The Obama White House: Choosing the First Dog

Barack Obama Promises Daughters a Puppy

At President-elect Barack Obama's news conference Friday in Chicago he answered a question that's been "a major issue" in the Obama household, on the Obama-Biden Web site and in the blogosphere.

On Parenting: About That Dog ...

"We have two criteria that have to be reconciled. One is that Malia is allergic, so it has to be hypoallergenic," he said. "On the other hand, our preference would be to get a shelter dog, but a lot of shelter dogs are mutts like me."

Photo Gallery: What Type of Dog Should the Obama Family Get?

In a press release, Humane Society of the United States president Wayne Pacelle said, "We are grateful to the Obama family for 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.

Stephanie Shain, director of Outreach for HSUS, will be online Monday, Nov. 10, at 1 p.m. ET to discuss shelter dogs, the procedure of adoption and the different kinds of dogs that could fit the bill.

A transcript follows.

A transcript follows.

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Stephanie Shain: Greetings!

Stephanie Shain here from the Humane Society of the United States.

We're thrilled the Obamas have said they will adopt and like everyone are looking forward to seeing who their newest family member is.

I'm ready to take questions...lets get started!

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South Orange, N.J.: Just a quick comment... My sister and I both have 'doodles' (I have a goldendoodle and she has a labradoodle). We each adopted our great pooches at shelters. If you are patient, you can find the dog you want! I searched Petfinder for MONTHS and we visited shelters all the time before we found our perfect dog!

Stephanie Shain: Thanks for mentioning Petfinder.org. They are a great site to find the dog of your dreams through.

Also, most shelters now have their own websites so you can search on "animal shelter" and your state and come up with options that way.

Also, with regard to all the "doodles" out there, as you found, they are in shelters and rescue too.

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Washington, D.C.: How do you deal with people with allergies? Do you let them take a dog home for a trial period to see how things go? Also, do you have any advice (or a link to an informative Web site) for reasonable measures to take to minimize dog allergy issues? Thanks

Stephanie Shain: I'm so glad you asked!

It's important to spend time with an individual animal to try and gauge the reactivity you may have to that specific animal. Doesn't necessarily have to be a "take home" for a week though.

You can find out tips for living with pet allergies here: www.petsforlife.org.

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Duluth, Minn.: I know certain breeds are said to be hypoallergenic but is there a test to determine if a dog with unknown pedigree will be?

Stephanie Shain: Great question. Contrary to popular belief, there are no "non-allergenic" breeds of dogs or cats; even hairless breeds may be highly allergenic.

All cats and dogs are allergenic (allergy-causing) to people who are allergic to animals. Cats tend to be more allergenic than dogs for allergic people, although some people are more sensitive to dogs than cats.

Dogs with soft, constantly-growing hair-the Poodle or the Bichon Frise, for example-may be less irritating to some individuals, although this may be because they are bathed and groomed more frequently. One dog or cat of a particular breed may be more irritating to an individual allergy sufferer than another animal of that same breed.

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Frederick, Md.: How much progress is being made on shutting down puppy mills in the U.S.? How many do you think are still in operation and what are local governments doing to stop them?

Stephanie Shain: Puppy mills continue to be a massive problem in the U.S.

We estimate about 10,000 are in operation across the country...in every state.

You can find out more about how to stop them and avoid supporting them at humanesociety.org/puppymills.

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Indianapolis, Ind.: If the president-elect does not want to take a chance on a mutt, then what about breed rescue? Seems about every breed has an organization. Poodles, for example, have (among, I am sure, others) Southern Paws at Southern Paws.

Stephanie Shain: Breed rescue is indeed a fantastic option for people who have their heart set on a specific breed of dog. I've yet to hear of a breed of dog, or mix of breeds, who doesn't have a breed rescue group devoted to them.

It's important to note as well that nationwide, one out of every four dogs in animal shelters is a purebred!

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Washington, D.C.: Thanks for all the work you do. Could you give us a general idea of the main reasons why dogs end up in a shelter and what you do to guard against having the problems recur?

Stephanie Shain: Most dogs are in shelters and rescue for what we call "people reasons", like a move, the birth of a baby, or just being unprepared for the huge responsibility in time and money that a pet takes.

Most animals in shelters were NOT abused...most were loved family pets who found themselves in need of a new home. because of this, the majority of shelter animals are happy and healthy and just need someone to give them a second chance.

