Colorado Governor Jared Polis Announced Death of Dog Gia
Gia, the longtime canine companion of the governor, passed away at the age of 17.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Dogs
Colorado Governor Jared Polis shared the news that his rescue dog, Gia, died at age 17. The dog was a constant presence alongside the governor and his husband, Marlon Reis, for nearly two decades.
Why it matters
Gia held a unique place in Colorado public life, appearing at official bill signings and even stamping the governor's wedding certificate with her paw prints. Her death marks the end of a long tenure as a familiar face in the state's political sphere.
Gia was 17 years old at the time of her passing. She was originally adopted from an animal shelter in Englewood in August 2009.
The players
Jared Polis
He is the current Governor of Colorado who served previously in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Marlon Reis
He is the First Gentleman of Colorado and the husband of Governor Jared Polis.
The details
Adopted in August 2009, Gia frequently traveled between Colorado and Washington D.C. during the governor's time in Congress. Beyond her domestic life, she participated in official state business, including news conferences and a 2025 documentary about dogs at the Colorado Capitol.
Timeline
August 2009: Jared Polis and Marlon Reis adopted Gia.
2021: Gia signed the wedding certificate of the governor and his husband.
2025: The dog featured in a documentary about the Colorado Capitol.
September 21, 2026: Gia died at the age of 17.
Culture Shift
This event reflects the tradition of First Pets in American government where animals often become public figures alongside elected officials. It marks a transition in the governor's personal life as his term in office nears its conclusion in January 2027.
The passing of a well-known political companion highlights the routine and public-facing nature of official pets in the state capital. Residents may recognize Gia from her frequent appearances at public bill signings and official ceremonies over the last several years.
The takeaway
The public life of a political figure often includes those closest to them, including family pets that become state fixtures. Gia's long life serves as a reminder of the personal milestones that occur during the course of an eight-year gubernatorial term.
Further reading
For more on the role of pets in our state, visit the Dogs section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KUNC.
