[ad_1]
Síoda, one of President Michael D Higgins’ best-known dogs, has died.
Síoda with Bród, one of a pair of Bernese mountain dogs, had been a popular double act in Áras an Uachtarain welcoming dignitaries and members of the public to the president’s residence.
A spokesperson for Mr. Higgins confirmed Saturday that Síoda had died.
The news was detailed for the first time in a newsletter from Áras, which said “unfortunately we must report that Síoda has passed away after a brief illness.”
Dogs are a popular feature of the garden parties President Higgins throws, moving in and out of tables to the delight of guests clamoring for a photo with one of the beloved canines.
They also make regular appearances during official visits and events, such as that of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince William and Kate Middleton, and later Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in 2018.
Regardless of the company, dogs have often been known to approach President Higgins for a belly rub or a scratch behind the ears.
Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Markle in July 2018 in Áras an Uachraráin with President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina and their dogs Bród and Síoda. Photograph: Cyril Byrne / The Irish Times
A photo of President Michael D Higgins with Sioda issued with the news of the dog’s death. Photography: Áras an Uachraráin
Speaking about the couple previously, President Higgins said that “dogs are not simply icebreakers, they are also a great source of wisdom and must be protected from the stresses of the Anthropocene.”
Síoda was a woman, Bród a man. President Higgins has had dogs his entire life. He also had another Bernese Mountain Dog during his early years at Phoenix Park named Shadow.
During the 2018 presidential election, independent candidate Peter Casey sparked controversy by questioning President Higgins’ spending in office, claiming that “his dog’s grooming bills are paid” during a radio debate.
President Higgins’ campaign later clarified that all costs of keeping the dogs are covered by the president’s own funds, and the Donegal businessman’s claims were “false and ridiculous.”
Bród and Síoda also have an unofficial fan page on Twitter, @BrodHiggins, which has more than 18,000 followers on the social media platform.
[ad_2]