Things will not quite be the same from now on at Michigan State University after the heartbreaking death of their beloved mascot, Zeke the Wonderdog.
The red English Labrador was 11 years old and passed away due to a rare cancer, according to his handlers.
The school announced in a statement: ‘It is with heavy hearts that we share that Buckshot – known to the Michigan State community as Zeke the Wonderdog for the last decade – passed away peacefully this weekend surrounded by his family.
‘Since 2016, he served as Zeke IV at Michigan State University, bringing joy to campus and upholding one of the university’s most cherished traditions.’
That tradition started back in 1977, when the first ‘Zeke the Wonderdog’ became hugely popular with the Spartans fanbase through a halftime show, performed by MSU student Gary Eisenberg and his dog, Ezekiel.
The original Zeke retired in 1984 but the Spartans brought the tradition back in 2002. Two other dogs took the tradition on before Buckshot became the fourth Zeke in the college tradition.
Michigan State University announced the death of their mascot Zeke the Wonderdog
Zeke has formed a part of the tradition around Michigan State sports teams since 1977
‘He was happiest with a frisbee in the air ― whether practicing in the yard or racing across the turf,’ a tribute on the official Zeke Facebook page said.
Buckshot stepped up a day after Zeke III had passed away, appearing at a Spartans college basketball game.
But there is no word yet on whether a replacement is lined up now to continue the tradition.
Fans were inevitably saddened to hear the news after it was announced on social media.
‘He was such a good pup. So sad to hear this,’ one responded. Another replied: ‘The source of so many smiles for so many years. Rest easy.’
The Michigan State Spartans men’s basketball team are next in action on Thursday night.
