Moldova’s beloved canine, Codrut, who gained international attention after biting Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen during a state visit, returned to the safety of the official residence after going missing on New Year’s Eve. Codrut’s brief disappearance sparked a wave of concern among Moldovans, who rallied together to search for the dog.
The mixed-breed dog’s return was met with relief, and his escapade in the capital became the talk of the town. However, Codrut’s adventurous journey wasn’t the only thing that put him in the spotlight, as his notoriety for biting the Austrian president continues to make headlines.
Codrut’s New Year’s Eve Escapade
Codrut, a mixed-breed dog, has been the companion of Moldova’s President Maia Sandu since 2023. The dog, who has had a challenging past, was adopted after being hit by a car and losing a leg.
Despite his disability, Codrut has grown into a symbol of resilience, drawing the affection of Moldovans and international attention due to his actions and association with the president.
However, on New Year’s Eve, during the fireworks celebration, Codrut bolted in fear, causing panic in the capital, Chisinau. Fireworks, which are often loud and frightening for pets, were the catalyst for Codrut’s sudden disappearance. The sight of a missing dog, especially one with such a high-profile owner, quickly became the subject of social media posts and local news.
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Citizens took to their social media platforms, reporting sightings of the dog as they tried to track down his whereabouts. Codrut’s golden fur and distinct features were recognized, and the Moldovan community’s efforts to bring him home were impressive.
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After hours of searching, Codrut was safely brought back to the official presidential residence, much to the relief of the Sandu family and their supporters. Igor Zaharov, the presidential press secretary, posted a message on social media to inform the public of Codrut’s safe return. “Our good friend Codrut had an unpleasant experience, but he is safe at home,” Zaharov wrote.
Codrut’s New Year’s Eve adventure became the talk of the town, as many Moldovans celebrated his return to the safety of his home. His escapade, which lasted only a few hours, highlighted the deep connection between the Moldovan president and her pet, as well as the public’s concern for the well-being of the dog.
Codrut’s Infamous Bite Incident
Codrut is not a stranger to international attention. His notorious incident with Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen in November 2023 made headlines across Europe. During a state visit to Moldova, President Van der Bellen encountered Codrut, and the dog bit him, causing a minor wound to the Austrian leader’s hand.
The bite was not a serious injury, but it sparked a wave of media coverage due to the prominence of both the dog and the Austrian president.
While such incidents are not unusual for presidential pets, Codrut’s bite became particularly newsworthy due to the high-profile nature of the event. As expected, the incident prompted immediate reactions from both the Moldovan and Austrian governments.
Moldova’s authorities and the Sandu family quickly moved to address the situation, with President Sandu expressing regret over the incident. Codrut’s actions, although unintended, raised questions about the responsibility of presidential pets and the security measures taken during such state visits.
President Sandu later explained that Codrut had acted out of fear, possibly startled by the presence of so many unfamiliar people and the unfamiliar surroundings during the state visit.
The media frenzy that followed Codrut’s bite was immense, but the Moldovan president remained calm, reassuring the public that the dog was friendly and well cared for.
Codrut’s reputation as a somewhat mischievous presidential dog grew, and he became the subject of various humorous memes and discussions on social media. Despite the incident, Codrut continued to be a beloved figure, adored by many for his resilience and loyalty to the president.
A Presidential Dog with a Complex Past
Codrut’s story is one of hardship, survival, and eventual adoption by a caring family. His beginnings were far from easy. Before being adopted by President Maia Sandu, Codrut had endured a traumatic experience: he was struck by a car, which led to the loss of one of his legs.
Despite this, Codrut survived and was taken in by a loving family, who ensured he received the care and attention he needed to recover and live a fulfilling life.
In 2023, President Sandu adopted Codrut, offering him a second chance at life. His adoption was seen as an act of compassion, as the president took in a dog who had experienced great hardship.
Codrut, who quickly became known as the ‘first dog’ of Moldova, was a symbol of resilience and hope. His unique background and the challenges he faced made him an even more endearing figure in the eyes of Moldovans.
Codrut’s journey with President Sandu has been filled with moments of joy, but it has also been marked by the occasional controversy. Aside from his infamous bite incident with the Austrian president, Codrut’s presence at state events and his interactions with officials have sometimes been a source of lighthearted moments and occasional missteps. Still, the dog’s charming and sometimes mischievous nature has earned him a special place in the hearts of many.
Despite his brief and slightly dramatic New Year’s Eve escapade, Codrut’s story continues to inspire. The dog’s return to the president’s residence was a reminder of the bond between humans and their pets, as well as the deep connection Moldovans feel to their leaders and their pets.
Codrut’s return also signified that he would continue to be a part of President Sandu’s life and the country’s political narrative, representing the resilience and heart of Moldova.
Moldova’s First Dog
Codrut, Moldova’s first dog, has become a symbol of resilience and loyalty. His journey from a car accident survivor to the beloved companion of President Maia Sandu is a testament to his strength and ability to overcome adversity.
Whether he is playing in the presidential residence or making headlines with his playful antics, Codrut is a reminder that even in the world of politics, there is room for compassion and empathy.
His brief disappearance and subsequent return home in the early days of 2025 are just another chapter in his remarkable story. As Moldova’s first dog, Codrut will likely continue to capture the public’s attention, whether through humorous incidents or heartwarming displays of loyalty. With his infectious charm and heartwarming backstory, Codrut remains a beloved figure in Moldova’s public life.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