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Vet: Heat killed La. Tech mascot

Published 12:06am Thursday, August 2, 2012

RUSTON (AP) — Louisiana Tech University’s mascot, Tech XX, has died.

The 4-year-old English bulldog and face of the university was reported missing Sunday from the Ruston animal clinic where he’d been staying. Authorities initially said the animal had been let out for a bathroom break and when a worker went to bring him back inside, Tech XX was nowhere to be found.

On Wednesday, Dr. Patrick Sexton, the clinic’s owner, reported the dog had died of heat stroke on Sunday.

“Regretfully, I learned this morning that through negligence of an employee, Tech XX was left outside too long on Sunday evening and passed away from a heat stroke,” Sexton said in a statement released by the university. “That employee unfortunately chose to handle it the wrong way and attempted to cover it up. Due to this negligence, the employee is no longer employed by Sexton Animal Health Center.”

Tech XX was named mascot in 2008, replacing Tech XIX, who retired due to health concerns.

Sexton said he, his family and staff were “extremely upset at this tragic turn of events.”

“Tech XX was a member of our immediate family and a daily part of our lives for the past four years. We are devastated over the circumstances of his passing, and there will be a large void in our hearts for some time to come,” he said.

The university, in a statement, said it was saddened to learn of Tech XX’s death. “He will be remembered for being a fan favorite and a symbol of the spirit of Louisiana Tech.”

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  • http://profile.yahoo.com/CNEGJEREYHUI5BRK2QOT4GXCNI Big

    WOW!  Its bad when people can not admit to their own mistakes.  People we are only human and we make mistakes but come when you kill somebody and or a animal and try to cover it up!!!!!  RIP Puppy!

  • Anonymous

    Tech should sue the clinic for negligence.

  • Anonymous

    And that would accomplish what exactly?  Overly litigious people like you are one of the chief problems in this nation.

  • Anonymous

    That English Bulldog had remarkable ears…for a bulldog.   They don’t take heat well and most are born with breathing problems requiring surgery.  They tire easily.  And, as mean as they look, they have amazingly friendly dispositions.  Most people just cannot believe that. 

  • Anonymous

    I have been owned by english bulldogs since 1976.  Some I purchased, some I raised and some I rescued.  They can not stand the heat and care must be taken in warmer weather so that they are not outside too long.  Each and every one has its own personality and I love each of them. None of mine ever had surgery for breathing problems.  If you choose a breed with inherent problems like this breed has, I feel you make the commitment to provide what is needed for these dogs.  Nothing or no one (except your mom) will look at you the way a bulldog looks at you when you come home at the end of the day and say ” I love you and I’m sure glad you are home”

  • Anonymous

    An English bulldog costs between $1500-$2000.  The clinic should be at least made to replace the bulldog, or give Tech the money to do so.  I am sure they have insurance for these kind of things.  Tragic mistake by the clinic.

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