Dog Names Meaning Family

Have you ever thought about the Presidential family and how "normal" they are - or how "normal" they can be?  When one runs for the highest seat in the government of the United States of America, any privacy, and potential normalcy comes to an end.  During the campaign, the media, as well as any opponents, will capture anything the candidate or family member does and make it known to the public, whether one considers it appropriate or not.  Once elected, not only is the President placed under scrutiny but also all of the members of the family become targets of the media or paparazzi.  While it is true that this media attention is not a new phenomenon, it is something to which spouses and children must adjust, and "normal" life changes for them. Sometimes, one of the adjustments made by the family something so fundamental that we take it for granted - like having a family pet.  

Our pop culture spotlight today is Mildred “Millie” Kerr Bush, an English Springer Spaniel who was the pet of President George H.W. and Barbara Bush.   Millie, named after a long-time friend of the Bush’s, is credited as being the “most famous dog in White House history.”  This loyal and loving presidential pet was even mentioned in one of President Bush’s speeches in 1992 when he was running for re-election, with the President commenting that she knew more about foreign policy than either of his two then opponents. 

Millie authored a book titled, “Millie’s Book: As Dictated to Barbara Bush,” released in August 1990 and, in that same year, going clear to the top of the New York Times bestseller nonfiction list.  Being quite the photogenic canine, she was captured in many endearing and selfless moments with Mrs. Bush and the President himself during her tenure as White House pet.  

Millie also honored her beloved human family when, in 1989, she produced a litter of six pups, also pictured with the President and his wife in many warm and tender moments.  Two of her offspring also became Presidential Pets when Mille’s son, Ranger, became the favorite of President George H. W. Bush and her son, Spot Fletcher, became a presidential dog when President George W. Bush got the job and moved into the White House.