When I heard this news over the weekend, I was clearly disappointed. I don't consider this a missed opportunity, but a shirked responsibility to set an example. What happened to the idea that President Obama wanted a mutt, much like himself? Do I see elitism creeping into the lives of the Obamas now that they are in the White House? Absolutely! What a horrible mistake! I hope this isn't the beginning of a long line of typical, political promises that our leaders make in the hopes of gaining support.

Posted by: Michael Essi | April 13, 2009 02:26 PM

VERY disappointed!

Posted by: Star808 | April 13, 2009 02:27 PM

I realize that Malia Obama, the president's 10 year old daughter, is allergic to dogs but I am sure they could have found a hypoallergenic dog in a shelter. It really annoys me that he went back on his word to adopt from a shelter. I also wonder if they named the dog "Bo" because they are the president's initials. The girls say they have a cousin with a dog named Bo and some other reason but it is still the president's initials.

Posted by: Rex's Mom | April 13, 2009 02:37 PM

Why O Why couldn't they just do the right thing?!

Posted by: Bernadette Sonefeld | April 13, 2009 02:48 PM

I see absolutely nothing wrong with this. This is just nitpicking Alisa.

Bo was homeless due to previous owners giving it back to the breeder. If the breeder was not what we would consider reputable, Bo would have been in a shelter, or worse. Backyard breeders do not care what happens to their dogs after the sale. Bo's did. The Obama's gave him a second chance in a new forever home. What's so wrong about that?

Posted by: Katie | April 13, 2009 02:50 PM

The guy wanted a dog that wouldn't make his kids go into an allergy fit.

Give Obama a break.

Posted by: Pepsi One is Fun | April 13, 2009 02:54 PM

To whoever said that this dog was homeless is just finding excuses for Obama's decision. This dog came from "Kennedy full bred PWD blood lines"...he was NOT rescued. Stop making excuses for him

Posted by: whitney | April 13, 2009 03:10 PM

Congratulations to the Obama's for accepting a homeless dog! The predictability of Bo's temperament, size, coat, health and personality will be appreciated by these first-time, high-profile dog owners!

Posted by: kathy | April 13, 2009 03:26 PM

VERY disappointing! What happened to "A Mutt Like Me"? There are plenty of hypo-allergenic dogs at the SHELTER. This is simple supply and demand... A nice mutt from the shelter would have set a better example.

Posted by: Shelly | April 13, 2009 03:28 PM

There is NO SUCH THING as a hypoallergenic dog.

That is breeder's lies to try to get people to buy dogs instead of adopt

This was an excuse for breaking a promise and getting a status symbol instead of doing the right thing.

Posted by: kelly | April 13, 2009 03:29 PM

That's not surprising. He's done nothing to help animals so far and I doubt he will.

Posted by: Alicia | April 13, 2009 03:30 PM

Bernadette and Katie are right, Malia is allergic to dog dander okay. if President Obama got a portugese water dog from a rescue or shelter it's very possible that Bo would have other dogs dander in his fur! which would give poor Malia an allergic reaction, then the Obama's would have to send him back..AGAIN! this could damage the dogs psyche, never truly trusting a human. but Give Obama a big around of applause for giving money to WHS. they can use that money to add on to the shelter, for food, water, meds, toys and even trips to brings dogs who need a home to people so they can have a better opportunity to be adopted. i love animals i know they are better than humans and i also happy that this organization (PETA) is around to shed light on the evil that happens to animals, but this is a matter that shouldn't be blown to out of proportion. on a finale note i think Obama should make hunting illegal.

Posted by: Holly Snyder | April 13, 2009 03:36 PM

Investigating breeders and puppy mills for years. I love and support peta. But This is just extreme. I'm sory to say it but I am thinking of changing my mind

Posted by: lauren | April 13, 2009 04:05 PM

I am very upset about the Obama's. He promised to adopt from a shelter, and did not keep his word. What else is he not going to do that he promised.

Posted by: Erika Lopez | April 13, 2009 04:08 PM

This is NOT a rescued dog -- it was made to appear that way so that BO, I mean Barack Obama, can say 'technically' he got it through pet rescue. Give us a break.

Posted by: zabata | April 13, 2009 04:46 PM

thank you PETA for this letter. I am saddened and disgusted by Obama/Kennedy's pitiful decision to renege on adopting a shelter dog. What's worse, is that I can't stand being lied to as they come up with these bullsh** excuses as to how a pedigree puppy is somehow a rescue. What a crock.

Posted by: Peter Rodriguez | April 13, 2009 05:00 PM

It may be sad that he did not rescue a dog, but we can't give him crap! Right now Obama, and Biden are getting crap from us animal lovers. It may upset us, but blackmailing him and making this so public is bad. People that over react are giving us a bad name! It is pissing off the public to the point were they refuse to listen to us and the cause we have. We just need to relax and stay neutral with the public. Am I right?

Posted by: Lyndsey | April 13, 2009 05:17 PM

How many dogs do you think you can find in a shelter that are "hypoallergenic"?? (I know there is really no such thing but these are nicer to those with allergies than the majority of dog breeds.) Let's just be realistic and reasonable here please.

As there is no real "hypoallergenic" dog, those with allergies have to spend some time with the specific dog to see if they react to the dog. I see nothing wrong with taking in a dog that didn't do well in a previous home, getting him fixed and giving him a loving family. In short - lay off.

I think efforts would be better spent educating the public about how hyper and demanding this breed can be so that people know better than to go out and buy this dog due to an "Obama effect" instead of buying the dog who is really right for them. I think this is a better long term approach to help educate the public and help people make the right choice for the dog and their families.

Posted by: laynie | April 13, 2009 05:27 PM

This isn't "technically a rescue" but in a way he is - he had a family and they tossed him back where they got him just because they weren't happy! Thank god the breeder took him back or who knows where he would have ended up. Now this poor little puppy gets another home, and you all expected the Obamas to say thanks but no thanks! Come on People!!! Think of this poor little dog!

Don't forget this isn't news about how awful it is that the Obama's took a pure breed dog - this is a story about how a dog that no one wanted got the biggest house in america! Be happy for the dog and get over yourselves!

Posted by: Jackie | April 13, 2009 06:03 PM

Holly Snyder, take a biology class

Dander is in ALL DOGS fur, including this dog

Dander is what causes the allergic reaction.

There is NO SUCH thing as a hypoallergenic dog

That is breeder falsehood

Posted by: Costa | April 13, 2009 06:04 PM

"The predictability of Bo's temperament, size, coat, health and personality will be appreciated "

And that is from an AKC breeder, Kathy, who is trying to shill here for BREEDERS DOGS and trying to get people here to buy dogs

What she means is- a genetically flawed "purebred" dog that is hyperactive and out of control and has more health problems due to inbreeding used by ALL breeders

Supported by the AKC which makes it money from puppy mills!

Posted by: kelly | April 13, 2009 06:07 PM

It could be a great example, adopting a dog...

I am sad, because I believed him. Now, he is like others we know...

Posted by: Cristina | April 13, 2009 06:39 PM

Its a tough argument: on one hand, when I saw the news about Obama's new pup on the Internet, I was disappointed to hear that lil Bo came from a breeder and through Sen. Kennedy. But, on the other hand, at least Bo won't affect the daughter's allergies. And they got the pup neutered, kudos there. & they could always adopt a companion for their new dog!

Posted by: WolfGirl21 | April 13, 2009 06:54 PM

You shortsighted people!!! This is a broken campaign promise! Do you not see the repercussions of this irresponsible choice? Thousands of PWD's will have a miserable life being bred in puppy mills and thousands of dogs will die in shelters because people will follow the Obama's example. He lied to win over animal lovers like myself during the campaign and some of you are still fooled. It's not a rescue dog. A breeder was paid for this dog. HOW is that a rescue? Wake up people!

Posted by: Corey | April 13, 2009 07:08 PM

Everything Obama does is watched all over the world. If he had adopted a real shelter dog and we all know he could have found just the right one, this act would have sent a powerful message and potentially could have saved inumerous lives.

Posted by: Tula | April 13, 2009 07:27 PM

There is NO such thing as a hypo-allergenic dog. People say that so they don't feel so bad about buying "designer dogs". Some breeds may shed less but they are by no means hypo-allergenic. My dog is a poodle mix mutt and she never sheds. I have allergies and I have no problem with my mutts. I also have a constant shedding mutt. No problems with my allergies. Further more, many children are allergic to everything! This is just an excuse. If they are soooo allergic, they don't need a dog. People love to make excuses. Obama talks big talk and I could care less. Never trust a member of the government.

Posted by: josey | April 13, 2009 07:28 PM

All the people that are criticizing the Obama's on where their puppy came from need to get over themselves. It doesn't matter if the puppy came from the Kennedy's, a breeder, or a shelter because it was a NEUTERED dog in need of a home. All that matters is that the Obama family is happy, the dog is hypoallergenic, and the dog is loved. Also, that is one less dog that will end up in a shelter. How about looking at it that way for all of you that are so caught up on shelter dogs. Come on people there are more important things involving animals for people to be concerned about.

Posted by: Brandon | April 13, 2009 08:03 PM

Yes, we should focus on closing irresponsible puppy mills, but frankly, it does no good to get hysterical about where people get their pets from.
I believe the focus should change to RESPONSIBLE pet ownership/guardianship -- no matter where the dog comes from.
Animals from the shelter can present special challenges that many people are not equipped to deal with, and the dog may end up back on the streets or back at the shelter.
Education is key. I've had two shelter dogs, one worked out beautifully, the other had aggression issues that proved to be unsurmountable, and after several weeks I had no choice but to return it to the shelter. At adoption, the shelter had also misrepresented the scope of the animal's behavior problems. Many people want to do the right thing, but going into an situation like this you are unprepared for just makes matters worse for everybody, including the animal.
Sure we should be trying to save pet lives, but the right focus for the solution to the feral/unwanted pet population does goes back to 1) spay/neuter; 2) responsible ownership education (no matter what the source of the pet), and 3) PLANNED breeding (just like family planning) and screening of potential pet owners for aptitude.
Now I have a beautiful 2 year old, easy and even tempered purebreed, who I personally raised from puppyhood, well socialized and with his health constantly monitored. He is also neutered. Unless I die, there's no chance my dog is ever going to be unwanted on the streets, or be abused.

