PETA asks UGA to drop live mascot. get a robotic UGA..
they just never quit. I have never known a member of peta.. have you?
PETA asks UGA to drop live mascot - News - Ledger-Enquirer.com
PETA asks UGA to drop live mascot
BY ANDREA HERNANDEZ - [email protected]
An animal rights organization says the use of a live bulldog mascot contributes to the breed’s health problems and wants the University of Georgia to consider an alternative.
PETA suggests Georgia could use a robot dog or a costumed mascot instead of the white English bulldogs that have represented the school at football games since 1956.
Last week, bulldog mascot Uga VII died at the age of 4, apparently of a heart ailment.
Desiree Acholla of PETA says bulldogs are prone to heart problems and other medical issues because of inbreeding.
Acholla made the comments in a letter to university athletic director Damon Evans.
“Bulldogs are especially predisposed to breathing difficulties, hip dysplasia, and, as shown in the Uga lineage, heart disorders,” she wrote. “Like other dogs, bulldogs love to run and play, but their compromised respiratory system causes these playful animals to struggle for breath. Poor ventilation and hot or humid weather can be deadly for a purebred bulldog. This is made even more difficult for a bulldog who must travel frequently.”
Hank Hall, a veterinarian at Northside Animal Hospital in Columbus, said bulldogs have more health problems than most other dog breeds. But, he said, live animals that are team mascots typically receive top-notch care — including regular vaccines, grooming, nutrition and exercise. They are also well-socialized.
“These dogs get the ultimate, wonderful care,” Hall said. “If you’re an animal, you want to make it to the mascot level... These guys all enjoy a terrific lifestyle.”
The Athens Banner-Herald reports that an assistant to Evans replied that PETA’s letter makes good points that deserve consideration, but promised no specific action.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
