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15th Feb 2024

President Higgins shares emotional tribute to beloved dog

Simon Kelly

President Michael D Higgins dog

We’re not crying, you’re crying.

President Michael D Higgins has shared an emotional tribute to his beloved dog, Bród.

The much-loved Bernese Mountain Dog, who died last year at the age of 10, would have turned 11 on Valentine’s Day.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday, President Higgins shared some beautiful photos of his furry friend, with the caption: “Thinking of Bród on his birthday, St Valentine’s Day.”

President Higgins shares emotional tribute to beloved dog

Bród was one of three Bernese Mountain Dogs that President Higgins owned during his time as the head of state, alongside the younger Misneach (meaning Courage), who arrived at Áras an Uachtaráin five months after the death of Síoda.

The president’s dogs have been a huge part of his tenure and have won the hearts of the nation in their many appearances at events and functions over the years.

After Bród passed away in April 2023, the president released a statement saying: “Bród was a very much loved and loving dog with all that met him and he enjoyed meeting with the thousands of members of the public who came to Áras an Uachtaráin over the years and he was probably one of the most photographed dogs in Ireland.

“He will be missed by the President, Sabina and all at the Áras, particularly Misneach, the President’s remaining dog who is two and a half years old, and who has shared his space with Bród over recent months and was his constant companion, aware of Bród’s situation and very attentive to him.”

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