President Higgins Celebrates Dog Misneach’s Final Birthday Today

UPDATE: Emotions are running high today as President Michael D. Higgins and his wife Sabina celebrate their beloved dog Misneach’s final birthday at Áras an Uachtaráin. The milestone comes just days before Ireland’s presidential election, where President Higgins will retire after serving 14 years in office.

On October 20, 2025, the Higgins family commemorates Misneach’s special day, marking her 5th birthday with heartfelt tributes on social media. The official President of Ireland account shared touching photos of Misneach alongside a birthday card, prompting an outpouring of well-wishes from the public. “Happy 5th birthday Misneach! Lá breithle shona duit,” the post read, igniting a wave of responses from dog lovers nationwide.

With only two candidates—Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys and Independent Catherine Connolly—vying for the presidency, this election marks a significant transition for Ireland. As the Higgins prepare to leave the Áras, many hope the next president will share their love for dogs. Comments on social media reflect this sentiment, with one user stating, “Having a dog should be a requirement for President.”

As the couple enjoys their last days at the official residence, Sabina expressed her eagerness to return to their home in Rahoon, Galway. Speaking to RTÉ’s Nationwide, she shared her excitement, saying, “I hope the West will be asleep and I will be sleeping luxuriously in its lap… and I will not have a bother in the world about what’s happening.”

The Higgins family has shared their home with several Bernese Mountain dogs since President Higgins took office in 2011, with Misneach being the last of the pack. This emotional farewell is not just about a pet; it symbolizes the end of an era for the Higgins and the nation they have served.

As the election approaches, the public is left to ponder the future of Ireland’s leadership. Will the next president continue the tradition of canine companionship at the Áras? This question lingers as citizens prepare to cast their votes this Friday.

Stay tuned for updates on the election and the next chapter for the Higgins family and their beloved Misneach.