Remembering the Bush family's Barney ... 2000-2013

Barney spent many happy days at the White House while President George W. Bush was in office. On Friday, President and Mrs. Bush released the following statement:

Laura and I are sad to announce that our Scottish Terrier, Barney, has passed away. The little fellow had been suffering from lymphoma and after twelve and a half years of life, his body could not fight off the illness.

Barney and I enjoyed the outdoors. He loved to accompany me when I fished for bass at the ranch. He was a fierce armadillo hunter. At Camp David, his favorite activity was chasing golf balls on the chipping green.

Barney guarded the South Lawn entrance of the White House as if he were a Secret Service agent. He wandered the halls of the West Wing looking for treats from his many friends. He starred in Barney Cam and gave the American people Christmas tours of the White House. Barney greeted Queens, Heads of State, and Prime Ministers. He was always polite and never jumped in their laps.

Barney was by my side during our eight years in the White House. He never discussed politics and was always a faithful friend. Laura and I will miss our pal.

Barney Cam ... what a hoot that was! He was an adorable little thing....

White House Barney Cam features Olympian Michael Phelps

Barney and Miss Beazley

President Bush takes Barney Bush riding on the ranch.

Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps guest stars in this year's Christmas Barney Cam, the annual tour of the White House through the eyes of the President's Scottie, Barney. He is joined by his fellow Scottie, Miss Beazley.

As the White House is decorated, Michael Phelps tells Barney, "I'm glad the decorations are finally coming together and you're using my favorite color, gold."

It is a light-hearted video that has been used every year since the Bush family took up residence at the White House. Catch it at the White House website.