Síoda, one of two dogs owned by President Michael D. Higgins, has died after a short illness.
A familiar presence at Áras an Uachtaráin since President Higgins was elected in 2011, Síoda was one of two Bernese Mountain Dogs that lived in the presidential residence, the other being Bród.
The news was first mentioned in a newsletter detailed by Áras an Uachtaráin, with a spokesperson for the President confirming that "sadly we must report that Síoda has passed away after a short illness."
Needless to say, news of Síoda's passing didn't go down too well on Twitter.
Just read that Ireland's favourite dog Síoda has passed away after a brief illness. This is so sad. Them two were inseparable, even during many official engagements. This is my favourite photo of them.
Sending my thoughts & prayers to our President & his family. @PresidentIRL pic.twitter.com/G1mpBbP2Bs— Alicia V. Perry (@aliciavperry) September 19, 2020
the presidential dog Síoda is after passing away i don’t know how much more loss i can take this year
— kelly 🧩 (@slimethot) September 19, 2020
I support the motion that there should be a statue of Síoda in Phoenix Park so everyone will get a chance to pet her #RIPSioda
— Fintan Walsh (@FintanWalsh) September 19, 2020
Sioda, the President’s beautiful dog has died. The loss of a loving pet is a very sad moment @PresidentIRL pic.twitter.com/GN9cu6ijHX
— Fergal Bowers (@FergalBowers) September 19, 2020
