September 21st

By Mutt Mulligan

TurfMutt salutes dogs in politics

Have you ever heard of Checker’s Day? It’s also called Dogs in Politics Day, and it’s celebrated each year on Sept. 23.

It commemorates the famous “Checkers speech” that Richard Nixon gave in 1952. Politicians are banned from taking donations for their own use. During his run for vice president, Nixon was accused of receiving money to line his personal coffers, as well as a cocker spaniel named Checkers for his young daughters.

But Nixon won over voters when he explained how much his children loved Checkers. Nixon said, “The kids, like all kids, love the dog and I just want to say this right now, that regardless of what they say about it, we’re gonna keep it.”

Nixon went on to become vice president, winning in a landslide with Dwight D. Eisenhower at the top of the ticket. And Checker’s Day was born.

Just like kids loved Checkers, kids also adore TurfMutt – another dog who is making a difference. In fact, TurfMutt’s program has reached 68 million children, educators and families since 2009. Visit TurfMutt’s website to learn more.