Posted by: Didi | April 13, 2009 08:04 PM

Hey, yeah I admit it's really too bad that they didn't get a shelter puppy. It would have been great if they did. However, they could hardly have declined Ted Kennedy's gift. That would just have been rude. Unfortunately, this put Obama in a bad position. Ya never know, maybe he'll end up adopting a shelter dog as well.

Posted by: David | April 13, 2009 08:16 PM

He must've known about his daughter's allergies when he said he was planning to adopt a dog from a recue centre so why the change of heart.

Posted by: Bluebell | April 13, 2009 08:28 PM

Since this dog is the first dog, why couldnt the girls have a puppy? Seriously, people need to relax. I suggest the next animals be shelter animals, and the Obama's can do a lot to contribute considering the amount of fools who will follow the Obama's every whim. Next dog, MAKE IT BE A SHELTER DOG. As for 'hypo allergenic' I cannot answer this as I am no VET however there are certain breeds of cats who bring me to a cowering rash - your average Tabby does not give me the itchies BUT a Simaese cat does!! It does happen.

Posted by: Christie | April 13, 2009 08:31 PM

I am a FULL bred animal rights activist and I talk my ass off to strangers about adopting animals in lieu of buying them. I think the ONLY problem with the Obamas taking in an animal that was abandoned by it's original owner is solely the fact that he didn't set an 'example' for shelter dogs. I see nothing wrong with 'saving' a dog who is unwanted no matter where they are from. It's the people who ORIGINALLY BUY an animal who are the problem. Obama made an error, but not one that is unforgivable to me.

Posted by: Jill | April 13, 2009 08:51 PM

I am so bummed out about the President going back on his promise to adopt a shelter dog.

My opinion of him is fastly slipping for the worst.

President should be made to go to the nearest shelter and look into the eyes of the next dog that will be executed.

Posted by: Ellen | April 13, 2009 08:53 PM

disappointed

Posted by: annette | April 13, 2009 09:25 PM

Obama is a vast improvement over Bush but he's not a great animal lover. Congressman Dennis Kucinich is the real deal. He's a vegan, an animal welfare activist and a nature steward. He should have been appointed as Interior Secretary or head of the Department of Agriculture.

Posted by: Brien Comerford | April 13, 2009 09:45 PM

I am so very dissappointed with the decision made by President Obama Not to rescue a dog from a shelter. By the simple act of rescuing a dog from a shelter, thousands more would have been saved because so many people would have done the same. What a missed opportunity to do some good for animals.

Posted by: Linda Simard | April 13, 2009 09:56 PM

I too am disappointed that the president did not do as he said he was about adopting from a shelter..I thought that would have been great for maybe more adoptions as that would have hopefully opened more peoples eyes about how shelter pets are the best in the world!!

Posted by: Dolly Austin | April 13, 2009 09:59 PM

it is not extreme at all because people are stupid and see Obama as a celebrity and will now all go and buy Obama dogs. Watch the breeders promote the dog as Obama dog. No doubt and Obama can make amends by passing legislation to end puppy mills. Very disappointing.

Posted by: roxanne | April 13, 2009 10:10 PM

Hello people! The puppy was returned to the breeder the first time. If all breeders were this responsible and took back dogs that were unwanted there would be no need for shelters. Nothing wrong with responsible breeders. Now there is something wrong with puppy mills and shelters that don't educate the public.

Posted by: Katie | April 13, 2009 10:55 PM

I was so disappointed when I heard this!.. Although I am sure the Obama's will give this lucky dog a great home.

Posted by: PW | April 13, 2009 10:58 PM

I'm disappointed that the Obama family chose to get a dog from a breeder rather than adopt from a shelter or a rescue group. I understand the limitations they have because of Malia's allergies, but there are soooo many breed specific rescue groups in this country. They could have found a PWD or other hypoallergenic purebred from a rescue group had they took a little extra time to find one. They could have made an enormous difference for all homeless animals waiting to be adopted, and they would have set a wonderful example by choosing a shelter or rescue dog. I do applaud them for having their dog fixed. I URGE anyone who is considering bringing a pet into their home to give a rescue/shelter animal a chance at a wonderful life...I promise, they will love you for it!!!

Posted by: Kelly | April 13, 2009 11:44 PM

I am VERY angry of this issue. Ombama is messing up in alot of things, the least he could do is rescue an animal. If he doesent want his kids's allergies go into action, dont get a dog, rescue one or dont buy one.

Posted by: Aphrodite | April 13, 2009 11:44 PM

Incredibly disappointed.

I don't believe for one second the whole story about how the dog just happened to be returned to the breeder, and how it just happened to be a relative of Kennedy's dog(s).

Honestly, if that dog isn't at least neutered ...

One can only hope that after this failure to keep a promise, at least Obama can make a VERY big public deal about spaying and neutering animals.

It's the very least he can do.

Posted by: Barbara | April 14, 2009 12:05 AM

As I've said before, I believe that breeders should only be considered when all other options don't yield the right results. A shelter may not have the "right" dog. A breed-specific rescue group is great for finding a purebreed but again, they may not have a dog available who would be compatible with the family. And pet shops are definitely not the place to go.

So the only option left is a breeder but even then, there must be close scrutiny. The Humane Society of the United States has a checklist of what to look for in breeders and the questions that breeders should ask potential clients: Are the dogs part of the family and kept in clean conditions? Are females limited to no more than one litter per year? Is there a waiting list? Will the breeder make sure that any pups from their dogs are sterilized? Does the breeder put the dogs' health as a top priority?

The other issue you need to consider is that Malia Obama has allergies, which limits the options for a suitable dog in the White House. I'm sure the Obamas scoured shelters and rescue groups to find a dog that dodn't shed so much that it would trigger her allergies, so when Sen. Kennedy got back a PWD pup from a client he probably called them and said he had a dog that might work out well for them.

I think the best thing to do now would be to get the message out that PWDs aren't for everyone and that anyone interested in them absolutely must do their research and assess their own lifestyles first. One of my neighbors has PWDs and they're very sweet dogs but are also quite active.

Posted by: shannon | April 14, 2009 12:06 AM

The Obamas did exactly the right thing. They received their dog from a breeder with a policy of taking back any dog that did not work out in its new home. If every breeder had this policy, there would be no shelter dogs.

Posted by: Leanne Bertani | April 14, 2009 12:13 AM

This isn't surprising. Obama has lied about everything else he promised so why is everyone surprised about this?

Posted by: Lewis | April 14, 2009 01:09 AM

Obama lie? Noooooooooooo....
PETA rocks! Don't go soft on Obama. He Lied--Period.

Watch THE OBAMA DECEPTION on-line for free to see how MANY lies he's told already. And no, I can't stand Bush or Rush either.

Posted by: Frank | April 14, 2009 01:10 AM

President and Mrs. Obama's first priority when selecting a dog was their child's health. Malia has allergies but since the whole family was ready for a dog, had to do their homework and get a dog that had less dander which the children could be around. First I applaud that the Obamas did their homework and not just adopt any dog. Not every dog is right for every person or family! They wanted to make sure that this dog's pedigree was pure, to make sure that it was healthy, came from a breeder whose dogs did not have behavioral or medical issues. It is not elitist in the least for the family to get this dog. Given the fact that the dog will be in somewhat stressful enviornment in the white house, it's medical and temperment had to be number one. The only way to assure this was to get a purebred PWD from a breeder who could essentially guarentee the traits of the breed which appealed to the Obamas. Given the fact that the dog came from the same breeders at Senator Edward Kennedy's dogs, it was a good match. Sure they could have gone to a rescue group but they could not have verified the future behavior, or traits of the dog when it grows up which is essential for the safety of the girls. So instead of people being disappointed you should be happy that this dog will have the best life possible, being loved by a family, and being an ambassador for dogs everywhere!
Marie Anne

Posted by: Marie Anne | April 14, 2009 04:19 AM

Thank you so much for addressing this issue. I am deeply saddend by their decision not to adopt. It makes me lose respect for them.

Posted by: Lisa McDonald | April 14, 2009 07:32 AM

I love this line from one of the people commenting here!!!

"Bo was homeless due to previous owners giving it back to the breeder."

Homeless?

I just have a hard time thinking of a dog returned to the royal Kennedy family as being "homeless"...

Such a hard time in fact that I find it a very amusing argument!!!

I think we'd all like to be as homeless as a kennedy dog!

Posted by: Spleen | April 14, 2009 08:09 AM

I have a rescue dog,Bandit.He is half pit and half boxer and a pure joy.They should have kept there promise.

Posted by: brooke | April 14, 2009 08:19 AM

I agree 100% that people will be lining up at pet stores to buy "obama puppies"!!!

Great point.

I also agree that people will be abandoning them once they find out that obama puppies do the same thing obama presidents do once you take them in!

They grow into dogs who leave lots of stinky piles of poop everywhere that have to be cleaned up!!!

I wonder if there's such a thing as an unwanted president shelter...

Anybody know where Jimmy Carter lives?

Posted by: Spleen | April 14, 2009 08:24 AM

They sold out. I am disappointed and disgusted.

Posted by: NT | April 14, 2009 08:49 AM

It's all about choices-Obama originally made this promise to Dr. Jana Kohl, the author of “A Rare Breed of Love” — to adopt a shelter dog. Obama even posing in a photo while holding "Baby": A poodle that had its vocal cords severed because this breeder dog was kept in a small cage, bred like a chicken, and dog was crying a lot. The owners were sick of hearing her. So they took a knife and severed her vocal cords. Albeit there really is no such thing as a "hypoallergenic" dog-the skin flakes or the flea poo stuck on doggie hairs-are actually the culprits to trigger reactions. Though some dogs TEND to have less reactions than others-a poodle too is also hypoallergenic, thus would have served the same purpose and is easily obtainable in many pounds.

