Ted Kennedy has served as a U.S. Senator for over four decades. He is a well-known presence in Washington D.C. Over the past six years another face has become well known, only this one comes equipped with long floppy ears, a wet nose and shaggy brown hair: his Portuguese Water Dog, Splash! Splash has become quite the political pup through a variety of projects with Senator Kennedy. Splash even helped Senator Kennedy pen his new children’s book, My Senator and Me: A Dogs-Eye View of Washington, D.C.
Whether he is out for a stroll with his canine pal or attending an important press conference, wherever Senator Kennedy goes you can usually find Splash trotting at his heels.
Senator Kennedy and his pup Splash, are working hard to help America. Animal Fair spoke to the lady who paws down knows best what a help Splash is around the office, Senator Kennedy’s press agent Gannet Tseggai.
AF: How does Splash help Senator Kennedy through political situations?
GT: Splash accompanies Senator Kennedy throughout his day at work – to meetings, press conferences, conference committee meetings and bill signings. So many times, Splash has made a difference in the outcome of those meetings. The book describes one time that Splash started barking when discussions became tense. His barking made everyone laugh, temperatures cooled, and decisions were reached.
AF: How does Splash help Senator Kennedy handle the pressure of political office?
GT: Splash is very cool under pressure! Maybe it’s those games of fetch after meetings, maybe it’s the treats after a press conference, or maybe it’s his ability to squeeze a power nap into the day.
AF: Who are some famous politicians Splash has rubbed noses with while on the job? Does he know their dogs?
GT: Splash accompanied Senator Kennedy to the White House for the bill signing ceremony for the No Child Left Behind Act. He met President Bush’s dog, Barney. At the conclusion of the ceremony everyone who attended received a Presidential pen, but Splash received a bone, signed by Barney.
AF: What do Senator Kennedy and Splash hope to teach children through their new book?
GT: Senator Kennedy introduces young readers to Washington and takes them through the process by which a bill becomes a law. It’s a fun book and it’s educational. It lets young children understand not only how the government works, but also how that work affects their lives.
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