Your Vote Can Make A Difference
He may have been pandering to his children but if there’s one thing Senator Barack Obama will learn, there’s no going back on commitments when kids and puppies are involved.
I’m sure many of you already know, the junior senator from Illinois promised his kids they would be able to get a dog if he is voted into the White House in November of this year.
This has dog lovers around the globe intently watching the race for the next President of the United States just to see what type of dog the kids are going to get. I’ll put dollars to donuts that he’s still going to be getting the kids a fuzzy little ball of fun even if he loses.
I think this is one of those great teaching moments that come along every once in a great while. What if the Obamas were to go to a local shelter to pick out their dog or opt for a dog rescue organization to select their dog of choice? What a great message that would send.
That’s why when I found out what the Best Friends Animal Society was doing to promote this very thing I got so excited. They’ve set up a website www.ObamaFamilyDog.com to petition the Senator to go down the rescue path rather than the purchasing one. The website has great information on why adoption is such a great choice and you’ll be amazed at the wonderful things this organization is doing to create “a better world through kindness to animals”.
The ObamaFamilyDog.com site was created as a response to The American Kennel Club which quickly identified a list of five possible “pure” breeds that the Obamas could buy from a pet store or breeder.
Best Friends’ has a different thought…
“With millions of homeless pets still being killed in shelters every year, they’re proposing that the Obamas NOT buy a dog – instead, that they adopt their next dog from a shelter or rescue group.”
Anyone who’s looked into how pet stores get their dogs is appalled when they find out about the realities of puppy mills and backyard breeders. This is not directed at ethical breeders, but at those who breed their dogs without thought to the welfare of the animal, the offspring and the future owners. It truly disgusts me.
Ted has previously written about the little known world of puppy mills and backyard breeders that were exposed by Oprah on her show. In that piece he makes a great point.
“..if people simply knew about puppy mills and backyard breeders, we could kill all their business.”
He’s right. If someone were to watch the Oprah show on puppy mills, I guarantee they will be adopting their next best friend.
As a Dogster member, chances are you more aware of this problem than the average person, or dog owner. I urge to take this opportunity to influence the education of the world on dog rescues by helping the Obamas make the right choice. Go sign the petition now.
I have been a huge supporter for a long time. I love the idea that you want to get a dog for your childre, I think all children should have the opportunity at pet ownership. It teaches a huge amount of responsibility. I hope you consider adopting a pet as well, as this too is a huge lesson to be taught to your children about compassion and the issues so many innocent creatures face. Unreputable breeders, puppy mills, abadnonment and abuse. I know this is not something on your mind at the moment, you have more important items on your agenda at the moment, but come November, please consider adoption. Thank you for your time and commitment in so many other matters I find important as well. Good luck! I am rooting for you!
I agree that everyone should adopt a dog, but as much as I am an staunch advocate for adoption, even the Obamas would have a difficult time finding an adoptable pet. Their girls have allergies, and while not out of the question to find an eligible dog, it certainly makes it hard.
Whatever dog they choose, I am happy they are joining the wonderful world of dog ownership!
Hmm….Well, I wasn’t and adoptee! I see that adoption has become more popular, but if the Obamas want a purebred puppy I would say go to a breeder to ensure health, quality, and temperament…I know it makes Mummy angry when she sees adoption being pushed wayyy too hard.
Either way, the Obamas HAVE to have a dog!
Let me start off by saying I support Obama 100% BUT If the Obama’s want a dog they SHOULD adopt. If they want a PUREBRED which him being a product of a mixed race couple and me being the mother of a multi racial child I find that to be SO FUNNY! My neighbors children had a allergies to animals as well… so they got them Peacocks
He is running for PRESIDENT he should set an example and ADOPT A DOG!!!
Just an issue of clarification…the AKC website says nothing about BUYING a dog. It just suggests certain breeds that might fit the Obama’s lifestyle, particularly with the allergy issues. There are plenty of rescue groups from which they could adopt any one of those purebred dogs. Thus, I would argue that there is nothing in the AKC’s statement that advocates purchasing over adoption. Rather, they are emphasizing the importance of doing research and thinking carefully before getting a dog on an impulse…which is why so many beautiful pups end up in shelters in the first place.
Taking a poll?? Dogs are NOT a political tool! If a family trulely wants a dog they should get the dog that best fits the family life style be it a rescue or a purebread. Does Senater McCain have a dog??
