An Open Letter to President-Elect and Mrs. Obama

Dear Mr. & Mrs. Obama;

First, let me congratulate you on your momentous achievement and allow me to wish you well as you prepare to embark on what will no doubt be among the greatest challenges of your lives. (The greatest challenge, of course, is child-rearing; and the hardest part of that, as we all know, is keeping a straight face.)

I would like to offer a modest suggestion on a topic that you, Mr. Obama, broached in your uplifting acceptance speech: you mentioned that your family would be getting a dog.

Please consider adopting one of the far-too-plentiful animals available at one of the assorted animal shelters in Chicago or elsewhere. Many are abandoned pets, beautifully behaved and extremely well-trained, doomed to a life of misery or even early euthanasia due to nothing more than mere thoughtlessness. Please recognize that whatever you decide, the purebred puppy you would have purchased from a licensed breeder is certain to find a good home elsewhere. The same cannot be said for rescued animals.

As you have demonstrated numerous times on the campaign trail and in all areas of your lives, the best leadership is that of a good example. What a gift to expose your daughters to the concept of animal ownership in such a thoughtful way.

Best of luck in all your ongoing endeavors.

Best,
#1 Dinosaur