14 DAY TRIAL // They say poodles are amongst the cuddliest dog breeds there are, with few exceptions. However, former French President Jacques Chirac would tell an entirely different story, after being rushed to the hospital following a “vicious attack” of his pet Maltese, Sumo. Sumo, it should be noted, has been suffering from depression, and has a long history of tantrums and mood swings.
The incident seems to have occurred just the other day, and was apparently unprovoked, as reports in the media have it. All that is known at this point is that Chirac was attacked by Sumo, rushed to the hospital, treated as an outpatient, and then sent home. The exact part of the body where he got bitten has not been made public, but Mrs. Chirac made sure to tell the media that her husband would be just fine in a couple of weeks or so.
“My husband was bitten quite badly, but he is certain to make a full recovery over the coming weeks.” Mrs. Chirac told the media representatives gathered outside the hospital where the 76-year-old former President was taken. At the same time, she also said that Sumo had a history of throwing tantrums, but that, in the past, the dog lashed out only at her and no one else. She failed to mention, though, what would happen to the dog next.
“The dog went for him for no apparent reason. We were already aware the animal was unpredictable and is actually being treated with pills for depression.” Mrs. Chirac explained. Sumo, it seems, had long been diagnosed as “clinically depressed,” and had pills prescribed to make the mood swings go away, but to insignificant positive results, one could say. It is assumed that the Chiracs still keep the dog, regardless of the attacks and fiery temper, because it is a gift from their grandson Martin, and they have grown quite attached to it.
Useless to say, news of the former French President being attacked by his own dog have made the rounds in the local and international media. However, it is easy to understand why – a recent poll has revealed that Chirac is now one of the most popular politicians in France, with more than 70 percent of the population expressing a liking for him.