Mary Allen
Introduction: Who is Michael D Higgins?
Michael D Higgins is the current president of Ireland, serving his second term since 2018. Born on April 18, 1941, in County Clare, Ireland, Higgins has had a long and distinguished career in politics and academia. He is a member of the Labour Party and has held various positions in the Irish government, including Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, and Minister for the Islands. Higgins is also an accomplished academic, having taught at various universities in Ireland and abroad and published several books on topics ranging from Irish poetry to human rights.
The Importance of Canine Companions
Dogs have been known to be man’s best friend for centuries. They are loyal, loving, and provide companionship to their owners. For Michael D Higgins, his dogs have been an important part of his life, both personally and politically. His love for his canine companions has been well-documented, with the president often seen walking his dogs around the grounds of Áras an Uachtaráin, the official residence of the President of Ireland. The presence of dogs in the lives of politicians has also been known to have a positive effect on their public image, with many presidents and prime ministers using their pets to connect with the public and show their more human side.
Names of Michael D Higgins’ Dogs
Over the years, Michael D Higgins has had several dogs, each with a unique personality and name. Here is a list of his furry companions and the stories behind their names.
Bród: The Most Famous of the Bunch
Bród, an Irish Wolfhound, is undoubtedly the most famous of Michael D Higgins’ dogs. The name Bród means “pride” in Irish, and it was chosen to reflect the pride that the president and the people of Ireland have in their country. Bród is often seen standing by the president’s side during official events, and his imposing size and gentle demeanor make him a favorite among visitors to Áras an Uachtaráin.
Misneach: A Name with a Meaning
Misneach, a Bernese Mountain Dog, was named after the Irish word for “courage.” The name was chosen to reflect the strength and resilience of the Irish people, and the importance of standing up for what is right. Misneach is a gentle giant, and his calm and affectionate nature make him a popular companion for the president.
Shadow: The Loyal Labrador
Shadow, a black Labrador Retriever, is the president’s oldest dog, and has been by his side for over a decade. The name Shadow was chosen because of the dog’s loyal and protective nature, and his tendency to follow the president wherever he goes. Shadow is a favorite among the staff at Áras an Uachtaráin, and his playful nature and love of attention make him a popular visitor to the residence.
Síoda: The Soft and Fluffy Bichon Frise
Síoda, a Bichon Frise, was named after the Irish word for “silk.” The name was chosen because of the dog’s soft and fluffy coat, which resembles silk. Síoda is a playful and energetic dog, and her friendly nature makes her a popular companion for the president and his family.
Bracken: The Playful Poodle
Bracken, a Standard Poodle, was named after a type of fern that is native to Ireland. The name was chosen because of the dog’s curly and fluffy coat, which resembles the fronds of a fern. Bracken is a playful and energetic dog, and his love of toys and games makes him a favorite among the president’s grandchildren.
Hazel: A Name Inspired by Nature
Hazel, a Shetland Sheepdog, was named after the tree that is native to Ireland. The name was chosen because of the dog’s hazel-colored coat, which resembles the bark of a hazel tree. Hazel is a gentle and affectionate dog, and her calm and patient nature makes her a popular companion for the president and his family.
Barney: The Beloved Beagle
Barney, a Beagle, was named after a character in the British children’s television show “Blue Peter.” The name was chosen because of the president’s fondness for the show, and his belief that it represented the best of British culture. Barney was a beloved member of the president’s family, and his passing in 2013 was mourned by many.
Willy: The West Highland Terrier
Willy, a West Highland Terrier, was named after the Irish actor Willy Loman, the main character in Arthur Miller’s play “Death of a Salesman.” The name was chosen because of the president’s love of literature and his admiration for the play. Willy is a small and feisty dog, and his playful and adventurous nature makes him a popular companion for the president and his family.
Naming Trends for Presidential Pooches
The tradition of naming presidential pets has a long and storied history in the United States, and it seems that this tradition has also made its way across the pond to Ireland. From Bród to Willy, Michael D Higgins’ dogs have been named after a variety of things, from the Irish language to literature and popular culture. This trend of naming presidential pets after meaningful and symbolic things is a reflection of the importance of these animals in the lives of their owners, and the value that they bring to public life.
Conclusion: A Look into the Life of a President and His Furry Friends
For Michael D Higgins, his dogs are more than just pets, they are an integral part of his life and his presidency. From Bród to Willy, each of his furry companions has a unique personality and name, reflecting the president’s love of language, literature, and culture. The presence of these dogs in the life of the president is a reminder of the importance of companionship, loyalty, and love, and the value that these things bring to public life.