PAWSITIVELY FAMOUS
Let's Check Out History's Most Memorable Pets!
Published on March 22, 2024
Credit: Paul Hanaoka
There's probably a beloved pet from your childhood that still brings a smile to your face, or perhaps you currently share your home with a furry friend whose presence is essential to you. Throughout the annals of history, humans have cherished the companionship of animals, and even the most renowned figures, from celebrities to historical icons, found joy and love in the company of their faithful pets.
Some of these creatures captured people's attention far and wide, leaving an unforgettable paw print on the hearts of many. Join us to remember these 10 famous pets!
Scatter, Elvis' Chimpanzee
Credit: Vlad Kutepov
Elvis Presley's impact on art and culture is indisputable. Known as the "King of Rock and Roll," he blazed trails not only in music but also in fashion and performance style. But his quirks extended beyond the stage.
Within the walls of Graceland, alongside his many dogs and horses, Elvis welcomed an unusual addition to his family in 1961: Scatter, the chimpanzee. Scatter quickly became a fixture in Elvis's life, accompanying him to concerts and movie sets. However, the mischievous primate often tested the boundaries of decorum. One can only imagine the chorus of "Scatter, no!"
Poll, Andrew Jackson's Parrot
Credit: David Clode
Two years before becoming the president of the United States, Andrew Jackson acquired a parrot. No big deal, right? After all, how much trouble could a little bird cause? Well, enter Poll, President Jackson's feathered friend with, let's say, a talent.
Poll possessed a distinctive quality that set him apart from the rest: a predisposition for profanity. It remains a mystery where he picked up such colorful language, but one thing's for sure: this parrot cursed like a sailor, often delivering bad words at the most inappropriate times.
Kenya, Mike Tyson's Tiger
Credit: Rick L
While it's cute to imagine Mike Tyson with a small puppy on his lap, it's true that the successful boxer also had big (and eccentric) pets.
In the vast expanse of Tyson's mansion, not one, not two, but three Bengal tigers roamed majestically. That's right—three imposing tigers, right in the comfort of his own home. As these creatures matured, Tyson decided to donate two of them to a local sanctuary. However, one remained by his side: Kenya, his favorite. Notably, Tyson kept Kenya as a devoted companion for an impressive 16 years!
Checkers, Richard Nixon's Cocker Spaniel
Credit: Melissa Keizer
After some exotic animals, we will finally talk about a more familiar pet: a puppy. In particular, Richard Nixon's cocker spaniel.
The Nixon family received the little black and white puppy as a gift, and he quickly became an integral part of the family. The children wasted no time and gave their new furry friend an appropriate name: Checkers.
Though he never lived in the White House, Checkers made a lasting impression on American history. In 1952, he stole the spotlight in a famous speech delivered by Richard Nixon, elevating Checkers to national fame overnight.
Pippin, Audrey Hepburn's Baby Deer
Credit: Scott Carroll
When the famous Audrey Hepburn was filming her movie Green Mansions (1959), she met a baby deer that was part of the cast. To enhance their on-screen chemistry and authenticity, someone floated the idea that Hepburn should adopt the deer as her pet. And you know what? It turned out to be a great idea.
The actress and her deer forged an unbreakable bond, so strong that she would take her unusual friend along for shopping trips, much like one might with a puppy or a cat. It's truly an endearing image, isn't it?
Rufus, Churchill's Poodle
Credit: Steven Van Elk
Winston Churchill was not only a statesman but also a devoted pet owner. Among his array of animals, which included dogs, cats, horses, and even fish, one particular mate captured his heart: his beloved toy poodle, Rufus.
Photographs abound of the former Prime Minister with his cherished little dog, suggesting that Rufus was a constant companion by his side.
Max, George Clooney's Pig
Credit: Jon Butterworth
Let's be honest: piglets are undeniably adorable when they're tiny. However, as they grow, their once charming appearance can become a bit intimidating. Fortunately, this wasn't the case for George Clooney. Quite the opposite!
The successful actor fell in love with a Vietnamese pot-bellied pig in the early 1990s and kept it as his loyal companion for almost 20 years. Clearly, George Clooney doesn't judge a book by its cover.
John Quincy Adams' Alligator
Credit: Shelly Collins
Although many of our nation's presidents are remembered for their serious demeanor, some delightful anecdotes reveal their lighter side. One such tale revolves around President John Quincy Adams and his unusual pet. We're not talking about a parrot or a pig, but an alligator!
While some experts dismiss this story as mere legend, its fame remains undeniable. To add a humorous touch to the narrative, it's been said that Adams would play a prank on guests by inviting them into the bathroom, where the alligator was kept, just to enjoy their reactions.
Lump, Picasso's Dachshund
Credit: Khalid Elkady
Just as politicians and actors, artists also have their moment on this list.
Among Pablo Picasso's myriad of pets, one stood out: Lump, the dachshund. Their encounter in 1957 sparked a long friendship that lasted over 15 years.
Picasso's affection for Lump transcended mere companionship; it found its way into his art. One of the most renowned examples is a remarkable drawing by Picasso: a single-line depiction of a dachshund. This simple yet powerful artwork immortalizes the bond between the artist and his beloved pet.
Socks, Bill Clinton's Cat
Credit: Andrea Lightfoot
No list of famous pets would be complete without a kitty. And when it comes to iconic cats, Socks, the Clintons' cat, undoubtedly claims a top spot.
Named for his distinctive black fur and white paws, Socks made the White House his home during Bill Clinton's presidency, captivating the hearts of many admirers along the way. So popular was Socks that the little animal had a website dedicated to him, providing fans with a platform to shower the kitty with messages of affection.