JD Vance, the Republican vice-presidential nominee, has found himself in the spotlight not just for his political aspirations but also for his canine companion, a German shepherd named Atlas. But beyond the surface, questions linger: Is Atlas truly Vance’s dog, and does Vance even know how to handle such a dog? Let’s delve into the details surrounding Atlas and the role he plays in Vance’s public image.
Atlas’s Debut on the Campaign Trail
Atlas, a 9-month-old German shepherd, made his first appearance alongside Vance on the campaign trail in Milwaukee. The intention behind featuring Atlas was to humanize Vance and present a relatable image to voters. However, the appearance sparked scrutiny and raised questions about Vance’s experience with dogs.
The Viral Video and Dog-Handling Skills
A viral video of Vance walking Atlas ignited a debate about his dog-handling skills. In the clip, Vance can be seen gripping the middle of Atlas’s leash with only three fingers, rather than using the recommended wrist loop. Experts have criticized this technique, suggesting it may not be sufficient for handling a large dog like Atlas and could pose safety risks.
Eli Yudin, a seasoned dog walker, noted that using only three fingers to hold the leash might not be enough if Atlas decides to pull or chase something, potentially leading to injury for Vance. Johnny Stoumbos, another dog walking professional, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of a secure grip and proper leash management, especially with a large breed.
Adding to the concerns, some viewers noted that Atlas’s body language in the video suggested discomfort, with his tail and ears down. Yudin interpreted this as a sign that Atlas might not be accustomed to being walked by Vance, raising questions about who the dog’s primary handler is.
Is Atlas a “Rent-a-Dog?”
Adding another layer to the story, a clip circulated on social media where JD Vance quipped to Tucker Carlson that his German Shepherd was assigned to him by the Trump campaign to make him seem like a dog-lover. This led to speculation about whether Atlas was genuinely Vance’s dog or merely a political prop.
Politifact later clarified that Atlas is, in fact, Vance’s real dog. However, questions remain about the authenticity of Vance’s connection with Atlas, especially considering the dog’s limited presence in Vance’s public life prior to the campaign.
German Shepherds in the White House
Despite the controversy surrounding Vance’s dog-handling skills, the presence of a German shepherd in the White House is a long-standing tradition. Historically, presidential pups have been popular figures in Washington, D.C.. Most recently, President Joe Biden’s two German shepherds, Commander and Major, resided at the White House. However, they were later removed due to biting incidents.
As another German shepherd may potentially come to D.C. with Vance, depending on election results, celebrity dog trainer Chrissy Joy emphasized the importance of proper training, activity, and exposure for the breed.
The Impact on Vance’s Campaign
The video of Vance walking Atlas has had unintended consequences on his campaign. While the intention was to humanize Vance, it has instead cast doubt on his dog-handling skills and added to the challenges he faces in connecting with voters. The incident highlights the fine line between showcasing a personal moment and opening oneself up to scrutiny.
Conclusion
The story of JD Vance and his German shepherd, Atlas, is more than just a simple human-interest piece. It touches on themes of authenticity, political image-making, and the role of pets in public life. While Atlas may be Vance’s real dog, questions persist about their connection and Vance’s ability to handle him. As Vance navigates the campaign trail, he will need to address these concerns and demonstrate a genuine bond with his canine companion.