While many of us think that President-elect Obama might have more important things to be concentrating on right now, I don’t know, like maybe the economy, we’re hearing a lot about his search for a new doggie. Of course, with a child who is allergic to dogs the search is complicated by the need for a hypoallergenic dog, if such a thing exists. No matter; it is certainly a tradition among most occupants of the White House to have pets. Most, of course, were dogs, allergies included.
The promo for the White House Pets DVD gives some great examples of past animal residents of The White House:
- George Washington found time between winning the Revolutionary War and founding the nation to own ten hounds: Taster, Cloe, Tipler, Forester, Captain, Lady Rover, Vulcan, Sweetlips, Madame Moose and Searcher.
- Theodore Roosevelt, who worked hard on his macho image, kept a pit bull, Pete, that nearly provoked a diplomatic incident when it attacked the French Ambassador, tearing the seat out of his trousers. Roosevelt didn’t just stop at dogs though, he also had a bear, a badger, a macaw, a lizard, a hyena, snakes, guinea-pigs, a hen, a rooster with one leg, a rabbit, three ponies and a barn owl.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Scottie, called Fala, became so much part of his avuncular image that it received sacks of fanmail and was buried alongside his master in the memorial to FDR on the National Mall.
- His successor, Gerald Ford, had a more practical use for
Liberty , his golden retriever, whistling for her to come and break up boring meetings.
The 42 minute release is a harmless enough, and at times entertaining, look at a nice little corner of history. Complete with photographs and vintage footage, you’ll see many of these famous pets along with their more famous masters.
Video
White House Pets is presented in its original broadcast full frame format. Because the footage comes from so many sources, the quality varies considerably. You can rest assured that the reproductions are likely as good as you’ll find. Nothing is unwatchable.
Audio
The Dolby Digital 2.0 track delivers exactly what you are looking for and nothing more. The dialog is clear, and that’s all you’re going to get out of this minimalist presentation. It is, after all, a documentary, so narration is what you’re getting.
Special Features
Nothing.
Final Thoughts
I think this release has a hidden value. Because kids like animals, this might be the perfect opportunity to get your young ones to sit through somewhat of a history lesson. While learning about these critters, they are also learning about the former leaders of our country. There’s also a lot to be said for many of the animal selections being a reflection of the times. It’s not a terribly expensive disc. You might be surprised to learn that “
