 9:23 PM
posted by: ahd

I have worked with shelter pups for several years, and truly many are extraordinarily great dogs. Having a mixed breed dog, or better two, adopted would do more good to help these pups than you can imagine since people do identify by association. I highly recomend Best Friends, but any true no-kill shelter would be a great choice like the Animal Defense League in San Antonio, Texas which is the only true no-kill shelter in South Texas. Very few of the SPCA's or Humane Societies are truly "no-kills," but if adopting one out of Utah is not feasible, I am sure that Best Friends can help you to find one. The reason that I suggest adopting two, is my belief that dogs and cats have the right to the company of their own species, and the girls each would probably enjoy having one of "their own." I know that my children did.

November 6, 2008 at 9:21 PM
posted by: mindusmae

Well "boo" on the new york times.. no longer accepting input.
My two cents, please adopt from Best Friends. Puleeze no designer dogs...there are way too many in rescues today.

Good old AMERICAN mixed breed. Much like one one the adorable adoptables from Best Friends.

My vote, Lilli Beauty who was our sleep over baby last week. Older, gracious lady of lab mix.... Fabulous dog.. only wish I could adopt "one more".
(I'm at my limit of 5 rescue animals.)

VOTE FOR LILLI BEAUTY.....

Respectfully,

Mindi

November 6, 2008 at 8:43 PM
posted by: Maeve

I vote for a Vicktory dog!! As for Main Line Animal Rescue, they are near me here in PA and anytime I hear that someone is looking to adopt, I always tell them to check out MLAR. Bill Smith is truly a wonderful human being.

November 6, 2008 at 5:45 PM
posted by: lucysmom

Great idea, cattees! I just checked out Main Line's website, and there's actually a Goldendoodle named Clifford available. He's 2, so not quite a puppy, but he's still young and probably very energetic.

November 6, 2008 at 5:27 PM
posted by: yvette

i think it would be such a remarkable and huge statement for the Obamas to adopt a shelter dog - a rescue.

November 6, 2008 at 5:17 PM
posted by: cattees

With all due respect to BF and other rescues, I kind of hope they go to Main Line, the rescue featured in Oprah's puppy mill episode. I noticed when he mentioned in his speech about the girls getting their puppy, the camera panned immediately to Oprah. It would be am amazing follow-up show and again bring to light the plight of puppy mill dogs.

November 6, 2008 at 5:09 PM
posted by: alexgg

I hope that the Obama's will keep their promise and adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue group. I am worried that once they get to the Whitehouse they won't care. I hope I am wrong. Best Friends will be there to help, so please do the right thing and adopt!!

November 6, 2008 at 4:12 PM
posted by: rmlamasney25

A win-win-win: national attention drawn to saving the lives of homeless pets, bringing the spotlight to the work and caring of Best Friends, and the expert's help in finding the perfect puppy. I vote the Obamas choose Best Friends!

November 6, 2008 at 3:28 PM
posted by: carrie_fosters

They seem to be leaning towards poodles because of Malia's allergies. If you know anyone with rescued poodle pups, have 'em make contact!

Here are some recent puppy mill busts with poodles among the breeds confiscated:

Riverview, Florida

Delaware County, Oklahoma

Emmaus, Pennsylvania

November 6, 2008 at 3:04 PM
posted by: bullydog

Adopt from Best Friends!!!! There are many wonderful puppies and dogs available for adoption and sponsorship!!!

November 6, 2008 at 2:35 PM
posted by: Johanna62

He didn't say anything about adopting when he announced to his daughters that they were getting a puppy -- I hope they still do -- what great publicity for the shelters!

November 6, 2008 at 1:49 PM
posted by: jbandk9s

It will warm my heart to see the Obamas do the right thing here and adopt a dog, sending a great message to the world. Maybe their friend Oprah could help too? Anyway, I had to post cuz I am laughing so hard about "Kara Jacks" naming a kitten Palin because it was so beautiful but not ready to be out wandering around on her own... GOOD ONE!

November 6, 2008 at 11:56 AM
posted by: kara_jacks

Hey how about a kitten. I found "Palin" wondering wondering alone on the highway so very beautiful but not ready to be on her own :)

November 6, 2008 at 11:34 AM
posted by: bogiedew

I hope he takes BF up on their offer.