Oil Painting of Barney by President George W. Bush |
"Laura and I are sad to announce that our Scottish Terrier, Barney, has passed away. The little fellow had been suffering from lymphoma and after twelve and a half years of life, his body could not fight off the illness.
Barney and I enjoyed the outdoors. He loved to accompany me when I fished for bass at the ranch. He was a fierce armadillo hunter. At Camp David, his favorite activity was chasing golf balls on the chipping green.
Barney guarded the South Lawn entrance of the White House as if he were a Secret Service agent. He wandered the halls of the West Wing looking for treats from his many friends. He starred in Barney Cam and gave the American people Christmas tours of the White House. Barney greeted Queens, Heads of State, and Prime Ministers. He was always polite and never jumped in their laps.
Barney was by my side during our eight years in the White House. He never discussed politics and was always a faithful friend. Laura and I will miss our pal."
Thank you for serving our President faithfully and bringing a smile to all our faces over your years in the White House, Barney. We enjoyed watching you star in the Barney Cam's and viewing all the pictures of your life in the White House and on the ranch. Growing up I loved researching information on your life while writing my book, "Destination White House, Barney's Incredible Journey". Thank you for the inspiration. I am sorry I never had the chance to meet you in person little fella. You will be missed. Rest in peace, Barney!
~Robin C. Burk