This "water dog" costs about $5,000.00 so it is extremely doubtful it would have any difficulty finding a home. Saying that is like saying leaving $5,000.00 on the sidewalk and nobody will ever pick it up. This dog is, in fact, must be guarded due to its purebred rarity. It will further encourage breeders to keep on breeding, and keep puppy mills busy.

Bottom line-the president PROMISED to adopt a shelter dog, and turned around and got this dog.
So it leaves me with this uneasy feeling, gee, if he can't keep a promise that small which is 100% within his control, what about the other much larger promises of change I heard about?

Killing pets-perfectly adoptable dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, is staggering all across our nation costing tax payers a billion dollars a year-just to kill pets. Breeders are adding to this misery of countless tons of pets being dumped into county dump yards (after euthanasia, often with gas) all across this nation. With the economy the way it is, people are dumping literally millions of animals onto the streets and shelters are over run with unwanted pets: They get destroyed, many get gassed to death.

And a president is the role model for the people - undoubtedly breeders are delighted with increased sales of their wares of cruelty, and the shelters will continue to fill in epidemic proportions, and the ceaseless destruction of loving, helpless-dogs and cats. How very tragic.

On behalf of the countless millions of dogs and cats, unwanted and homeless-I cry for you all every single day and is an agony I carry in my heart.

"And can it be that in a world so full and busy, the loss of one weak creature makes a void in any heart so wide and deep that nothing but the width and depth of eternity can fill it up.." Charles Dickens

Posted by: Luke Swanhart | April 14, 2009 08:50 AM

This is the most disheartening of his many broken campaign pledges. America's animal rights crowd was mistaken in believing they've a champion in Obama. Wretch!

Posted by: Leah Bradshaw | April 14, 2009 09:05 AM

I was upset to hear that they did not adopt a sheltered dog, but i don't thinkit was right to make the dog the last one in his lineage.

Posted by: stephanie | April 14, 2009 09:14 AM

I am proud to know that they got Bo from a responsible breeder!!
one who does health testing,
genetic research, and responsible placing of their dogs.
IMO they did the right thing!
PWD's are great dogs.

Lyndy Jacob

Posted by: Lyndy Jacob | April 14, 2009 09:30 AM

Go to petfinder or any other adoption organization and you'll find the dog Obamas were looking for. Bottom line is they went to a breeder. Ted Kennedy is as much a murderer of shelter dogs as is the breeder he uses. A water dog is going to be euthanized cause of Kennedy and Obama going to this breeder. So long as one dog is murdered in a shelter there is no such thing as an ethical breeder. Put the argument in human terms. Humanity ought to put time limits on kids up for adoption. It's all messed up. Humanity is its own worst enemy!!!

Posted by: Ricky | April 14, 2009 09:48 AM

I am so, so disappointed. This whole thing seems rigged to make it "ok" that the Obamas got the purebred they wanted. The Prez mentioned the breed several months ago when they were "looking into" different breeds that Malia would have less potential for allergic reaction to. Every life counts, Mr. President - even the one that you just sentenced to death by accepting the "gift" of Bo instead of adopting from a shelter. Throwing money at shelters to soften the blow of your decision does not "make it right".

Posted by: Rachelle | April 14, 2009 10:03 AM

Ditto to Lyndy's comments! There are FAR MORE RESPONSIBLE BREEDERS out there than this organization would lead the general public to believe! Responsible Breeders PLAN litters to improve the best qualities of their dogs, and stand behind their decisions and the pups they produce. Responsible Breeders put a great deal of time and effort into showing and training their dogs, subjecting them to great public scrutiny in the competitive show ring, in the herding trial or water trial venues, in competitive obedience, in agility, in any number of dog and handler team sports - because a Responsible Breeder's goal is to improve the best qualities in their breed, and leave the breed healthier, sounder of body and mind and temperament, better able to perform the tasks to which the breed was originally developed, and be the best specimen worthy of producing even better puppies for future generations. A Responsible Breeder will take back a pup that doesn't fit into its new household - even if that "pup" is now 16 years old and its original owner has had something catastrophic happen to prevent it from completing its life with the owner. A truly Responsible Breeder *knows* that not every puppy from a litter will have all the qualities necessary to compete successfully in the show ring, or obedience, or agility, or any other venue - and that not every puppy should be producing future litters - and dogs that are not measuring up to the high standards required for competition should NOT be bred, and should be placed in their forever homes on a spay and neuter contract, so they CAN'T produce litters. //Many factors must be evaluated before a pet of any sort joins a household, not the least of which is how that pet might interact with every family member. The Obama family has demonstrated a great deal of care in researching what kind of dog might least affect their daughter's allergies. This was known from before they started their search. They also considered things like the adult size of any puppy, the temperament and adaptability of any puppy to living with its new family, the age of both girls (certain kinds of dogs are considered as not a good fit for families with younger children), and predictability. Most dogs in a shelter do not come from a known background - which can pose a potentially horrible bite risk to small children. Most shelter dogs lack the predictability of stable temperaments or known grooming needs, that come with the choice of obtaining a dog of known background from a Responsible Breeder. Even with a dog where the majority of things are known - health testing and screening, temperament of ancestors back six generations, and a myriad of other tests - there are some things one cannot anticipate. Will the new arrival get along with the other family members - human or animal? In the case of the Obama puppy, it did not get along well with the other dogs in the first owner's household, and for its own safety was returned to the Responsible Breeder who produced that puppy, and took him back, AND made sure he could have a second chance at his Forever Home. //BRAVO to the Obama family, for showing how much care everyone should put into the choice of adding a companion animal to the family! If everyone followed their careful consideration and measured choices, instead of buying a pet store pup on the spur of the moment and tossing it out (unspayed or unneutered) when the cuteness factor wears off, there would be far fewer companion animals in need of rescue.//I own two neutered dogs from the same breeder - the second of which did not work out in his first home, like the Obama puppy. And I volunteer for helping Rescue dogs within my breed, as well as my neighborhood.

Posted by: Pat Pierce | April 14, 2009 10:43 AM

Obama and Kennedy did the RIGHT thing. They bought a dog from a reputable breeder whose dogs do not end up in shelters. Every time someone buys a dog in a pet shop, it increases the likelihood that that dog will end up in a shelter. Less than 10% of all dogs in shelters come from reputable breeders as we take our own dogs back and either keep or re-home them as this breeder has done with Bo. Adopting a shelter dog is a good thing for that dog, but for the proliferation of dogs that are homeless and in need, it just makes the problem worse as it is more likely that the dog adopted from a shelter will make its way back to a shelter in its lifetime. In addition no dog from a shelter comes with a health and temperament guarantee as do dogs from good breeders. We stand behind our dogs, spay and neuter the non-show dogs and do health testing which improves the outlook for all dogs regardless of where they come from. Hurray for the Obama family and their intelligent decision. I hope they have long and happy years with their dog.

Posted by: Caroline Thibodeau | April 14, 2009 10:51 AM

PETA should now start running that commercial featuring the breeder presenting his clients with the body of a shelter dog on the Washington, D.C stations.

I don't know how much tv the Obama girls are allowed to watch but I'm sure they'd see it eventually.

This was a simple campaign promise and he could not even keep this one. That crash you are hearing is the sound of hopes hitting the floor.

Posted by: Rev. Meg Schramm | April 14, 2009 10:59 AM

The President of the United States of America used his Right To Freedom of Choice.
Dogs wind up in shelters because the owners were irresponsible to begin with.
Placing a dog in a shelter only compounds the problem by giving that owner a dumping ground for his leftover unwanted pet. These owners must realize the dog they surrender may pay the price by being euthanized.
Spay and neuter. Educate.

Posted by: Barney | April 14, 2009 11:01 AM

The CEO of the local humane society referred to the dog as a "quasi-rescue dog". More politically correct language designed to hide the truth. The president could have done a great service by adopting a shelter dog.
But look at the source of all this - Ted Kennedy.

Posted by: Alfred E Neumann | April 14, 2009 11:28 AM

Another lie from the O! I am sooo disappointed in him! The pet stores and puppy mills will be busy filling orders from people wanting this breed. People do not realize this is a sporting breed and will be hyper and need a lot of exercise and activity. Get ready for the shelters to be filled with the Obama dogs!!

Posted by: Tracey | April 14, 2009 11:50 AM

What a let-down. Kennedys played "middle man" so that Bo wouldn't be regarded as breeder-direct. I wish all breeders would go extinct.

Posted by: Vegan | April 14, 2009 12:02 PM

Wonderful. I can't believe he didn't go to a Dog Shelter. That would have been a superb example; and would have made a big difference. Shame.

Posted by: Geoff Adams | April 14, 2009 12:30 PM

Why not PEPPER?!

I was curious to see if there are any of this breed up for adoption. Check out petfinder:
http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=13477448

Pepper could have been as great of an addition as Bo will be. I've read some interesting information about the origins of Bo, all of which isn't of Bo's doing. Still all very suspicious!

President Obama is going back on promise after promise. I am upset that he didn't keep his promise to adopt, but as said in the article, please be a responsible owner and neuter!

Posted by: Jen | April 14, 2009 01:27 PM

Even though alot of us would have wanted Obama to adopt a puppy from a shelter, I'm sure he was put into a position where he couldn't refuse the gift. And thank God he did. Poor Bo would have been rejected and who knows what would have happened to him. Instead of critizing Obama, I'm sure he thought about what PETA and all the other animal rights group would think of him. He deserves a break and maybe he'll get a companion for Bo.

