PRESIDENT MICHAEL D HIGGINS has announced the death of Síoda, one of his Bernese Mountain dogs.

Áras an Uachtaráin confirmed the death of Síoda as part of the President’s newsletter, stating: “Sadly we must report that Síoda has passed away, after a short illness.”

Síoda was one of two Bernese Mountain Dogs regularly pictured following President Higgins around at all major events that he hosted in the Áras. 

The fluffiest members of the Higgins family became the stars of the Áras, with unofficial Instagram and Twitter pages being made in their names amassing thousands of followers. 

The Irish Kennel Club previously told TheJournal.ie that Bernese Mountain dogs have the perfect demeanour when it comes to meeting and greeting domestic and foreign dignitaries. 

The First Dogs peaceful nature is evident through the archival footage of their many meet and greets where they are usually the main attraction. 

SIPA USA / PA Images SIPA USA / PA Images / PA Images

DPA / PA Images Bród and Síoda greet German President Joachim Gauck (L) and his partner Daniela Schadt in 2015. DPA / PA Images / PA Images

Sam Boal / Rollingnews Síoda taking a dip during a garden party at Aras An Uachtarain, 2018. Sam Boal / Rollingnews / Rollingnews

Bród and Síoda were even the focus of some scrutiny during the 2018 presidential campaign.

Candidate Peter Casey questioned Higgin’s choice to keep Bernese Mountain Dogs as pets as well as making false claims about the dog’s grooming bills (you’ll find our FactCheck on that subject here). 

Alice-Mary Higgins / Twitter Alice-Mary Higgins / Twitter / Twitter

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