The Obama family mourned the loss of Sunny, their beloved Portuguese water dog who once lived with them in the White House.
Barack Obama announced that Sunny had died and shared a heartfelt Instagram tribute remembering her personality, energy and years with the family.
Barack Obama paid tribute to Sunny after the former White House dog died
Sunny joined the Obama family during Barack’s second presidential term and quickly became an important part of their household.
The former president described Sunny Obama as a “force of nature” who brought plenty of energy wherever she went.
Obama remembered Sunny racing around the White House grounds, jumping over hedges on the South Lawn and chasing squirrels, birds and anything else that moved.
He also explained how Sunny differed from the family’s first dog, Bo.
While treats easily won Bo’s attention, Obama said Sunny preferred people to play with her. Running around, rolling on the floor and rubbing her belly helped earn her affection.
Sunny also shared a close relationship with Sasha and Malia Obama. According to Barack, his daughters loved the dog even when they disturbed her while she slept.
The White House dog also remained protective of Bo. Obama remembered Sunny as more alert than her canine companion and said she often looked out for him.
Sunny had several habits that made her memorable as well. Obama recalled that she preferred dogs to people and made plenty of noise whenever she drank water.
The former president accompanied his tribute with several family photographs. One showed Sunny with the Obamas when they met Pope Francis in 2015.
Bo died in 2021 after battling cancer.
Obama ended his tribute by imagining the two dogs reunited.
“We will miss her terribly, and imagine she’s with her big brother now, making sure he’s okay,” he wrote.