Posted by: Patricia | April 14, 2009 01:32 PM

I, too, am disappointed. No the news media cannot be relied upon to focus on the important aspect of the president's acquisition of the puppy--the important fact that someone DIDN'T WANT HIM AND RETURNED HIM TO THE BREEDER! Clearly, the news media doesn't care about pet overpopulation. Once in a great while you come across a reporter who is aware and does weave this crucial aspect into a story, but most of the time it's not even on their radar screen.

Thanks, Ted Kennedy! As long as you've been a dog lover and a Senator and SHOULD be sensitive to, and quite aware of the pet overpopulation problem in our nation, you failed to step up to the plate and draw attention to unwanted animals!

I'm very disappointed in the president and in Sen. Kennedy.

Posted by: Susan T | April 14, 2009 01:43 PM

My dog was 100 % free and was adopted because he'd been at my local shelter the longest. Thats why I chose him, he looked like he just wanted a nice place to call "Home". When I got him I didnt know that he would become my best friend. I love him more then anything.A free dog is the joy of my life that 5000 dollars could have done alot if donated to help homeless pets like mine.

Posted by: Haley | April 14, 2009 01:55 PM

dog dander, hypo-allergenic, puppy mills, rescue dog, rescue groups, missed opportunity, do the right thing, do the wrong thing. democracy shamocracy. Shame on you Obama.

Posted by: vegancoin | April 14, 2009 02:01 PM

No matter what kind of dog Obama had gotten, people would have just flocked to pet stores to get one that physically looked just like it - with little or no concern for the issues that face rescue dogs. The real challenge is to raise awareness, and any support for an animal that was not wanted should be applauded.

Posted by: Kevin | April 14, 2009 02:42 PM

"Responsible Breeders?" NO SUCH THING.

The AKC makes it's money for these "responsible breeders" by registering puppy mill puppies.

That's what pays for the dog shows and all the rest.

Posted by: kelly | April 14, 2009 03:03 PM

I love Obama but I am disappointed.

Posted by: dglandroy | April 14, 2009 03:29 PM

Obama has a huge influence on people, By choosing to get a dog from a breeder has set a very bad example. How many people are going to rush to their local shelter to get an Obama puppie?? probably not many. Its a shame that a family with so much power to do something good chose not to. Obama has alot of nasty things to deal with right now. The first Obama dog could of been such a positive event and he let us all down. Im truly very disappointed.

Posted by: Karmyn | April 14, 2009 03:29 PM

Didi,
The last line of your comment is horrifying!!

"Unless I die, there's no chance my dog is ever going to be unwanted on the streets, or abused." Please, please make arrangements for any and all companion animals now--do not leave it to chance. I am sure you do not want your beloved dog to meet such a fate as unwanted on the streets and/or abused. Please take care of this. PETA can help.

Posted by: ctr | April 14, 2009 03:31 PM

I was completely let down when I heard this. What a completely poor decision he has made. There are thousands of animals in need of homes throughout this country; animals that are cramped in these shelters with no one to love them. Instead, he decided to take the elitist route and choose a dog specifically from a breeder. Another decision of his that is just lacking in compassion. Thanks for reporting on this. PETA rocks.

Posted by: Jessica | April 14, 2009 03:53 PM

In addition to breaking his promise about getting a shelter dog, he is making a PWD very popular and the breed is a very active, bouncy, crazy breed. Additionally he is perpetuating the myth that there is such a thing as a hypoallergenic dog. There is NOT! So Malia who has asthma is still going to be allergic to a low shedding dog as she would be to a shedding dog. Rdiculous.

Posted by: Jane | April 14, 2009 04:32 PM

Growing up my house had a mix of full breed dogs, pound puppies and one found in our bushes.
I still have our first pound puppy's dog tag on my key chain 8 years after her death. Due to this great experience I would not hesitate to get another mutt and have volunteered at local pounds over the years.
Yet, never have I had any anger towards people who choose to get a full breed dog, especially those with children looking for specific child friendly traits.
Disgust needs to be focused on the individuals who mistreat and abandon animals, not those who take in and love a dog. No matter where or how they got them.

Posted by: Jeremy | April 14, 2009 05:35 PM

There are indeed responsible breeders out there. As I stated in an earlier post, my family has owned a spectrum of dogs from full breeds to personal rescues. Our most recent addition to the family is a full breed English Springer Spaniel, our second. This particular Spaniel, Toby, is from a line of dog show champions. He was sold to his original owners for showing purposes and once they discovered hip problems with Toby they were going to put him down.
When the breeders got wind of this they purchased Toby back from the original owners. In turn discounting the price with full disclosure on his medical issues and working hard to find him a home with attentive owners.
As much as don't like to view things in black and white, it is quit obvious where the scorn should be focused in this story. Surely, not at these responsible breeders, which do exist.

Posted by: Jeremy | April 14, 2009 05:56 PM

Bo is simply precious and he would have found a wonderful home! But as many of us know, this means many people will now go out and buy the same dog the Obama's now have and that means many, many shelter dogs will now go to their death! And I mean many! The Obama's promised and they broke that promise! They lied! And that breaks many people's hearts because we know what will happen! They promised and then they lied!

Most of my heroes wear masks!!

Posted by: Judith FFFA | April 14, 2009 05:58 PM

i think obama should not breed the dog because that could injure the puppies and get them sent to an over worked hms which wrong

Posted by: emma | April 14, 2009 05:59 PM

There is nothing wrong with adopting a purebred dog from a reputable breeder...AND there are many of them out there. "Breeder" should not have only negative connotations. Puppy millers are the bad people. Most reputable breeders sell their dogs, but they certainly don't make a profit. I am glad the Obamas got the type of dog they wanted from a breeder who would take back one of their dogs and "re-home" it. Preventing the adoption of purebred dogs will not solve the problem of overpopulation. Only spaying and neutering will do that. BTW I worked for a vet for 5 years. Most of the dogs we treated were crossbred dogs. Mutts are not immune health problems! Jennifer

Posted by: Jennifer Darcy | April 14, 2009 06:29 PM

I have to say that I am very disappointed but I kind of blame Ted. He shouldn't of gave him the dog in the first place, or he should of got one from a shelter It is rude to refuse to accept a restent, epsecially an animal. I think he wil definately get it neutered though. He seems to be realy nice and has realised his mistake and is trying to correct it xoxo

Posted by: Sophiya | April 14, 2009 06:33 PM

Stop making Obama out to be something he is not...he is nothing but a politician and said anything to get elected. His administration also has not been sympathetic to wolves either. Change you can't believe in!

Adopt!!!

Posted by: AAG | April 14, 2009 07:00 PM

I've read a lot of comments and only a few had the response I was looking for. You might not realize this but it is difficult to find a hypoallergenic dog in a shelter. Secondly, breeders don't lie about their dogs being hypoallergenic to get people to buy them. The entire world isn't so stupid as to buy a hypoallergenic dog for the hell of it and most all people who buy/adopt dogs do research on what dog is right for them. If I read correctly the dog was a gift. Let me ask you what would have happened if they had not accepted him? He could have quite possibly ended up in a shelter, I do not find any fault in the Obama's decision and lastly Bo does NOT stand for the president's name, that is meaningless propaganda.

Posted by: Brianna | April 14, 2009 07:38 PM

While I agree that its likely the BO will cuase others to want a similar dog I do not remember past presidents being called out for their purebred dogs. GW Bush had a spaniel and terriers, Clinton had a chocolate lab, Bush senior a King Charles Caviler, Ford a Golden Ret, Nixon had alot of pure bred dogs.

Posted by: Joanna | April 14, 2009 07:45 PM

The fact is that ALL homeless dogs need homes - those at the shelters, at the breeders' and even at the pet shop. What I doen't understand is why all this "breeding" is allowed when there are millions of dogs being euthanized everyday because there are no homes for All of them?? It's a very sick cycle.

Posted by: canuck chic | April 14, 2009 08:45 PM

They should have gotten a CAT!

Posted by: Terri | April 14, 2009 09:36 PM

Yet another disappointment from Obama.

He also said he would stop mountaintop removal mining which buries countless wild animals alive.

Posted by: Brad | April 14, 2009 10:24 PM

oh come on. At least he is giving a dog a great home. is this dog less deserving of a home then the next dog? I am just glad this dog didn't have to go to the shelter. Also the dog is hypoallergenic and was a GIFT. And Obama never promised to get a shelter dog.

He didn't do anything WRONG here, you know? It seems like you would have preferred it had he not got a dog at all. My cats are shelter cats, don't get me wrong...but I don't think we should be berating our president like this.

Posted by: Lacey | April 14, 2009 11:07 PM

I'm glad you sent them a letter expressing our disappointment at their choice. However, I am a pragmatist and I perceive that President Obama is too. I am afraid that once the vernerable Senator Kennedy became involved and offered to arrange for them to get "Bo" it would have been political suicide not to accept. We need to support President Obama even though he may not always do what we would prefer. If he's going to be able to get the changes accomplished that he promised and that he feels deeply need to be made, he has to make some difficult choices and compromises. I do have a question though, is there really any such thing as a "hypoallergenic" dog? I thought that it's not so much their fur, but their saliva that gets on the fur or the person that causes the allergies. Does anyone know?

Posted by: Eden | April 14, 2009 11:16 PM

Bo could have ended up a shelter dog, but he was adopted before he made it there. What is wrong with adopting him? Think about the dog... He's got a great family, lots of space and a home. Isn't that what we're all working at?

Posted by: Liz | April 14, 2009 11:16 PM

This is a BROKEN promise by Obama. This is NOT change and certainly nothing a dog in a shelter can believe in. Shame on you Mr President.

Posted by: Chrisq | April 15, 2009 12:06 AM

I just hope that Malia won't get any allergic reactions from this dog in the future.
I don't really know what the situation is with the background of the dog, but I do know that someone famous should start a campaign for shelter animals. People are so influenced by celebrities. Then again, don't store pets get donated to the shelters if they're not bought?
Secondly, I don't quite believe that just because an owner can't spay or neuter an animal means that they shouldn't have it. My family just wanted to give our cat love, and by the time we owned her from being on the streets, she was pregnant. Without our love, she would've been lying in the middle of a street because we gave her trust in humans. Yeah, she died because she'd had too many kittens in her life (before we came along), but we learned our lesson by fixing her children.

