Dogs in the Media
Dogs seem to humanize people so well, that is why they are often embraced by public figures. Politicians are known for their well-timed used of a family dog to connect themselves to the public. For example, during the Monica Lewinsky scandal, President Bill Clinton bought a chocolate Labrador retriever named Buddy, who was specially chosen for his breed and coloring to enhance Clintons image a family man. Presidents have also been stigmatized by their treatment of dogs. The ignominious photo of President Lyndon Johnson pulling his dog up by the ears while the animal yelped in pain permanently sullied his public image.
It seems in times of crisis, dogs are often depicted on the news and in the media. Rescue efforts for dogs trapped in floods or other natural disasters are frequently aired. For example during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, disaster search and rescue dogs were featured prominently in the media coverage.
Advertising is a medium where dogs are also highly featured. They are used to show a company or organization in a more sensitive light or to humorously spotlight a product or message. Whatever the message, the perception of dogs as uniquely American has made them popular spokesmodels.
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