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washingtonpost.com: Pets for Life

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Northern Virginia: Are there special temperament requirements for the White House dog, and any way to know if a puppy will measure up to them? This is a dog that will see lots of photographers, crowds, and nosy fans, at least from time to time, and may also be wandering around priceless carpets and artifacts. Plus, there will be constant travel and family members coming and going, not always there. Does that suggestion a particular type of dog to you?

Stephanie Shain: One breed doesn't stand out to me as the "perfect" kind of dog here.

My suggestion is an adult dog (you really know who you are getting with an adult, it's much harder to predict with a puppy!).

They will want a happy people-friendly dog....a dog who really loves people and basks in lots of activity.

Additionally, and adult dog is much less likely to want to chew on all those carpets you mentioned and other furniture.

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Amissville, Va.: Will their pets have to be spayed?

Stephanie Shain: Most shelters and rescue groups require animals they adopt out be spayed in order to cut down on the huge numbers of homeless animals out there (an estimated 6-8 million dogs and cats enter shelters each year in the U.S., and only about half of them are adopted).

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washingtonpost.com: Stop Puppy Mills

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Cheryl Wapak, Ohio: Why is it important for presidents to have a dog in the White House?

Stephanie Shain: Same reason all of us "regular" people want a dog in our homes...they are great companions. And pets are good for us. Studies show time and again that having animals around actually makes us healthier and happier.

Whether they are your jogging partner or TV-watching buddy, dogs love us despite our faults and can really take the edge off of a hard day.

I think having a furry family member around would be especially helpful when you have a job like running the U.S. ... talk about needing a stress reliever!

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Fairfax, Va.: My sister wants to surprise her kids with a dog for Christmas, but also must have a breed that minimizes allergies. What is the likelihood of finding a hypoallergenic breed at Christmastime?

I have been advocating a shelter dog, but I'm concerned she won't be able to combine breed plus specific timing. Thoughts or suggestions?

Stephanie Shain: If she starts researching now I'm sure she'll be able to find the right dog or puppy for her family.

Even better, why not wrap up some doggie "must-haves" like a water bowl and a toy. That gives the kids something to open on Christmas and allows the family to go out and pick their dog together.

Or, if she finds a dog now she can always give him or her early...my sister just adopted a puppy from her local shelter and her six year old was surprised last Friday with an early Christmas present.

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Newark, Del.: I think it is great that the Obama's search for a dog is giving needed attention to shelter dogs. However, do you think this might have somewhat of a bad effect, meaning more people getting dogs because it is the "in" thing. Which will lead to more abandoned animals?

Stephanie Shain: I think shelters and rescues do a good job of helping families who want a dog find the right match for them.

I'm not worried about shelter dogs being placed to readily with people who aren't ready for the time and money it takes to raise a dog.

I do hope that people won't rush out and buy a dog without seriously considering everything it takes.

We have some info on our website, www.humanesociety.org/adopt, to help people decide if they are ready for a pet and what kind and age is best for them.

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washingtonpost.com: Pet Adoption

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Dogless in Virginia: So... I love dogs and my wife has never had one, so she is a little skittish about our first dog. Add to it that she is mildly allergic to some dogs, and we don't have a lot of space, well suffice to say our dog needs are very particular.

I've always had terriers growing up, and was thinking Jack Russell, Wire Haired or something along those lines... but I'm not sure how they are with allergens. Or as first time dogs for that matter?

Do you have any recommendations for our particular needs?

Stephanie Shain: A terrier may not be the right first dog, especially if your wife isn't used to living with a dog.

Despite their usual smallish size, terriers live BIG, and have a big presence in any home! They are all about energy and "doing, doing, doing".

I'd go for a smaller dog (believe it or not, the fact that you have less dog giving off dander and hair really can make a difference!) and pick a dog who is a bit older...say three years old...so he or she is likely to be a bit calmer.

Also, if she usually has a tough time with pet allergies I'd suggest she talk with an allergist in advance to bringing a dog home. There are steps you can take before pup comes home to help avoid allergic reactions.

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Springfield, Va.: Let the girls get any dog they want. Don't pressure them to get the politically correct rescue dog if they want something else! These girls are going to have to share their father and mother with the whole world. Let them have something that is just their decision. Please America, stay out of this one!

Stephanie Shain: To me, it's not about being "politically correct", it's about being able to not only get your dream pet, but also you get to save a life. You get a pet AND do something great.

I imagine the Obama children are like most children....they'll love their dog regardless of what he or she looks like or what breed they are. They just want a buddy!