Posted by: A. Wallace | April 15, 2009 12:50 AM

Jen: as far as Obama being in a position where “he couldn’t refuse the gift”? I think that’s a very naïve perspective. I'm not typically a conspiracy theorist, but come on...this has all the makings of a perfectly executed plan. Kennedy acted as the middle man, in order to act like this was all some kind gesture, and a coincidental solution to the puppy dilemma. I believe instead that the decision was calculated by Kennedy AND Obama. I was a huge fan of Obama, but since he’s been in office my hopes for “change” has dwindled week by week. As an animal lover, this turn of events made me lose even more trust in him.

As far as the statement that Bo “would have been rejected and who knows what would have happened to him,” it’s public knowledge that the breeder has a policy of accepting their dogs back. He/she is the type of breeder who keeps that dog if no second home is found. Bo would’ve been safe and sound. Bo was not rescued at all. That’s such a transparent excuse by the administration. If the Obamas had instead adopted a rescue (whether at a shelter or breed rescue), they would have sent a strong message to the world that elitism should never come into play with companion animals.

What others have said about the fact that now the breed is going to be in high demand, and shelters will get fewer visitors as pet seekers resort to pet stores and PWD breeders. Jessica you’re so right in what you say about the breed. Portugeese Water Dogs can have the following traits (on the yourpurebredpuppy site).

•Vigorous exercise requirements
•Rowdiness and exuberant jumping, especially when young
•Destructiveness when bored or not exercised enough
•Strong-willed mind of his own, requiring a confident owner who can take charge
•Regular brushing and clipping
•Mouthiness -- carrying and chewing objects, mouthing your hands
•A high price tag
•Serious health problems

This breed sounds like a handful that many people won’t be willing to deal with once the “honeymoon phase” is over. Remember when 101 Dalmations came to theaters? Thousands of people got in line for a dalmation. They bought from breeders (who were probably drooling over the cash cow opportunity). Thousands of dalmation owners soon regretted their decision, because of traits similar to a PWD. The consequence? Thousands of dalmations abandoned, returned to breeders, sent to shelters, etc.

I agree with the opinion of most of the people who’ve posted here...this was a seemingly innocuous decision which instead will have widespread repercussions, boiling down to the fact that more shelter dogs will be killed as many follow in the footsteps of the Prez, and resort to buying from a breeder. As for those who say to give Obama a break...how does that make sense, when he couldn't even give a shelter dog (I'm sure there are MANY Malia wouldn't be allergice to) a break?

This whole thing is a crying, dog-whimpering shame.

Posted by: Christine | April 15, 2009 01:45 AM

ya know i think obama had a good reason too have a dog he made a good way too get a dog like that the dog does deserve a second chance

Posted by: doctor of thugonomics | April 15, 2009 08:08 AM

Not surprised he went back on his word. If he wasn't going to adopt from a shelter for sure he should have never promised to. He has already went back on his word about other things too. I'm sure this won't be the last.

Posted by: rita | April 15, 2009 09:02 AM

What Obama did is VERY tragic! It will cause so much death and suffering over the world due to his present popularity. Decades of progress from Bob Barker telling viewers to "spay and neuter" has just been wiped out! PETA should get SUPER-aggressive on this issue which may force Obama to get a second dog. PETA should send protesters in mass to the White House. The fact that Joe Biden did the same thing should enbolden Peta even more. Please PETA do not wimp out the way HSUS is on this issue.

Posted by: Gerry | April 15, 2009 11:16 AM

All us animal lovers are trying to abolish puppy mills. So sad that this may
open up new doors for future
puppy mills.

Posted by: mfh | April 15, 2009 11:55 AM

A Portugese Water Dog is not a good choice for the Obamas who admit to never having a pet previously. They're not telling the truth about why the dog's name is BO either. Isn't it obvious, those are Barack's initials? I don't think it's fair to the dog that the Obamas won't be available to socialize him properly, which is extremely important. Like the Bushes, someone else will be walking the dog, which will confuse and upset Bo. I don't think that breed of dog(worker) is a good fit for the White House either. Imagine all the 'damage' Bo will do because he's stressed out and he doesn't know what his 'job' is?? I think the entire choice was irresponsible and unfair to Bo!! He's already had 3 homes before he came to the White House. When the Obamas realize they made a bad choice, Bo will be looking for his 5th home. I think they should help find him a permanent home that is more suitable for him and in his best interest!

Posted by: ROlson | April 15, 2009 12:43 PM

When the kids get bored with Bo, or when he gets too large or too rowdy, whichever comes first, he'll be handed over to the White House gardeners to take care of, just like the Bush's Scotties were.

Posted by: Rev. Meg Schramm | April 15, 2009 01:17 PM

Just as sad is that now stupid, mindless americans will want the same dog and pathetic, selfish breeders will be more than happy to breed more of these dogs (for profit and greed of course).

The Obamas - no doubt could have somewhere in this country found a shelter dog that would have worked for their family. They copped out and that is NOT ok!!! Shelter animals all over this country have been negatively affected by this poor choice and I am deeply upset about it.

Posted by: michele | April 15, 2009 03:40 PM

I think it would have been nice if he had gotten a shelter dog, but face facts. Some shelter dogs are incredible, but a loto f the dogs that shelters get have been abused or neglected, and have issues from that. I know a wonderful shelter dog who is an incredible sweetheart. I also know a shelter dog who has a panic attack if a stranger stands too close to him. I had people's rescue dogs shy away from me/become agressive at me when I was on crutches because they had been beaten, and the crutches upset them. Sometimes you luck out. Sometimes you don't. The Obamas needed a dog that wouldn't be a problem with their daughter's allergies, that could handle the environment, and that was compatible with the family. If they didn't find that dog in a shelter, it would be irresponsible to take a shelter dog just because Obama had naively said he would. How about we emphasize the fact that he did his research, neutered his peet, and took good care of it, and encourage people to emmulate that?

Posted by: Tia | April 15, 2009 05:23 PM

Ergh! I loved the Obamas! I still LIKE them...but most rescue dogs are just as cute! DISSAPOINTED!

<3Peta<3

Posted by: Lindsey | April 15, 2009 10:39 PM

I don't think he had the time for a shelter dog, being the persident and all.

Posted by: Oahu | April 15, 2009 10:40 PM

Agree with posters above that Obama broke a promise. Got an expensive high maintenance dog from a breeder and now others will rush to do the same. And they won't be able or willing to care for them, so those puppies WILL end up in shelters.

Also agree it looks pretty darn convenient that Uncle Teddy "gave" the Obamas just what they wanted, in just the way that helps them (to their minds) absolve their responsibility for breaking a promise and acting irresponsibly.

It's not the first time we've seen Obama say one thing and do another (think taking federal matching $$ for election, and there are many other examples), and I'm sure it won't be the last. He says what he thinks people want to hear, and then does what he darn well pleases.

Sad that in this case who will pay the price are lots of innocent animals ...

Posted by: Opin | April 15, 2009 10:42 PM

I am glad this bruhaha has come up over this dog. It just encourages people against animal cruelty to speak their mind.

I have 2 cats I got that were abandoned by their owners in the winter, and they are the most loving adorable kitties I have ever had, and I NEVER PURCHASED AN animal from a breeder.

The ones I have are much smarter!

Judith Krummeck

Posted by: Judith Krummeck | April 15, 2009 10:56 PM

For me it's a case of politicians saying the correct thing and then doing as they please. I agree with those who say it was a missed opportunity, but it goes even further than that - it's simple hypocrisy. Of course, those now in power know best what the rest of should do, just don't expect them to follow the dictates they put forth - they're above all that. Yes, I'm disappointed by this, but not surprised.

Posted by: Anne | April 15, 2009 11:49 PM

OBAMA TOOK THE ETHICAL LOW ROAD ON SOMETHING THAT WAS SOOOOOOOOOOOO EASY AND SOOOOOOOOO UNCOMPLICATED AND YET HE SUCCUMBED TO POLITICS LEAVING COMPASSION TO WITHER ON THE VINE.

HE IS A ROLE MODEL WHO MODELED THAT THE ANIMALS IN SHELTERS ARE NOT IMPORTANT ENOUGH TO HIM AND THEREFORE OTHERS SHOULDN'T WORRY TOO MUCH EITHER. HIS ONE ACTION SHOT ALL THE ANIMAL PROTECTION GROUPS IN THE FOOT! HIS SIMPLE ADOPTION COULD HAVE HELPED STOP THIS EPIDEMIC.

THIS IS PITIFUL! PRESIDENT AND VP TOOK THE ETHICAL LOW ROAD ON SOMETHING SO EASY TO "SCORE POINTS" FOR AND SO ABSOLUTELY CRITICAL..... THANKS PETA FOR YOUR GOOD WORK AND OFFERING TO SPAY THE DOG.

SAD STATE OF AFFAIRS!

Posted by: CAROLYN | April 15, 2009 11:59 PM

Why can't they adopt a shelter dog as well? I think its better to have 2 or more, the shelter dog could keep Bo company while the Obama's are busy. Is there a white house rule that you can only have 1 dog? I don't think there is... I think they should adopt as well to set a good example and encourage adoption.

Posted by: Christie | April 16, 2009 12:08 AM

PETA is going over-board with this??? Are you kidding me?? I think I smell a rat, I think the AKC is working this sight and having people post comments. Obama had an ethical and moral responsibility to adopt from a shelter. Obama and Biden simply jumped on the "I hate Sarah Palin because she hates animals" bandwagon. They saw an opportunity for votes from a huge population...animal lovers. Boy have we all been hood-wincked or what? And that idiot Biden also adopted a pure breed German Shepard last month from a known miller who currently has 8 violations against them by the USDA. What jerks both of them are. I know animal advocates across the country are crying. It was a huge opportunity and now it's gone. One more thing, notice how Obama said they definitely plan to adopt a shelter dog, then it turned into we hope to adopt a shelter dog after the election. This is what the masses will remember, his comments after the election, this was prob. orchestrated by his PR people too. To anybody out their who thinks we shouldn't be pissed...go straight to hell!!! Keep up the great work PETA, you are the best, God is singing your praises!!!

