Ted Kennedy's Famous Dog, Splash, Dies

Dec. 24, 2010— -- He may not have had a seat in the Senate, but Splash Kennedy left an everlasting impression in the chambers of Congress and even at the White House.

The late Sen. Ted Kennedy's beloved Portuguese water dog died at 13 after a lifetime in the political limelight.

"At Teddy's side, Splash became a world-class fetcher of tennis balls and a meeter and greeter of presidents, senators, congressmen and even foreign dignitaries," Kennedy's widow, Vicki, said in an e-mail announcing his death.

Splash and the Kennedy's other dogs, Sunny and Cappy, were a constant fixture at the late senator's side.

Whether he was voting on important pieces of legislation or meeting with guests and dignitaries or the president of the United States, it wasn't unusual to see Kennedy with at least one of his dogs.

The longtime senator's love for his Portuguese water dogs even inspired President Obama, who promised his daughters a puppy if he won the campaign. The first family's dog, Bo, was a gift from Kennedy and was bred by the same breeders as his own three dogs.

"I am proud to endorse the Portuguese Water dog as the next First Dog (or Dogs) of the United States," Kennedy said in a statement last year when the Obamas were hunting for the first pet. "They have a can do and hopeful spirit, they are smart, they are resilient, they are determined, they are optimistic, and they are tireless."

"They're loyal, smart, loving and they become a real part of the family. And they definitely do not shed," he added.

Perhaps what Splash will be remembered for the most is being the narrator in a children's book -- penned by his owner -- titled "My Senator and Me: A Dog's Eye View Of Washington, D.C."

The book was published in 2006 and is designed to teach children about the political process.

After all, Splash was an important member of Congress, having presided in influential meetings and many a hearing.