Summary:
A uniformed division officer at the White House was bitten by President Biden’s German Shepherd, Commander. The officer received on-site medical treatment and is reportedly doing well. This incident adds to a series of previous attacks by the dog on Secret Service personnel, leading to concerns about the pets’ behavior on the White House grounds. The Biden family acknowledges the stress Commander may experience and is working on ways to address it.
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An officer from the uniformed division at the White House was bitten by President Biden’s German Shepherd, Commander, on Monday around 8 p.m. Thankfully, the officer received immediate medical care on-site and is in good condition. While incidents like these can occur in a stressful environment like the White House, the first family recognizes the need to assist Commander in handling the unpredictable nature of the grounds. Jill Biden’s communications director, Elizabeth Alexander, expressed the family’s gratitude for the Secret Service and Executive Residence staff who work diligently to ensure their safety.
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This is not the first time Commander has shown aggressive behavior towards Secret Service personnel. According to records from the Department of Homeland Security, there have been at least ten other instances from October 2022 to January where the German Shepherd has bitten or attacked officers. In one incident, a law enforcement officer required hospital treatment due to the dog’s aggression. Similar issues were previously encountered with the Biden family’s first dog, Major. Following those incidents, Major was sent to live with friends in Delaware. The ongoing aggressive behavior raises concerns about the animals’ behavior on the White House premises.
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The Secret Service plays a crucial role in providing security for the president and his family, with numerous officers stationed throughout the executive mansion and grounds. In December 2021, President Biden received Commander as a gift from his brother James. The family also has a cat named Willow. With two instances of dog attacks on record, the Bidens are now actively working on finding solutions to manage Commander’s behavior within the White House environment. Despite these challenges, the family appreciates the dedication and efforts of the Secret Service and Executive Residence staff in ensuring their safety.