Socks

Most Presidents had dogs as their companions in the White House. The Clintons were the exception. Their daughter, Chelsea rescued a black and white kitten that she named Socks. Socks trained for his position by serving as the First Cat of Arkansas while Bill Clinton was governor. When it came time to move to the Nations capital Socks was well prepared for his duties as First Cat of the Nation.

To those of us who know and love cats it is no surprise that Socks, an elegant Tuxedo
Cat complete with moustache and goatee, handled his duties as First Cat with aplomb and dignity. It was not HIS fault a rambunctious chocolate Lab puppy didn't know his place.

According to a report by Paul Bedard in U.S. News & World Report, December 12, 2008 it seems as though Socks will soon be crossing the Rainbow Bridge. Socks is nearly nineteen years old and is suffering from cancer. His health has been declining in recent years with thyroid and kidney problems affecting his general well being.

Like all former White House residents Socks has had a busy and fulfilling retirement. With his personal aide, Betty Currie, Bill Clinton's former personal secretary, Socks has served as Grand Marshal of St. Mary's County Animal Welfare League's, SMCAWL, annual parade; which opens the organization's annual animal fair.

Socks has also participated in career days at area schools and visited Fisher House, a special house for military families at Andrews Air Force Base.

Socks has always been gracious to any members of the press or public who wanted interviews with him. After all, as the author of a book, Dear Socks, Dear Buddy: Kids Letters To First Pets, which was written with only a little help from Linda Kulman and great interference from Buddy, he is very aware of his duties to the writing community.

He has lived with Betty and Bob Currie since 2001. Bob, not particularly a cat lover, says Socks has a nice personality and is a smart. This is no surprise to Tuxie aficionados since, besides their elegant Tuxedo color and markings; Tuxies are renowned for their wonderful dispositions and intelligence.

Most of us who love our pets can't help but be saddened by the news of his failing health, while recognizing that the loss of our animal companions is something we have to accept as a part of the price for the pleasure of their company.