I would love to see him adopt a pit bull or another breed that is “dangerous”. That would be great to see. Obama says he is all for change then adopt a pit bull and give them a new look in life
I’m a happy owner of a dangerous breed (dobermans).
I really would like to see the Obama family adopt a shelter or rescue dog. If they require a specific type of dog because of the daughters’ allergies (or for any other reason), then I’d recommend going to a breed rescue. Two of my three German Shepherds came from a GSD rescue group (one dog was a Katrina orphan, the other was pulled from a high-kill shelter before her time ran out). Breed rescue groups also tend to spend a lot of time evaluating, fostering and nurturing the dogs they place, so there tends to be a lot of information available about any given dog they have.
I fully supprt Obama as President and I love the idea of his family adopting a rescue dog! This could encourage others to do the same, and greatly reduce the number of homeless dogs who need a family to love them.
Mr. Obama I fully encourage you to adopt a new friend for your children, and also the best of luck as our new leader.
Do you really think the Obamas will have time to care and nurture a dog? Dog stewardship should not be used as a political ploy or some sort of media issue. It’s a serious, lifetime commitment and I don’t see the first couple (presumably) dedicating themselves to caring for the animal. His days and nights, as well as, hers will be filled with whatever presidents and their wives do, unless they have a live-in nanny for the girls and the dog. If that’s the case, they should march down to Chicago’s Anti-Cruelty Society and get themselves a good match.
i think its a great idea for the obama family to adopt a dog. the girls, im sure, would love to have someone to keep them entertained when their parents are busy with the country’s affairs when, hopefully, barack obama is elected president.
A quick clarification here: I believe Barack has said that his daughters will be getting a dog once the election is over no matter who the winner is.
All of the Presidents for the last 20 years have had dogs (and many before them) that they’ve managed to take care of. I’ve no doubt that there’s some staffer who walked Millie, Buddy, and Barney, and one will walk the Obama’s dog when they are in the white house.
Even if their children have allergies, there are breed rescues for almost any dog breed. Schnauzers, poodles, shih tzus are all good for people with allergies. They have rescue groups and they are found in shelters (believe it or not). If they want to adopt they probably can. If they don’t one would hope that they would go to a reputable breeder, but it would be nice if one President or candidate would make the effort to make a statement and adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue when so many dogs of so many kinds are available and so many of them die needlessly in a country that purports to be humane.
The Obama family should really rescue a dog. It’s better to rescue a loving new family member than to get a puppy from overpriced pet stores.
man i hope you win prez it will be the best thing they would need 2 build in a nursing home if that old dinasaur mccain get in well saving a dog will get you morevotes youve got mine
30 Barks that the Obahama’s should rescue a dog. No family is complete with the companionship of a four legged critter. Sometimes animals are better than people.
Diane Townson
I think the Obama family should adopt a homeless dog. Barrack Obama himself may not be able to look after the dog. But you have to remember that he has 2 daughters.
I think this would be a great addition to your family!!! Not to mention it would be like the story of little orphan Annie! You’ve got my vote in 2008!
Cristina Rogers
Lacey, Wa.
Voting is fr Obama! Adopt, and i will vote!
ALL PEOP:LE NEED DOGS
Adopt a wonderful friend…..
I love Obama!! He needs to adopt a dog. With all that big space in the white house and tons of people around to watch after the dog, why not get one?? In fact, if it is Barack Obama’s dog, he could probably take it anywhere with him. He could take it on air force one when he flys and people would be happy to take care of it.
Hey, adopting a dog is the only thing that makes a president a ‘real’ person in my eyes. But to really push the ticket Obama should ADOPT a HOMELESS DOG through a reputable shelter! Now don’t be scared, there is a rescue for EVERY BREED OF DOG in the USA. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in 25 years of animal service it’s there’s a dog for EVERY family if they just make an effort.
I’m a big believe on giving stray animals a home or adopting. Why go spend hundreds of dollars on a puppy when you can go adopt a dog that needs a home? Give a dog who has no home a good home and a loving family:)
If Obama adopts a dog, and realizes he loves dog, he can adopt a few more and give some lucky dogs a good home!
~VAL~
I think they should most definatly consider adopting a dog. They would be saving a dogs life and getting a fantastic pet. They seem like a great family with nice loving children and I think they would make a fine family for some lucky dog to be able to join.
