RIP SUNNY! OBAMAS ANNOUNCE HEARTBREAKING LOSS of their beloved former First Dog after 13 years with the family. “We will miss her terribly

• Former President Barack Obama announced the passing of Sunny, the family’s Portuguese Water Dog, at age 13
• Sunny joined the Obama household in 2013 and became a fixture of White House life during the president’s second term
• The energetic canine was known for her playful personality, loyalty to the family, and unexpected aversion to water despite her breed’s swimming heritage
• Obama remembered Sunny as “always loyal, always sweet, always ready for adventure” in his tribute

Former President Barack Obama confirmed this week that Sunny, the rambunctious Portuguese Water Dog who became one of America’s most recognizable presidential pets, has passed away at age 13. The announcement marks the end of an era for the Obama family, which brought the spirited canine into the White House during the president’s second term in 2013.

Obama’s Tribute to Family Companion

“Yesterday, we lost a cherished member of our family,” Obama wrote in a heartfelt statement reflecting on Sunny’s impact on his household. “We will miss her terribly, and imagine she’s with her big brother now, making sure he’s okay.”

Obama described Sunny as a “force of nature” – an athletic, endlessly energetic companion capable of leaping over South Lawn hedges in pursuit of squirrels and other wildlife. Unlike her older brother Bo, who responded to treats, Sunny demanded active engagement from family members, insisting on running, playing and extended belly-rub sessions whenever possible.

A Unique Presidential Pet

The Portuguese Water Dog became a familiar presence throughout White House operations, greeting dignitaries, meeting with heads of state, and even receiving a blessing from Pope Francis. Sasha and Malia Obama adored the dog, and Sunny demonstrated fierce loyalty to her canine sibling Bo, whom she appeared to monitor closely.

Despite her breed’s historical connection to water and swimming, Sunny developed an ironic aversion to getting wet – a quirk that made her perhaps the most unusually matched presidential pet in American history. She preferred human companionship to socializing with other dogs and was known for her loud, sloppy drinking habits.

End of an Era

“As far as our family was concerned, she was pretty much perfect,” Obama reflected, emphasizing Sunny’s unwavering loyalty and adventurous spirit. Bo, Sunny’s older brother and fellow White House resident, died in 2021.

For millions of Americans who observed the Obama presidency, both Bo and Sunny transcended political divisions, serving simply as the beloved family pets occasionally captured in photographs of history – blissfully unaware of the significance of their residence.

Fox News Digital