Posted by: Paula Warner | April 16, 2009 12:31 AM

I'm sure the breeds considered were considered with input from Malia's Allergist and probably from obedience trainers as well.

The Obama's first duty is to protect the health of Malia, and he had promised the girls a 'puppy' not a full grown dog.

Also the temperment of both the parents and several generations of ancestors is known to REPUTABLE breeders.

And I would imagine that few people can shell out 5k for a puppy and even fewer would for one who had been spayed or neutered.

I have always considered the whole deal was much ado about nothing and all Obama promised was to TRY for a shelter or rescue dog. At the time he may not yet have been told that a very few breeds would fit in at all with Malia's allergies.

Posted by: SusanEizabeth1949 | April 16, 2009 12:39 AM

@Pat Pierce and Caroline Thibodeau: Thanks so much for trying to 'talk sense' to some of these people regarding breeders. I am, and have been for many years, a breeder. I do NOT run a 'puppy mill. I have a licensed operation. I am very careful with my animals. I raise them because I love them, and do not want to see them 'overbred'. Responsible breeders are very careful of our breed's genetic pool, and make every effort to assure that our puppies come from unrelated individuals. We also take great care of all of our animals. (BTW, I am lucky in any given year to 'break even'. I seldom make a profit, or at least one that compensates for all the work I put into my business. Of course I have to have a 'real' job as well. AND I have 2 'pound cats' myself. There is room for us all. Christine, you listed all the 'requirements' for caring for a PWD, but you know what, when somebody adopts a
certain breed, they're pretty sure of what they're getting, and the information for caring for that animal is right there. When one adopts from a shelter, they oftentimes have no idea of 'what' they're getting. No clue at all as to what the requirements for caring for that specific animal may be. They could be just as difficult, or even more so
than a PWD.I do believe in adopting from a shelter when that's a viable choice, but it isn't always for everybody. Please, pets are pets, and deserve our love. All people are different, with different needs and requirements in a pet. They should NOT be judged on that. I'm getting so 'sick' of 'political correctness'. So many things that were simply taken for granted as 'God-given' rights are now 'unforgivable sins'. Where will it all stop? Once there are no more drinkers, smokers, prayers in school, pure-bred dog owners, etc. in the world, what goes next? I'm certain most of you have lots of ideas on what you'd like to see 'outlawed' or made socially unacceptable next. Please, can't we just 'live and let live'? This is about far more than President Obama's decision to adopt that specific dog.

Posted by: Carolina | April 16, 2009 06:00 AM

I'm extremely disappointed in the decision made... EXTREMELY. It doesn't matter who you elect... they all tell you lies to get a vote; I'm beginning to think this isn't the last of Obama going against his word...

Posted by: Christina | April 16, 2009 10:42 AM

Sell outs... If the kid's allergic, you don't need a dog. Let's sit back now and watch what else he'll do to fit in...

Posted by: Battle | April 16, 2009 11:56 AM

To Carolina:

Have you visited the Petfinder site at all.
Within the last month hundreds more cats/dogs have been posted!

I bought my two huskies from a breeder 15 years ago and once my boys pass on we will get our next dogs from a shelter.

It's the humane thing to do!

Posted by: Ellen | April 16, 2009 12:42 PM

I am so disappointed in our new president. His actions will lead people to want this type of dog from a breeder, puppy mill, and/or pet store, and thousands of dogs at shelters will be left to die. Shame on him!

Posted by: Susan Janes | April 16, 2009 03:14 PM

You can please some of the people some of the time and none of the people none of the time. If you look for something to be wrong, you generally can find it. There are a lot more issues; like child abuse, little Sarah Cantu.

Posted by: LJ | April 16, 2009 07:35 PM

I'm very disappointed with both President Obama and Senator Kennedy. The dog IS NOT a rescue, and Obama should have kept his promise to adopt a dog from a shelter. What a bad decision has been made by two of our leaders...

Posted by: Robson Nascimento | April 16, 2009 08:16 PM

I see nothing wrong with what he did. This dog needed a home just as much as any other dog, and it is my understanding that Bo had been returned by not one but 3-4 other homes. (In my opinion this was a rescue dog)

And although there may not be hypoallergenic dogs, there are dogs that have less of an allergic effect on people with allergies... this dog being one of them. I do think he had to take this into consideration for the sake of his daughter and the dog.

Posted by: Nora | April 16, 2009 08:30 PM

A missed opportunity for President Obama and his family to highlight the plight of dogs in a shelter. I am disappointed but thank God Bo is neutered.

Posted by: Diana LeBrun | April 16, 2009 08:30 PM

Kennedy BOUGHT "Bo" from the breeder. If he were not sold to Kennedy, the breeder would have sold him to someone else.
"Bo" would not have gone to a shelter, if Kennedy had not bought him, and gave him to the Obama's. Instead, the breeder would have sold him to someone else, or, made some more money off of him by using him to impregnate female dogs the breeder uses to make money.

Posted by: Nancy | April 16, 2009 08:38 PM

I am a huge PETA supporter but am in disagreement with their views on the new presidential dog. Please understand that President Obama DID in fact rescue that dog! The news in Chicago (4 channels) reported that this dog was returned from THREE homes. What do you think happens to a dog that is returned from THREE different homes? People do NOT want a pedigree dog that has behavior issues. Call it what you will, but just because he did not walk into a shelter, does not mean he didn't save this dog's life. And don't punnish the girl's unfortunate allergy by banning her from the love and compassionate life choices they will make by growing up with a canine member of the family.

Posted by: Leanne | April 16, 2009 09:22 PM

While it is clear that adopting a rescue dog would have been a good message for Mr. Obama to send to the public, who on earth would turn down a dog from Senator Kennedy? To do so would have been extremely disrespectful. While he could, of course, have said no, the Senator was offering a gift - and lets please remember how important the Senator is, especially as he has comported himself with dignity and grace in the face of a horrible illness. The Senator's gift shows that he respects Mr. Obama, and by taking the dog, Mr. Obama shows that the respect is mutual.

Posted by: Sara | April 16, 2009 09:43 PM

So why can't the President still adopt a shelter dog? Dogs are pack animals - most of the time 2 dogs are better than one. They have the space and the money and I assume the time. Obama could and should still keep his word if he was serious about it at all. Peta should suggest this to him - would be a positive step forward.

Posted by: Bretta | April 16, 2009 10:59 PM

I am very sad, having worked at a no-kill animal shelter for 15 months, that Obama did not adopt from a shelter, any shelter. It is so disappointing to me. Whatever happened to his friend, Oprah. She sure learned a lot about puppy mills and adopted her 2 pups (one which died of parvo and the other recovered) PS, you can get diseased dogs just as easily from breeders than shelters so please don't let that stop you from adopting.
Please spay and neuter you pets. Thousands are euthanized each day because there is no room for them. Please. Do the right thing.
If you were in Raleigh, NC, you could get your animal fixed for $45.00 or less and financial assistance is available. www.spcawake.org.
Thanks for listening.~woof from Clancy, my love and best friend, a shelter dog!

Posted by: karen nyreen | April 16, 2009 11:18 PM

Another broken promise by Obama. Not surprised. Let's hope the dog can count on him.

Posted by: aea | April 16, 2009 11:46 PM

"Breeders Kill Shelter Dogs Chances". Just proved once again right in front of our eyes.

Posted by: Tammatha | April 17, 2009 12:30 AM

When whinging about Obama lying when he said he would adopt a dog from an animal shelter, consider that the dog was a gift. Consider the awkwardness of refusing a gift in his position and how many dogs given as unsolicited gifts end up in shelters. Now which would be preferred, refusing the gift and adopting another animal only to leave the first animal abandoned simply because it had the misfortune to be given as a gift and be pure bred or to accept the gift animal because the animal didn't choose to be given as a gift nor did Obama choose to be given the gift.

Now, in his position, he was in a damned if he did, damned if he didn't situation. What would you people suggest? Abandoning an animal because someone wanted to give it as a gift but you intended to adopt an already abandoned animal or give a home to the animal?

Posted by: Valentine | April 17, 2009 01:17 AM

I'm in Australia and when I heard Obama say he was going to get a shelter dog I really felt that was great. It was Obama that made this a political issue, he could have gotten any dog for his girls without any flack after he had gotten in to office but he made it a political statement in order to get the animal lovers vote.

Then I heard he wanted a PWD and straight away I thought there is no way he will find one in a shelter, I knew he was going back on his election promise. It all sounds arranged to me.

This doesn't only affect American dogs in shelters the whole world is watching your president and will now want a PWD.

It is a lost opportunity and a big shame for those dogs that will be pts because of his decision. I hope he knows that he has got himself in to as well, dogs don't just live for
the presidents term, if he doesn't get in again he will have Bo to handle after he goes back home.

Posted by: Sonia | April 17, 2009 03:27 AM

One of the breeders here said that dogs from shelters are not health tested, or trained. I have to say that I have volunteered at a shelter for over 10 years who health tests all the incoming animals and does do training with the dogs. Wonderful dogs come out of shelters. Even many wonderful Purebreeds!!

What I would say back to you breeders is that your dogs come with many problems that overbreeding causes. Mutts do not have a lot of the same problems.

