New Top Dog for the First Family


Click here for photos of the new puppy

WILMINGTON – Delaware’s First Family has a new member and her name is “Rue.”   “Rue,” a playful, three-month old puppy with some pretty big paws has recently joined the Markell household.

“We’re in the getting-to-know you phase,” said the Governor. “Rue’s finding her way around and has been pretty well-behaved.  Everyday her tail wags a little bit more.”

The Markells adopted the mixed breed puppy (possibly part Shepherd, Boxer, Lab ) from the Delaware Humane Association in Wilmington.     Her name comes from a character in the movie, “The Hunger Games,” who is small and easily underestimated by other competitors.

“Rue loves people and has plenty of energy,” said First Lady Carla Markell.  “She is adorable, fun and pretty smart.  Rue has been fetching and understands the command ‘sit.’”  Rue and our cat, Belle, haven’t quite made their peace yet.  They are giving each other space, but every now and then when they are in the same room, it’s ‘interesting.’”

Rue-the-dog joins Belle-the-cat and Norma-the-goldfish in the Markell household.  Belle was rescued from a dumpster in 1998.