Michael D Higgins shares heartwarming post of Misneach enjoying last weeks at the Áras

Higgins is preparing to move back to Galway with his wife, Sabina, and their beloved dog, Misneach.

Misneach has been making the most out of his final few weeks in Phoenix Park, alongside his other four-legged friends: Rosie, Luna, Rollo and Teddy.

The outgoing president posted some photos of the dogs playing around Áras as a final send-off to their home since 2011.

The Instagram post was captioned: "Misneach and friends – including Rosie, Luna, Rollo and Teddy- have been enjoying his final few weeks in Áras an Uachtaráin."

Plenty of users flocked to the comment section to share their love of Misneach and to give the Higgins clan their well-wishes.

One user wrote: "Ah bless, enjoy the west, the beaches, the wind."

Another commented: "Aw we’ll miss Misneach’s beautiful face but he’s done the state some service and deserves a break."

A third added: "Happy retirement Mr President – you’ve been wonderful. Thanks for so many great memories."

Yet another shared: ‘"his is so cute. We’ll miss you Misneach. Please ask your mum and dad to keep posting photos of you’re adventures so we can still see you."

Last month, Misneach celebrated his last birthday in Áras with Micheal and Sabina.

The 84-year-old has had Bernese Mountain dogs in the Áras since he took office in 2011, with Shadow the first, followed by Síoda and Bród.

Misneach is the remaining pup by Higgins’ side.

Earlier this week, President-elect Catherine Connolly met with Higgins ahead of their exchange in Áras.

Higgins wished her "health and happiness" during the visit.

The two former Galway representatives shook hands, embraced and exchanged a few words as Gaeilge.

Connolly and Higgins have known each other for many years, dating back to their time in the Labour Party in Galway city, where they were involved in both local and national politics.

Connolly is all set to be inaugurated as the tenth president of Ireland on Tuesday at a ceremony in Dublin Castle.

* This article was originally published on Extra.ie.