I FIND THIS POLITICAL PLUG OFFENSIVE~ How much did Obama pay for this?
Why is there nothing posting for McCain -?
Is Dogster.com playing into the Cult of Obama?
Suddenly this man wants a Dog? GEE .. this is enough to make me campaign for McCain AND donate to his campaign!
i dislike OBama and his his whole staff. he is a disgrace to our country
WOW I am surprised to see this turning so ugly. Whoever suggested this was only trying to create some buzz about Obama, adopting a dog. The McCains have one so maybe that was why no one mentioned him.
Sad to see so much ugly behavior about a man that has done so much for his race and this country
Is this a joke???? Pushing Obama to get a dog?
Since when do we push anyone to get a dog?
That is exactly the person who shouldn’t have a dog, one who isn’t passionate about bringing in a new member of the family.
The Clinton’s had a dog that was used for photo ops then after the White House went to live in one of their homes with a care taker! A dog lover would never do that.
Bush has Barney as one of his dogs and he can’t stand Bush. If you have ever seen them on Tv the dog runs away. Bush calls and Barney runs and Bush laughs.
You don’t have to own an animal to be a good president.
Let’s remember it is about the issues. We are only putting Obama’s name out there…more free press for a presidential runner.
they should get a dog
This is horrifying. If that family was willing to take care of a pet as a life-long family member, they would ALREADY own one, or more. This junk about Obama is the reason I am removing myself from the Dogster website.
Now, to figure out how to get that Dogster sticker off my car…
This is ridiculous. If they were dog people, they would have a dog already. It’s an enormous commitment and one that should not be taken lightly, or under pressure. Getting a dog to look politically “appropriate” is appalling. If the girls want a pet, start with one of those fake computer pets, so they can prove their ability and dedication to care for a pet.
Let’s all take a deep breath people and let it out slowly and calmly. The anti-Obama people turned this into a political discussion which it isn’t. I thought we were all animal lovers here What great PR for what we all believe in for a Presidential candidate to promote adopting from rescues and shelters. If McCain promised his children a dog it would be the same thing. Get over it. And to clarify, the Obamas promised their daughters a dog after the ELECTION, not after winning the White House. Win or lose, the girls get their dog and that’s all that really matters.
Getting a dog for Obama will not help him at all!!!!
He is a looser.
Definitely adopt a dog! They are the best!!! And Mr. future Presdidnt, if you want a “purebred”…..you can still get one through a rescue group. It may not have the papers, but who cares???
When you get a dog through rescue, you eventually wonder…who rescued who? When you’re stressed, tired, and just plain want a friend, your dog will be there.
I am sick of Obama period. If he has not gotten a dog by now becoming President of the US is no time to get one. A dog and especially a shelter dog needs tender loving care and Obama’s children are still too young to be that responsible. Who then will do most of the “caring” ? Probably White House Staff …I am sure they would treat it with care but the dog needs a family that loves it and I think the Obama’s would be able to give it that care.
These people who are supporting Obama need to really think about him. His messianic rock star cult following don’t have a clue about him and what he stands for. He’s nothing more than an empty suit who would crash and burn if he ever gets outside of his handler’s control.
A poll revealed that more pet stewards favored McCain than Obamarama. McCain already has Sam the English springer spaniel, Coco the mutt, turtles Cuff and Link, Oreo the black and white cat, a ferret, three parakeets and a bunch of saltwater fish. THIS should be talked about –even a ferret–that’s completely awesome. My ferret, dog and saltwater fish will be voting for Sen. McCain.
There are so many dogs in rescue because people impulsively get dogs before they learn what care they need. Obama or anyone else, should learn more about dogs before they get one, and be willing to care for that dog for its lifetime. If more people did their homework before getting a dog, there would not be so many dogs in rescue.
If the Obamas get a dog, research on the breed/type of dog to get only makes sense. That is true for anyone considering adding to their family. Not sure why this should be a political debate, for heaven’s sake. There are plenty of other forums for that sort of thing.
I agree that there is a lot of ugliness in these postings. Can’t people just chill?? This is supposed to be fun, not a character assassination forum! This guy has done a lot for this country, I agree, and this partisan hate mail turns me off. Obama is going to get a dog if he wins or loses. The fact that he doesn’t already have a dog doesn’t mean he would not love the dog he eventually gets! He has been very busy for years, and has two homes. in DC and in Chicago. Dogster and I will not miss you, Jennifer.