Anyways, Back to Obama. The only reason I am not totally dissapointed is that he did need a dog with low allergy maintenence for his daughter. There are not a lot like that . The poodle is one, the Portugese water dog is one, but these are dogs you do not usually find in shelters. I mean realy, I checked the other night for rescue portugeese water dogs and none came up.

so, that being said. I would rather have seen the Obama family GO to a shelter but they may not have adopted do to the fact that there are not a lot of hypoalergenic type dogs. In fact what dogs are hypoalergenic? Poodles, Portugeese water dogs, and bald dogs? those are the only ones I can think off.
But,on the other hand they did get a dog who needed a home and who was given them as a gift. I read that he had been passed around more then once , so I feal they did get a rescue dog of sorts. Anyways, the cute littly guy needed a home too.

It is a gray area. I feal fine about. I still support Obama and I still support Peta.

Posted by: Susan | April 17, 2009 03:57 AM

I'm also disappointed that Obama didn't took a shelter dog.

About the allergy. There are very good therapies that can cure people 100% from dog allergies like bioresonance therapy. With cat allergies it's more difficult because it's more agressive and while people can be "cured" from the allergy from common cats. the allergy can remain for Maincoon or Norwegian Forrest cats. But the allergenes from dogs aren't that agressive as the catallergenes and normaly people respond very good to the treatment and don't have any allergic reactions afterwards with contact with dogs.
So especially for Obama who has the money to get his daughter a bioresonance therapy for her allergy, her allergy can't be an excuse and they could get whatever breed from the animal shelter and give an example to the people. Now I think that a lot of not so bonafide breeders will start to begin a portuguese water dog "factory" and lot of puppys ( and afterwards dumped by their owner dogs)will suffer for this. Just look here in Europe what happens to al alot of chihuahuas after the Hilton hype.

Posted by: Nathalie | April 17, 2009 06:17 AM

I am very disappointed and saddened the Obamas didn't bring a beautiful loving grown dog or pup into their home and lives which they adopted from a local rescue or shelter. There are so many dogs begging for another chance to show their love. Where their hearts were in this decision definately, was not in the right. I now question, if they wanted a dog period, but did so as a first family tradition. All signs says it looks that way. They went even to the extent of allowiing Sen. Kennedy find the safe course of selecting the dog for them. I wish I was wrong.

I look at the many dogs I helped rescue and count the dollars I donated to groups to save dogs in hopes of a life in a loving home. I look at the rescued dogs in my home which give me and my family all their love.

I thank those who read this and have done the presidential thing of rescuing and not selecting as the Obamas did of keeping the breeding process alive.

As a president, he closed that book of opportunity and a page in my book of belief in him and his family as compassionate people towards helpless animals.

Posted by: Dell | April 17, 2009 09:41 AM

First of all, Obama never promised to get a shelter dog. He made it quite clear early on that Malia had allergies, so a "mutt" may not be possible. On another note, I adopted my two cats from someone on Craig's List because he could no longer keep them due to allergies. I still think of them as saved or rescued. Just because an animal isn't in immediate danger of being euthanized doesn't mean that it isn't worthy of a forever home. What about breed rescues or no kill shelters. If people are advocating only adopting animals from high kill shelters, non-profits will cease to exist. I know people who foster dogs from these high kill shelters, should these dogs, since they are no longer on death row never be adopted. I couldn't love animals more, but I think to accuse the Obama's of being elite because they adopted an older puppy from a breeder is off base.

Posted by: Megan | April 17, 2009 11:32 AM

I live in Maryland ,close to D.C. and at the time, there were around 17 portugeuse water dogs needing a good home. A wise man would have checked there first. Breaks my heart.:(

Posted by: jennifer morgan | April 17, 2009 11:38 AM

The president and his family have a right to pick a dog they want.
If this doesnt suit the general public , so be it. I have a dog, and I stress to those who wish a dog to always go to the shelter to get a dog. I am a memb er of Best Friends and several other rescue organizations
I give money to PETA but not in a check. I do nopt want the ads and gifts and flyers so I send a money order without an address.
I think PETA does a gret job.

Posted by: sybil ward | April 17, 2009 01:09 PM

To all the breeders here, I think it's hilarious that you say spay & neuter and responsible pet ownership will solve the problem. Don't any of you catch the irony there? Who deemed it okay for you to not spay & neuter and to actively breed dogs, but if John Q Public gets a dog and doesn't spay & neuter, THEN it's suddenly a problem. Please get over yourselves. You're a part of the problem too. What's good enough for everyone else is good enough for you. Also all of this "I'm responsible because I'd take a dog back if someone didn't want it" stuff is silly too. Bo Obama's breeder is 70 and has cancer. What if she's not around to take Bo back when the Obamas leaves the White House, Sasha and Malia go off to college and Barack and Michelle don't need a pup for photo ops anymore? Yes, I know someone else would take Bo, but what about the other dogs out there?

Also, I can't believe so many people bought this story about Bo being a quasi "rescue" who was returned to the breeder! To me, it sounds like a nice little story made up for the benefit of Sasha and Malia, who maybe felt conflicted after they had already learned about why the family was planning to rescue a dog but then fell in love with Ted Kennedy's dog and decided they wanted a puppy just like Cappy! Instead of teaching them that sometimes there are hard choices to be made, the grown-ups wink winked and nudged nudged and got the girls a "rescue dog" who, lo and behold, just happened to be a littermate of Ted Kennedy's dog, Cappy, and who just already "happened" to be in the D.C. area and was "given up" by his original owner just at the perfect time to get trained for a month by Ted Kennedy's trainer before the Obamas' appointed date for getting a dog. Lesson for the Obama girls: when you have power and money, everything just works out magically for you and it's all fairy dust and unicorns! (Good lesson - will make the real world that much colder and harder should the poor girls every encounter it.)

In case you can't tell, I'm disappointed the Obamas didn't get a rescue dog. They know better. But as someone else said, the made up fairy story (aka lie) about Bo being a rescue who was "returned" to the breeder just makes it all the worse. Just be grownups and admit you decided to go with a breeder. Use the allergy excuse if you want - most people, apparently, will buy it.

By the way, I knew as soon as they mentioned that they were narrowing their search to specific breeds and mentioned the Golden Doodle as one of them, that they were more concerned with shallow appearances than actually getting a 'hypoallergenic" rescue dog. If allergies and rescue are your main concerns, then why a Golden Doodle, which is a higher allergy breed mixed with a lower allergy breed (the poodle.) But a poodle wasn't on the list. Not cutesy or rare enough? (But fully "hypoallergenic.) That said a lot.

Posted by: LimePopsicle | April 17, 2009 03:21 PM

They should have got a dog from the shelter. They don't know what dog is down at the shelter their are so many dogs sitting their waiting for someone with a big heart and a good home to come and saved them.

THE OBAMAS ARE JUST THEY WAY I FELT THEY WOULD BE. I HAVE Allergies TO, AND HAVE ALOT OF MONEY LIKE THEM AND I GOT A MUTT FROM MY SHELTER AND I LOVE HER TO DEATH. I THINK THEY ARE TRYING TO BE LIKE ALL THE OTHER'S IN DC THAT HAVE MONEY THEY ARE FOLLWERS NOT LEADERS AND I AM HAPPY I DIDN'T VOTE FOR HIM, IF EVERYBODY IN THE STATE'S WENT AND GOT A SHELTER DOG WE WOULDN'T HAVE SO MANY IN SHELTER'S IN THE FIRST PLACE

Posted by: ashley luther | April 17, 2009 03:28 PM

Obama has not kept his word about several things, I am not surprised that he did not take a shelter dog, he is one and done.

Posted by: rg | April 17, 2009 03:51 PM

Well said Michael Essi!

Posted by: Jenn | April 17, 2009 05:15 PM

Wow. What a great example President Obama set.. He should be a leader and not go back on his word.

Posted by: Julia | April 17, 2009 06:03 PM

He got this dog from Ted Kennedy not from a puppy mill. He did the right thing because his daughter has allergies. I"m sures he loves the dog as much as his daughters. They had running with the dog at the White House.

Posted by: Joan Faszczewski | April 17, 2009 06:45 PM

There was a dog available at a shelter exactly the same breed as this puppy. I am very disappointed that he did not keep his word and adopt from a shelter. I volunteer at a shelter and I see first hand the sadness and the joy that these dogs endure. They all need our support to find them forever homes. I hope this presidency will not "go to the dogs".

Posted by: pam | April 17, 2009 10:26 PM

The Obama's BETRAYED the public! They promised on numerous occasions and at press conferences that they would adopt a shelter dog because they knew whatever they did in the White House would be symbolic. Well, bring it on dog breeders! Bring it on giving living creatures to children on Easter! Bring it on giving a donation to a shelter but indirectly buying a breeder dog--similar to paying for soldiers to fight for you during the Civl War! Liars, the Obamas. A true character test and a true character flaw.

Posted by: Dr. M. Brown | April 17, 2009 10:34 PM

Is there actually such thing as a responsible breeder, or is that a contradiction in terms? Is it possible to produce a puppy without doing harm to another dog? People who support breeders need to look at the bigger picture.

Posted by: Charity | April 18, 2009 12:35 AM

IF the Obamas had decided that a certain breed of dog was more desirable due to its being hypoallergenic, and IF they couldn't find that breed of dog in a shelter, then they could have (and should have!) gone to a breed rescue group that specifically rescues that breed of dog from shelters.

I volunteered at an animal shelter for four years and often counseled people who couldn't find their "desired" breed in the shelter environment to contact breed rescue. My husband and I have adopted two border collies from Border Collie rescue and they have been terrific dogs! Breed Rescue groups save dogs from shelters and from homes where the dog is not being cared for adequately. Both of our border collies were brought into breed rescue from horrific conditions.

That being said, we have also adopted "mixed breed" dogs from shelters and I wholeheartedly recommend them. They are the best dogs in terms of temperment and physical health.

To sum up: Adopting from a breed rescue group is a great option for people who have their hearts set on a specific breed of dog but don't want to add to the puppy mill problem.

Posted by: Danielle Jesensky | April 18, 2009 03:03 AM

Such a shame, such a nice bloke lets his appealing kids and wife talk him out of doing something big.

