Maybe there is something missing from the White House that is not as simple as a pet.  Maybe it’s the lessons not learned by a life without having an animal friend and companion.

Dear Neighbor, 

It has been over one hundred years since the White House was petless.  In fact, there have been only two presidents besides Donald Trump who did not share their home and their lives with a pet; James Polk and  Andrew Johnson, (Johnson however took care of mice that he found in his bedroom} Most have been dogs, but cats, have been common cohabitators along with birds, a racoon, horses, snakes, a badger, a donkey and guinea  pigs. Presidents have often been gifted animals from foreign dignitaries. Van Burren was given two tiger cubs. Jefferson got 2 grizzly bear cubs John Addams is said to have had an alligator living in the East room. Why have animals been seen as appropriate gifts to powerful men? And why do most White House inhabitants share their home with pets?

I think it reveals a value that is recognized in interspecies connections. Any pet owner knows the feeling of joy that comes with being greeted at the door or in the pasture with a cold nose and a welcoming touch. Or the pleasure that comes from seeing the new member of the family finally feeling at home. Realizing that whatever is going on in your life, you will be accepted without judgement. 

Living with a pet is a learning experience. You learn forgiveness for that chewed up slipper or the stolen pizza. You learn patience while waiting for the dog to decide where to relieve himself or needing to sniff every footprint on your walk. You learn to share your couch, your bed, your time, your food and your friends. You learn empathy and to read body language; what does that twitching tail mean? Why the droopy tail? Does something hurt? You learn responsibility. You know that your actions or inactions have consequences. It is your job to protect and nurture another being.

Maybe there is something missing from the White House that is not as simple as a pet.  Maybe it’s the lessons not learned by a life without having an animal friend and companion. Sigh. It’s sad for anyone who has never had that connection. Turns out it’s sad for all of us.

“Dear Neighbor” authors are united in a belief that civility and passion can coexist. We believe curiosity and conversation make us a better community.