Unlike Barney, the Bushes' Scottish terrier, Boomer doesn't bite people. He scrunches up his nose and bares his teeth when he's uncertain about something but he's not mean, unless you're a small rodent or a cat.

Oh yeah. He has seizures. They're mostly controlled by medicine, but you'd have to make sure he takes his meds every morning. We'll send them along if you want.

One more thing, he sheds like crazy. But we'd be willing to throw in a few lint brushes to keep your family looking tidy. If it helps, we could shave him (er, style him) before he comes to live with you.

So, when would you like to meet Boomer? Just give us the word and he'll be on the first flight to Chicago.

Knowing how he can worm his way into people's hearts, he'll likely be sitting in the cockpit between the pilot and co-pilot. Hopefully, he'll allow them sufficient time away from his petting needs to safely land the plane at Chicago O'Hare Airport.

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Marjorie Cortez, who would be very sad if the Obamas actually took her up on her offer (but would make the sacrifice if her nation required it), is a Deseret News editorial writer. E-mail her at marjorie@desnews.com.