The Obamas' pet dog Bo has sadly passed away, after being a 'loyal companion' to the former US president and his family for more than a decade.
The black and white Portuguese water dog had been a gift from Barack and Michelle to their daughters as they settled into their new home at the White House.
Breaking the news on social media, Michelle said Bo had died after 'a battle with cancer' and that while they would miss him 'dearly', they were thankful that he'd been able to live 'such a joyful life full of snuggles, games of fetch, and evenings lying on the couch'.
Barack also paid tribute to his late pet with a heartfelt statement that read: "Today our family lost a true friend and loyal companion.
Advert
"For more than a decade, Bo was a constant, gentle presence in our lives-happy to see us on our good days, our bad days, and everyday in between.
"He tolerated all the fuss that came with being in the White House, had a big bark but no bite, loved to jump in the pool in the summer, was unflappable with children, lived for scraps around the dinner table, and had great hair.
"He was exactly what we needed and more than we ever expected. We will miss him dearly."
Michelle recalled how she and Barack had promised their daughters, Malia and Sacha, they would get them a puppy while on the campaign trail in 2008, vowing to add to the family with a four-legged friend after the election.
Advert
"At the time, Bo was supposed to be a companion for the girls," Michelle said.
"We had no idea how much he would mean to all of us.
"For more than a decade, Bo was a constant, comforting presence in our lives. He was there when the girls came home from school, greeting them with a wag.
"He was there when Barack and I needed a break, sauntering into one of our offices like he owned the place, a ball clamped firmly in his teeth.
"He was there when we flew on Air Force One, when tens of thousands flocked to the South Lawn for the Easter Egg Roll, and when the Pope came to visit.
Advert
"And when our lives slowed down, he was there, too-helping us see the girls off to college and adjust to life as empty nesters."
The family also have a female Portuguese water dog called Sunny, who joined them in 2013.
Michelle said Bo had never been happier than during the pandemic, when 'all his people were under one roof again'.
"I will always be grateful that Bo and the girls got to spend so much time together at the end," she said.
Advert
Michelle added: "Please hug the furry members of your family a little closer tonight-and give them a belly rub from us."
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: News, US News, Barack Obama, Animals, Dogs