National Dogs in Politics Day 2023: On September 23, National Dogs in Politics Day, we honor FDOTUS, who holds a special place in the hearts of every American. There is a long history of dogs and other pets living in the White House; they have endeared us to their owners (the First Families) and even swayed the ballots of animal-rights activists. Learn more about the political history and current role of man’s best companion.
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The history behind National Dogs in Politics Day
In 1952, a dog altered the course of a presidential election. National canines in Politics Day commemorates not only this event, but also the finest political canines in the United States.
On September 23, 1952, Richard Nixon spoke directly to sixty million viewers via television, which was in its infancy at the time. Nixon refuted allegations in his “Checkers Speech” that he had abused campaign contributions. Nixon struck a public sore by mentioning his children and the family dog, a black-and-white cocker spaniel named Checkers, making him appear more personable. Through this speech, Nixon was able to gain the public’s trust, minimize the charges, and remain on the Eisenhower ticket.
Almost every president in White House history had a dog as a family member. It’s not remarkable, considering Americans’ fondness for dogs and the fact that dogs can calm virtually any situation – a trait that could be useful for the most powerful position in the world.
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National Dogs in Politics Day activities
Read the “Checkers” speech.
Considered a turning point in American political rhetoric, the “Checkers” speech demonstrates how easily attention can be shifted from one topic to another. Nixon regained the public’s support with one speech. Orators, political science and journalism scholars, and historians continue to examine the “Checkers” speech today.
Assess Buddy’s book.
While her husband was in office, Hillary Clinton authored “Dear Socks, Dear Buddy,” a children’s book comprising excerpts from over 50 letters written to their first pets, Socks (cat) and Buddy (dog).
Equip your companion with
Utilize your creativity to quickly construct a costume for your dog. You can go vintage with a monocle and top hat, or you can give it a Ronald Reagan-inspired 1980s suit. Take photographs, upload them to social media with the proper hashtags, and wait for the laughter to ensue.
Five Interesting Facts Regarding Notable White House Dogs
- Bo, a Portuguese Water Hound, moved into the Obama White House on April 14, 2009, following a thorough evaluation of hypoallergenic options, as Malia was allergic.
- Spotty, George W. Bush’s English Springer Spaniel, was born to Millie, George H. W. Bush’s dog, while they were in the White House. Spotty is the only dog to have lived in the White House for two terms that were not consecutive.
- Buddy died tragically in a car accident after departing the White House while the Clintons were abroad, much to the chagrin of the Clintons’ cat, Socks.
- Millie, an English Springer Spaniel owned by Barbara and George H. W. Bush, is considered “the most famous White House dog in history”; she has appeared in episodes of Murphy Brown, Who’s the Boss?, and Wings.
- Ronald and Nancy Reagan’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Rex, frequently refused to access the Lincoln Bedroom in the White House. Rex appears to have shared the long-held belief that Abraham Lincoln’s apparition haunts this room.
NATIONAL DOGS IN POLITICS DAY DATES
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | September 23 | Saturday |
| 2024 | September 23 | Monday |
| 2025 | September 23 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 23 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 23 | Thursday |
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