There aren't many times is our lives where we get to be real heroes, adopting an animal in need however is one of those times. What a gift on top of a gift to give any child...you get a pet AND you get to know that you made a real difference. That's pretty amazing whether your dad is president or not!

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Fredericksburg, Va.: Are there hypoallergenic mixed breeds? If someone is allergic, will weekly bathing and the grooming techniques "furminating" or "shed-less grooming" (Petsmart) keep allergens at bay?

Stephanie Shain: Take it from someone who has dog and cat allergies and who lives with both species...there are MANY things you can do to help with allergies.

While some people have very strong allergic reactions that need to be handled carefully, many of us have allergies that mean we have do take some steps to keep our beloved pets while managing allergies.

Getting tested is SO important...pets get tagged as the allergen when in fact they may not be. If someone is allergic to animals, they may also be allergic to other things (trees, dust, etc.) and it's important to deal with ALL things that cause an allergic reaction. So cleaning, dusting, washing pet beds, not allowing the dog to sleep IN your bed, etc. More info at http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/allergies_to_pets/.

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Hartford, Conn.: The Obama's seem set on getting a puppy, not an adult....do shelters often have puppies?

Stephanie Shain: It varies day to day in shelters. With animals coming in every day (my friends at the Washington Humane Society told me they get an average of 33 animals in every day of the year!) the pets available for adoption is constantly changing.

Thankfully, because most shelters now have websites, you can take a look at who is where at your home computer.

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washingtonpost.com: Allergies to Pets

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Fairfax County, Va.: You said that the purebreds can be just as irritating to people with allergies because show dogs(?) are more frequently bathed and groomed. How does bathing and grooming affect allergies? Does it vary from dog to dog and person to person?

Stephanie Shain: let me clarify...some dogs (poodles for example) have very specific grooming needs due to their continuously growing coats whether they are "show dogs" or not. They are more likely to be bathed frequently as part of their regular grooming. This can be HELPFUL in a home with allergies because you are getting rid of the dander (the real source of the problem) through bathing.

They have a different type of fur and don't shed like say, a golden retriever does.

I hope that helps...glad you asked the follow-up question.

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Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.: Are you familiar with a product called AllerPet? It's a liquid that, when applied to dog or cat fur, reduces the allergens. Do products like this have any efficacy?

Stephanie Shain: I've not tried this specific product so can't speak to its efficacy.

I've heard great things about similar products but have also heard not-so-great things. Some people swear by them, others felt they didn't help.

I say give it a try.

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Severn, Maryland: This past summer, we were pet sitting my brother-in-law's 5 year old blond lab. My 4-year-old son and I loved spending time with him.

Unfortunately, he shed a lot of hair and my wife couldn't deal with it. She also grew attached to the dog, but was really worried about our carpets, floors, etc.

Any suggestions to convince her to let me get a dog? What do you think about Boxers and children? I don't think they shed as much

Stephanie Shain: If your wife is concerned about pet hair by all means take heed! Pet hair (even if you really love animals) can be frustrating.

Boxers are happy dogs with loads of energy. Depending on your four-year old, a boxer may be more dog than he can handle!

I'd suggest contacting a boxer rescue group...they will be glad to tell you all the fantastic things about boxers but will also tell you about the challenges of that specific breed.

As you found out with the labrador...short coat doesn't always mean low-shedding...it just means the hair on your couch and your clothes isn't quite as long.

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Washington, D.C.: I recently moved into a condominium and would love to have another dog (my 19-year-old Jack Russell died shortly before my move this year). Are there any breeds you would recommend for a small living space? I know that in general animal shelters prefer homes with larger spaces and fenced yards, nonetheless, I would love to adopt a shelter dog if possible.

Stephanie Shain: I'd focus on energy level more than size.

Even a high-energy, big dog can live happily in an apartment if he has a person who is able to give him lots of exercise daily.

I'm sure the greyhound people will pipe in soon...greyhounds are famous for their easy nature and not-to-be-topped relaxation skills. While most famous for their speed, they are thrilled to spend their time snoozing away on your couch...

I'd think about the amount of time you have to devote to exercising a dog and let that be your guide.

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El Paso, Tex.: How can a family who wants to adopt a shelter dog determine whether a particular dog will be good with children?

Stephanie Shain: Ask lots of questions at the shelter! They will be glad to help steer you to dogs who either have a known history with children or whom they have found to be comfortable around kids while in the care of the shelter.

My own dogs (two of them, both lost their homes due to financial issues in the family) were clearly well-loved by families with young children.

