Statement of Wayne Pacelle, President and CEO of The HSUS, on President-Elect Barack Obama’s 'First Pet'

"Last night, as the world listened to President-elect Barack Obama, they were touched by his promise to his daughters of bringing a new puppy with them to the White House. That includes those of us at The Humane Society of the United States. We are grateful to the Obama family for previously announcing they will rescue a dog — a real message of hope and change for all the dogs in shelters waiting for a loving home and those currently suffering in abusive puppy mills.

Obama correctly noted earlier this year that he and his family couldn't devote proper attention to a dog during the tumult of a modern-day presidential campaign, and that the family would acquire a dog after the election. That time has come, and President-elect Obama let us know that the issue is still top of mind for his girls. 

Most presidents in recent times have had pets, and as the next president Barack Obama can set a tremendous example for the rest of Americans by adopting a homeless animal. The Humane Society of the United States looks forward to working with President Obama and watching his children bond with the newest member of their family."

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 10.5 million Americans, or one of every 30. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — On the web at humanesociety.org.