PETA Statement: The University of Georgia’s Bulldog Mascot, Uga X, Dies at 10 After a Hard Life

For Immediate Release:
January 23, 2024

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

Below, please find a statement from PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman in response to reports that the University of Georgia’s bulldog mascot, Uga X, who was replaced last year with another bulldog amid reports that he was suffering from health complications, has died.

The “winningest mascot” in UGA’s history was born to lose since, like all breathing-impaired breeds, he suffered from debilitating deformities such as an unnaturally shortened nose and airway that left him panting and gasping for air, particularly in the sweltering Southern heat. PETA is calling on the university to end its live-mascot program and to stop exploiting these victims of cruel breeding practices before another bulldog suffers and dies on its watch.

PETA—whose motto reads in part, that “animals are not ours to use for entertainment”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone and offers free Empathy Kits for people who need a lesson in kindness. For more information, please visit PETA.org or follow the group on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, or Instagram.