University of Georgia mascot Uga VII dies

ATLANTA — The University of Georgia’s mascot, Uga VII, has died.

A cause of death Thursday for the pure white English bulldog was not immediately known and several Atlanta media organizations reported the death.

The dog, named “Loran’s Best,” made his football debut in August 2008 in a ceremony before Georgia’s 45-21 win over Georgia Southern. School officials said an announcement is expected shortly.

He was the latest in a line of mascots that have been featured on the covers of Sports Illustrated, Time, Newsweek and in several movies.

The previous mascot, Uga VI, died of heart failure in June 2008 after a nine-year reign. He was the school’s winningest mascot with an 87-27 record, seven wins in nine bowl appearances and a pair of Southeastern Conference championships.