[5] His name was inspired by his white paws,[6] which resembled those of the title character of the Beverly Cleary novel Socks.

During the Clinton administration, children visiting the White House website would be guided by a cartoon version of Socks.

[9] By June 2008, Socks was still living with Currie and her husband in Hollywood, Maryland, about 60 miles from Washington, but had a thyroid condition, hair and weight loss, and kidney problems.

[10] In December 2008, Socks was reported to be in failing health, apparently suffering from cancer.

[11] Socks was euthanized on February 20, 2009, in Hollywood, Maryland,[12] after suffering cancer of the jaw.