President Joe Biden and his wife Dr Jill Biden are not the only ones taking up residence in the White House. Their dogs Champ and Major are also moving in.
The canines mark the return of pets to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue after four years without, because former president, Donald Trump, was the first US leader in more than a century to not own a pet while in office. And, well, thank God for that.
Champ, 12, and Major, two, are both German Shepherds with Major being the first-ever rescue dog to live at the famed address.
The Bidens adopted the pup from the Delaware Humane Association in 2018 after receiving criticism for purchasing Champ from a breeder.
In particular, animal rights activists are very excited by the prospect of a rescue dog residing at the White House, with Patrick Carroll, executive director of the Delaware Humane Association, telling the New York Times that Major “shows the real possibilities for what could happen for all the great dogs who need homes out there.”
Major has also given back to his former shelter in an, ahem, major way, helping to raise more than $200,000 for the charity through a virtual “Indoguration” event which was held on January 17 to raise awareness to support the adoption of shelter animals.
The German Shepherds are welcome additions to the new administration and have been steadily gaining fans, especially after a Christmas video of the two was shared by Biden on Twitter.
No matter how you’re celebrating this year, Champ and Major wish you a Merry Christmas. pic.twitter.com/SrZBT4vmpP
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) December 24, 2020
In addition to their busy filming schedule, the two dogs were recently featured in a children’s book titled, Champ and Major: First Dogs.
The Bidens, who are devout animal lovers, also have said they intend to adopt a cat.
Dogs are always welcome in my Senate office – here are a few paw-licy advisors who regularly stop by. #NationalPetDay pic.twitter.com/vVbriFTlg5
— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) April 11, 2019
President Joe Biden officially took over the top job on January 20, 2021, in a historical inauguration which saw Kamala Harris sworn in as America’s first female Vice President, and also the first Black person and the first person of South Asian descent elected to the role.
For her part, Harris does not have a pet of her own, but thankfully is a fan of dogs and has previously tweeted that all are welcome in her office.
If you are looking to adopt a pet of your own, please visit rspca.org.au for more information.