Posted by: Carol | April 18, 2009 06:07 AM

I can understand people being disappointed, but you also have to consider that they WERE looking at shelter dogs before Bo came along. Bo was just a gift from Sen. Kennedy and I don't think there's anything wrong with accepting a gift. If someone offered me a puppy, I would definitely not turn it down. The puppy did not come from a puppy mill, pet shop, or irresponsible owner, so I see no need to fret. Bo was a puppy that needed a home too, and now he has one. It would have been nice for the Obamas to have chosen a shelter dog, but they also gave another dog a home.

Posted by: Brittany | April 18, 2009 11:12 AM

I am very disappointed. He should have rescued a shelter dog.

Posted by: lisa salazar | April 18, 2009 12:04 PM

I have really bad dog allergies too, yet I have 3 dogs which all came from a shelter.. It's called CLARITIN. It's one thing to change your mind about a dog shelter but to go the complete opposite way and go to a breeder .. That's just bad. Breeders are evil, you would think the president would know that.

Posted by: Tracy | April 18, 2009 12:14 PM

Shame, shame, shame.

Posted by: Gina | April 18, 2009 04:09 PM

Hopefully, the first family will see that Bo needs a playmate and adopt one from a shelter!

Posted by: Rita Cross | April 18, 2009 04:21 PM

Pres Obama did not say he was definitely getting a shelter dog. He said it would be a consideration.
I am a firm believer of adopting shelter dogs, but I still believe that people should be able to get the kind of dog they want and from wherever, except pet stores, where we know they come from puppy farms.
We should be grateful the Obamas spent much time considering this and didn't run out and get just any dog, as many people do and then wind up turning it back or sending it to a shelter.
I think these people that sent these letters criticizing the First Family should put their energies into solving the homeless problem by sending money and spending time helping to close these puppy mills.
Be constructive, not destructive. The Obamas do not get a break from our citizens on most issues.
Getting tired of this.

Posted by: Peggy Ellison | April 18, 2009 06:12 PM

I hope the Obamas will publicly stress the importance of spaying and neutering...and I hope they'll end up adopting a second dog from the shelter!

Posted by: Giorgia | April 18, 2009 09:51 PM

Very, very disappointed with President Obama! I really thought that he was a friend to shelter/homeless pets.

Posted by: Michelle | April 18, 2009 10:50 PM

Isn't he a beuatiful dog - pound puppy or from a breeder - it's wonderful to own a pet

Posted by: lg | April 19, 2009 02:17 PM

why is this being a big deal??

It's the past already, oh well.

yeah, I agree that people should adopt, but he didn't.

Posted by: Erika | April 19, 2009 07:50 PM

The Portuguese Water Dog is perfect for the Obama family and it's rude to refuse a gift.
That's all. 'Nough said. Get on. Go Bo!

Posted by: Chuck Gary | April 20, 2009 04:02 AM

Kathy are you slow or can you just not read? It said this dog WASNT rescued. The pres. just wants some good publicity. But no one likes him already. It even said on tv this dog was a pure breed water dog. If he really wants to look good he should choose a dog thats injured or really needing a home. More than 100 animals a day are put down just cause they are pure bred or they lack a physical feature appealing to the buyers. Obama is a sad excuse for a man. Grow some balls.

Posted by: Jenna Williams | April 20, 2009 09:30 AM

I'm very disappointed also not only in the Obamas but also Ted Kennedy for supporting breeders.

I think Obama should still adopt a puppy from a shelter to make good on his word and the message that it will send.

Posted by: Frieda | April 20, 2009 06:55 PM

I am torn.

I think the best thing the president can do now is adopt a shelter dog to be a companion for both his family and his other dog.

About 2 1/2 years ago, I went to look for a dog and wanted to adopt one from a shelter that was older and less cute than the others. I wanted to take one home that no one else would probably ever take. One that would probably end up dying in the shelter if I didn't take them. So I went looking, and I wanted to take every one of them. It made me incredibly sad. I realized that as much as I wanted to help all of them, or even just one of them...I couldn't handle becoming attached to one and then losing it sooner than I would if I got a puppy. So I ended up getting a little mutt, half chihuahua and some sort of terrier. But I have often thought of adopting one more in need of a home now, to keep him company.

Posted by: Mona | April 20, 2009 06:55 PM

I'm portuguese, resident in Portugal, and I'm very happy that President took for his life a Portuguese Race of dogs,a fisherman portuguese dog, more precisely. It's not a 'fashion' dog, it's a real dog, who needs space, freedom and liberty. I'm sure that President Obama will help many centres of shelter dogs and cats, so he will have the time and opportunity to do that.

Posted by: Madalena Crespo | April 21, 2009 11:29 AM

Although he went back on his word, ALL animals deserve a chance to be in a home. Yes, adopting an animal from a shelter is an excellent thing to do, I recently adopted a 2 year old persian the same day she was scheduled to be euthanized. However, I have also bought my little dog from a breeder. Animals are animals and they deserve a home no matter what the cost. Some breeders, like shelters will put down dogs because of the sheer volume, or the fact that they will not "sell". I am just happy that Obama's dog is in a family who will love him and take care of him. This is what we should be concentrating on. Let's give ALL animals, from shelters or breeders a chance to be in a loving forever home.

Posted by: Lynda | April 21, 2009 12:09 PM

I'm disappointed that Obama didn't get a shelter dog, but Tammatha is right- it would have been akward for him to refuse Kennedy's gift. I also think it's bad for people to make the children's pet into a political thing- nobody has mentioned the fact that the girls may have wanted that dog, and what was Obama going to say-"sorry, girls, I can't go back on my campaign promise."?

Posted by: Huntress | April 22, 2009 11:47 AM

Why is it that we keep making the mistake of saying that we need more laws to control puppy mills? Why don't our authorities concentrate on enforcing the laws that are already in place? The system is already bogged down enough with laws that are not enforced, people need to investigate before asking for more laws!! I understand that the shelters are overcrowded by unwanted animals. The responsible breeders do their homework before placing a puppy to make as sure as we can that the puppy is being placed in a forever home. We also have contracts that state if the puppy is not wanted for any reason that we will take them back and should be given that opportunity before the puppy is placed anywhere else. RESPONSIBLE is the KEY word.

Posted by: Judy Schultz | April 22, 2009 12:47 PM

Judy Schultz, why do you breed dogs when so many are dying in shelters? RESPONSIBILITY you say?

Posted by: Marla | April 23, 2009 04:04 PM

This dog was clearly not a rescue and any attempt to pass it off as such is simply a lie. Very, very disappointed that the first family missed a great opportunity to show the benefits and rewards of adopting a true rescued animal.

Posted by: Barbara P | April 23, 2009 05:14 PM

Isn't it time to accept that the Obama's dog is a keeper; nothing anyone can say will change that. Let's focus on important issues. Be happy that Bo has a safe, caring, and happy existence with his new family.

Posted by: Judy | May 2, 2009 04:06 PM

ITS A DOG PEOPLE!!! WHY ARE WE PUTTING SO MUCH IMPORTANCE ON IT! YES HE DID IN FACT SAY HE WAS GOING TO ADOPT A SHELTER DOG BUT BO WAS A GIFT FROM TED KENNEDY, HOW WOULD THAT HAVE LOOKED TO REFUSE A GIFT FROM SOMEONE THAT SUPPORTED YOUR SUCCESSFULL WHITE HOUSE CAMPAIGN? JEEZ PEOPLE, CUT THE GUY A BIT OF SLACK

Posted by: juliebear | June 20, 2009 09:53 AM

If you think this issue is not important, Go visit a shelter and watch healthy, loving, adoptable dogs being killed because some callous owner had enough of them...WHY PROMISE TO ADOPT FROM A SHELTER IF THEY HAD NO INTENTION TO DO SO? THE MAN WENT BACK ON HIS WORD ON A VITAL ANIMAL WELFARE ISSUE. HOW CAN THAT BE JUSTIFIED?? We're not talking about a TV presenter or a model here, this is THE US PRESIDENT!!
IT'S ALWAYS DISAPPOINTING WHEN A PROMINENT FIGURE GIVES A BAD EXAMPLE TO THE MASSES, AND LIES INTO THE BARGAIN - JUST TO GET ANIMAL LOVERS' VOTES. It's not 'A' DOG, IT'S 15 MILLIONS OF THEM, KILLED EVERY YEAR IN US DOG POUNDS--AFTER SUFFERING THE MISERY AND PAIN OF ABANDON--! I'M DEEPLY HURT BY THIS BACK-STABBING ACT TOWARDS THE MILLIONS OF HOMELESS ANIMALS AND THE MILLIONS WHO CARE FOR THEM AND STRIVE TO KEEP THEM ALIVE, especially coming from a man I actually believed in. With this kind of message, maybe next year a million of them will be Portuguese Water Dogs. Shouldn't they be cut some slack from irresponsible adoptions? THE ONLY WAY THE OBAMAS CAN REGAIN CREDIBILITY ON ANIMAL WELFARE IS ADOPTING A SHELTER FRIEND FOR BO, failing that, as far as I'm concerned they are liars. Full stop. ONE BROKEN PROMISE, MAYBE MORE TO FOLLOW.

Posted by: Barbara Perrin | June 29, 2009 04:05 PM

WHY DID YOU LIE. YOU ARE JUST PROVING TO EVERYONE THAT YOU ARE JUST A BIG FAT LIAR. YOU DONT CARE ABOUT YOUR COUNTRY. YOU ARE JUST PUTTING UP A FRONT. BECAUSE YOU JUST WONT TO BE IN HISTORY FOR BEING THE FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT. YOU LIED ABOUT GETTING A DOG OUT OF THE ANIMAL SHELTER. YOU HAVE MONEY TO DO IT BUT INSTEAD YOU ARE JUST BEING REALLY SELFISH AND NOT THINKING ABOUT ANYONE ELSE BUT YOUR SELF. SO JUST STOPO PUTTING UP A FRONT.

Posted by: JEREMY BLEVINS | July 7, 2009 09:54 AM