Death of Bo, the dog of Barack Obamas and star of the White House

 Steph Deschamps / May 9, 2021

Bo, Barack Obama's dog, who became a star of the White House, died Saturday of cancer, the former U.S. president announced, referring to his gentle and constant presence in our lives.

Obama promised his two daughters Malia and Sasha that they could have a dog after he won the election in 2008 and Bo joined the family.

Today (Saturday) our family lost a true friend and loyal companion, the former president announced on Twitter, who also posted photos showing him with his dog as well as his children.

Bo, a white and black Portuguese water dog, was a gift from Senator Edward Kennedy to the Obama family.

He regularly appeared at White House events, met with the Pope, visited children in the hospital and flew on Air Force One.

As a family, Bo will be greatly missed, former first lady Michelle Obama said on Instagram.