The Best Dog for the Job

Illustration of an English Springer Spaniel in front of a white background with text on top and bottom.

Mildred "Millie" Kerr Bush was the family dog of President George H.W. Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush. Named after the families long-time friend, Mildred Kerr. Millie, an English Springer Spaniel, was born on January 12 1985 and lived to be twelve years old. Upon her death, a dog park in Houston, Texas was named in her honor. During her life, Millie was famously mentioned in a political speech by President George H.W. Bush where he used the dog to attack his opponents, Bill Clinton and Al Gore. The President stated:

“My dog Millie knows more about foreign affairs than these two bozos.”​

In addition, Millie also came into the spotlight through her own books. The first is titled Good Dog, Millie: A Day in the Life of America's Most Famous Canine, and another where she is credited as the author, titled Millie's Book: As Dictated to Barbara Bush, which focuses on her life in the White House. Millie also made appearances in television programs such as The Simpsons and Murphy Brown.