The Biden family is mourning a very sad loss this weekend.
On Saturday, US President Joe Biden announced the death of his pet dog Champ, the German Shepherd. The presidential pet lived to the impressive age of 13 years old.
President Biden confirms death of pet dog Champ
President Biden, 78, shared the sad news in a lengthy tribute that makes clear just how much Champ meant to the family.
"Our hearts are heavy today as we let you all know that our beloved German Shepherd, Champ, passed away peacefully at home," Biden wrote.
President Biden's tribute continued, "He was our constant, cherished companion during the last 13 years and was adored by the entire Biden family.
"Even as Champ's strength waned in his last months, when we came into a room, he would immediately pull himself up, his tail always wagging, and nuzzle us for an ear scratch or a belly rub."
The message concluded, "In our most joyful moments and in our most grief-stricken days, he was there with us, sensitive to our every unspoken feeling and emotion. We love our sweet, good boy and will miss him always."
Did you know?
Biden family loses presidential pet German Shepherd
First Lady Dr. Jill Biden shared the same tribute as her husband on her social media pages. After the death of Champ, the US first couple now only has 3-year-old dog Major, another German Shepherd.
The loss of Champ is a devastating one, which sadly follows the recent death of Bo, one of two pets from Barack Obama's presidency. Bo, a Portuguese Water Dog, died at age 12 last month.
For animal lovers, President Biden taking office this year was a victory, as Donald Trump had been the first US president in over 150 years to not have a presidential pet in the White House. But Major is now the only current presidential pet.
The Bidens returned to American soil this week after attending the 2021 G7 Summit in the UK and meeting with Queen Elizabeth II last week.
Rest in peace, Champ.
Bittersweet for the royals
Royals Mark Father's Day With Emotional Tributes To Prince Philip
They go way back
