Throughout history, many presidents have had interesting and unusual pets. Did you know that one US president kept a hyena as a pet?

Which President Had a Pet Hyena?

Andrew Jackson: The President with a Hyena

Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, was known for his tough and authoritative personality, as well as his fondness for animals. One of his most famous pets was a hyena named Nelly. Jackson acquired Nelly as a gift from a naval officer who had brought the animal back from Africa.

Nelly quickly became a beloved member of the Jackson family, though an unlikely one. Accounts describe Nelly dining with the Jacksons, sleeping in the White House, and even accompanying the president on his travels. The hyena's unpredictable and often bizarre behavior often amused and entertained both Jackson and his guests.

However, Nelly's presence in the White House also caused some concerns and controversies. Many people were unfamiliar with hyenas and saw them as dangerous animals. There were also concerns about Nelly potentially attacking other animals or even humans. Despite these concerns, Jackson remained attached to his hyena and kept her as a pet throughout his presidency.

Historical Significance

Andrew Jackson's pet hyena, Nelly, holds a unique place in American history. She is the only hyena known to have been kept as a pet by a US president. Nelly's presence in the White House drew considerable attention and sparked discussions about the role of animals in presidential households and the suitability of exotic pets.

Jackson's pet hyena also adds an intriguing and somewhat humorous touch to his presidency. While he is primarily remembered for his political and military accomplishments, the fact that he had a hyena as a companion offers a glimpse into his personal life and his unconventional approach to animal ownership.

Other Presidential Pets

While Andrew Jackson's pet hyena may be the most unusual, other US presidents have had notable pets as well. Here are a few examples:

  • Abraham Lincoln: Lincoln kept a variety of pets, including cats, dogs, horses, and even a pair of goats. His most famous animal companion was his dog, Fido, who was often seen at the White House.
  • Theodore Roosevelt: Roosevelt was an avid naturalist and conservationist who kept a wide range of animals as pets, including horses, dogs, cats, guinea pigs, and a bear cub named Jonathan Edwards.
  • John F. Kennedy: Kennedy's family had several pets during his presidency, including a dog named Pushinka, a cat named Tom Kitten, and two ponies named Macaroni and Tex.

These are just a few examples of the many interesting and unique pets that have lived in the White House throughout history. While not all presidents have kept exotic or unusual animals, their pets often provide intriguing insights into their personalities and interests.