Introduction: Name of the president with a Scottish terrier
Throughout history, many presidents of the United States have had pets to keep them company in the White House. Some have had cats, birds, or even horses, but perhaps the most common presidential pet is the dog. And among all the dog breeds that have graced the halls of the White House, one stands out as a favorite among presidents: the Scottish terrier. In particular, one president and his Scottish terrier became so famous that they are still remembered today. But what was the name of the president with a Scottish terrier?
Scottish terrier: the presidential dog breed
The Scottish terrier, also known as the Scottie, is a small breed of dog that originated in Scotland. Scottish terriers are known for their wiry fur, sturdy build, and distinctive beard and eyebrows. They were originally bred for hunting small game like rats and rabbits, but over time they became popular as pets. Scottish terriers have been a favorite breed of several U.S. presidents, with a total of eight different presidents owning at least one Scottie during their time in office.
President Roosevelt’s Scottish terrier
The most famous Scottish terrier in presidential history belonged to Franklin D. Roosevelt, who served as president from 1933 to 1945. Roosevelt’s Scottie was named Fala, and he was given to the president as a gift by a wealthy Scottish woman named Margaret Suckley. Fala quickly became a beloved member of the Roosevelt family and accompanied the president on many of his travels and public appearances.
Fala: the most famous presidential dog
Fala was not just any ordinary pet, however. He became a celebrity in his own right, and was even featured in his own newsreels and radio broadcasts. Fala was so popular that he was often given fan mail and gifts from the American public. One famous story recounts how Fala was accidentally left behind on a visit to the Aleutian Islands, and Roosevelt sent a naval destroyer to retrieve him.
Fala’s role in Roosevelt’s presidency
Fala was more than just a cute companion for the president. He also played a role in Roosevelt’s political career. During the 1944 presidential campaign, Roosevelt was accused by his opponents of leaving Fala behind on a visit to the Aleutian Islands and sending a naval destroyer to retrieve him at the taxpayers’ expense. In response, Roosevelt gave a famous speech in which he defended himself and Fala, saying that "he has not been the same dog since" the accusations were made.
Fala’s popularity among Americans
Fala’s popularity was not limited to the Roosevelt family and his political supporters. He became a symbol of loyalty and patriotism for many Americans, who saw him as a representation of the president and the nation as a whole. Fala even had his own fan club, the Fala Brigade, which had tens of thousands of members and raised money for war bonds during World War II.
Fala’s legacy after Roosevelt’s death
After Roosevelt’s death in 1945, Fala became a part of presidential history. He was buried next to his owner at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park, New York. Fala’s legacy also lived on in popular culture, with numerous books, movies, and TV shows featuring the famous Scottish terrier.
Other Scottish terriers and presidents
Fala was not the only Scottish terrier to grace the White House. Other presidents who had Scotties as pets include George W. Bush, who had two Scotties named Barney and Miss Beazley, and Dwight D. Eisenhower, who had a Scottie named Caacie.
Presidents’ love for dogs
The fact that so many U.S. presidents have owned dogs speaks to the special bond that humans share with these loyal animals. Dogs offer companionship, loyalty, and unconditional love, which are all important qualities for anyone, especially someone in a position of power and responsibility. Presidents often find comfort in their pets during stressful times, and their dogs have been known to ease tensions and provide a sense of normalcy in the White House.
Impact of presidential pets on American culture
Presidential pets have played a surprisingly influential role in American culture. They have been the subject of news stories, TV shows, and even political campaigns. They have also been used to promote various causes, such as pet adoption and animal welfare. Perhaps most importantly, presidential pets have helped to humanize presidents and make them more relatable to the American people.
Conclusion: The Scottish terrier and the presidency
The Scottish terrier has a special place in the history of the U.S. presidency. From Fala’s celebrity status to the many Scotties owned by other presidents, this breed has brought joy and companionship to the White House for generations. But beyond their cute and cuddly appearance, Scottish terriers and other dogs have played an important role in helping presidents to navigate the pressures and challenges of their office.
References: sources for further reading
- "FDR and His Fala" from the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum
- "Presidential Pets" from the White House Historical Association
- "Scottish Terrier" from the American Kennel Club
