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First Dog takes bite at White House reporter

Reuters political reporter Jon Decker was bitten by Barney, President Bush's Scottish terrier, and had to be treated by the White House physician, according to a source on the scene.
/ Source: Access Hollywood

In a case clearly meant for “Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan, Barney the First Dog was caught biting a member of the White House press corps Thursday in Washington D.C.

Reuters political reporter Jon Decker was bitten by the Scottish terrier and had to be treated by the White House physician, according to a source on the scene.

Decker had reportedly just finished a live shot for MSNBC at 10:35 a.m. ET and was making his way toward the briefing room when he spotted Barney and his handler on a walk, the source told Access.

After asking if it was OK to pet the exiting First Dog, Decker reached down to stroke the terrier. It was at this point that Barney reportedly “snapped” and bit Decker’s finger, breaking the skin, the source said.

Decker’s reaction was reportedly, “that’s not good.”

After heading to the lower White House press office for a bandage, someone suggested Decker see the White House nurse. The nurse, in turn, reportedly sent Decker to Dr. Richard Tubb, the White House physician, who prescribed antibiotics as a precaution.

Decker is said to be doing “fine” following the incident, the source said.