Washington ? Critter Christmas at the White House this year honors the dogs, cats, birds, horses, sheep, squirrels, alligators and raccoons that hold a place in presidential history.

“Every president has had animals while at the White House,” said First Lady Laura Bush, who unveiled the “All Creatures Great and Small” holiday decorations at a press preview last week. “We looked for interesting stories about them.”

Bush, who says she’s an avid bird-watcher, said the 25 animals that appear on mantels and pier tables throughout the house were made of papier-mache by the White House staff. Two have been placed at the White House Visitor Center: the cow Pauline Wayne, who provided milk for President Taft; and Barney, the Bush’s Scottie dog.