Political Animals : The secret life of the political pets of Westminster and Washington

Larry the cat, chief

mouser of Downing Street and national treasure, has seen off six Prime

Ministers so far. He is, however, only one of a long line of political animals

at the seats of government on both sides of the Atlantic.

From pandas and

platypuses to Labradors and lions, animals have long shored up peace between

rivals, clinched election campaigns, caused divisions within parties and left

their unique calling cards in the halls of power. Journalist and former special

adviser Peter Cardwell traces the political (and not-so-political) adventures

of these fascinating pets from Tudor times to No. 10’s newest rescue dog.

Drawing on exclusive interviews with Washington and Westminster insiders,

including four Prime Ministers, Cardwell reveals never-before-heard tales of

political pets and provides fresh insight into the enduring relationships

between those in government and their furry friends.

Featuring new candid

conversations with Theresa May on living with Larry and Sir Gavin Williamson on

Cronus the tarantula’s web of influence, this paperback edition is an essential

update on the lives, losses and shenanigans of this colourful cast of characters.

Author: Peter Cardwell

London, Greater London, District of Columbia (Washington, DC), Politics & government, Humour, Domestic animals & pets

Published on 1 Sep 2026 by Biteback Publishing.