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Huson Valley, N.Y.: It's important to note that Obama said his PREFERENCE would be to adopt a shelter dog, but that desire has to be reconciled with his daughter's allergies. If they can't find a hypoallergenic shelter dog, they will most likely be compelled to get a dog through another means. Let's be clear about this, so we don't jump all over the guy if he can't find a hypoallergenic shelter dog. As the mother of a child with asthma, I would say his daughter's health has to be paramount.

Stephanie Shain: Absolutely, and I'm sure everyone would agree on the health of their daughter. It doesn't help anyone - people or dogs - for ANY family to rush into getting a pet without being sure they are getting the RIGHT pet.

I have no doubt that the rescue groups who focus on less-allergenic dogs are ready to help should the presidential family call. Of course, they are ready to help should any family call who wants to adopt!

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Alexandria, Va.: If people truly want to stop puppy mills, then the natural thing to do would be to support the quality hobby breeders who test for genetic illnesses, know their dogs' temperaments and needs, and can be a source of support to a new pet-owner. A good breeder is a great source of information about his/her breed generally, and most important, about the breeder's own dogs specifically.

Stephanie Shain: Great point.

Of course, at HSUS we are always going to advocate adoption first...we've seen too many dogs lose their lives just because no one came to adopt them. We also know that truly good breeders...those who keep dogs in the home as part of the family and who open their home to a potential buyer's "inspection" are an integral part to stopping puppy mills. More info on that at humanesociety.org/puppy.

I'm still crossing my fingers for a shelter dog though.

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Butte, Mont.: I imagine the White House gets a thorough vacuuming every day. Doesn't that lessen the allergy concerns of the Obamas?

Stephanie Shain: Absolutely!

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Fairfax, Va.: When animals are turned in to a shelter by their owners for whatever reason, do they pine? Do they get sad and does it show? Are they unhappy being given up and are they aware of that? I've always wondered.

Stephanie Shain: Some do and some don't.

Just like people, different dogs handle stress defiantly.

It's not an easy thing for any dog to be sure.

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Washington, D.C.: What do you think about dog ownership for people who work full-time? What if you can't afford a dog walker?

Stephanie Shain: Some dogs are happy to lounge around the house all day while you are at work ... at some dogs aren't.

you can make the day alone more interesting with treats and toys (I'm a huge fan of toys you can stuff with dog food and freeze...gives the pup something to do all day).

You might look into trading mid-day walking duties with friends or others in your neighborhood as an option to a paid walking service.

Most dogs are OK being home all day. While they'd probably love to have a mid-day playmate, having a full-time job doesn't take you off the list as potential dog-home. Then again ... cats are fantastic ... get two and they can keep each other company all day.

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Fairfax County, Va.: What do you think happened with Barney in the recent biting incident? We are Democrats but definitely on Barney's side. We think that Barney was frightened and feeling crowded by the reporters, and that seeing a strange hand come down from above, he felt the need to be dominant. Also, we think that he may have picked up on tension at home right after the election. Dogs are very sensitive to emotion.

What should have been done to avoid this? If you were the reporter, was there a better, safer way to pet a strange dog, perhaps from the side instead of above?

Stephanie Shain: I think you are absolutely right.

If you watch his body language he was feeling stressed...then when that hand came over the top of him (even though just for a friendly pat) it was too much and he reacted.

Tips for "bite-proofing" your dog and how to be safe around dogs (especially for kids) can be found at www.NoDogBites.org.

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washingtonpost.com: Stay Dog Bite Free

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Laurel, Md.: I'm asthmatic/allergic to animals and my boyfriend loves dogs. Is there any sort of program where we can dog-sit for a week to see how my body takes it? My health adds a whole separate layer of responsibility to the big decision of pet owning. My house is a little smaller than Malia's, so with the exception of the bedroom, there would be dog everywhere. Thoughts on reconciling this?

Stephanie Shain: Good for you for being smart about this.

The only challenge with the dog-sitting option is that you might not react with THAT dog, but you could react with a different dog.

If you haven't already been tested to determine specific animal-allergens I'd do that for sure. Then talk to you allergist about options.

Then, when you do decide to add animal to your home be honest with the group you re working with. letting them know you have allergy concerns ahead of time can help make things easier if the individual dog you decide on turns out to be one who gives you very strong reactions

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Stephanie Shain: This has been great....thanks to all of you for your questions.

You can find more help for finding YOUR one-in-a-milloin friend at our website www.humanesociety.org/adopt.

Sincerely,

Stephanie Shain

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washingtonpost.com: Pet Adoption

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