Any football fan knows that the game is more than just the action on the field. From game-day traditions and chants to intense rivalries to the intersection of football and the entertainment worlds, the atmosphere around games is driven by pure passion. Mascots are part of almost every team’s interaction with their fans. They have been a part of the game’s culture, not just in football but in other sports as well. But, now one particular team has been called into question. So, why has having a mascot become a contested issue all of a sudden?

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, widely known as PETA, is known for advocating for animal rights. Most recently they called out the Georgia Bulldogs because of their mascot. Here’s a look at the details of the issue.

PETA called attention to the Georgia Bulldogs’ mascot

For the second time in a row, the University of Georgia won the national championship, but the feat was followed by some drama. PETA brought attention to the school’s use of a live bulldog. With their football team named ‘Georgia Bulldogs,’ the reason for the mascot is pretty evident.

But the animal rights organization believes that the use of a live bulldog increases the demand for breathing-impaired dog breeds. PETA called out to the school, asking for the discontinuation of the use of ‘Uga’ the mascot. In light of these events, two former Bulldogs stars defended the use of the mascot.

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Tavarres King, a former punter, emphasized the care that is given to the mascot. He said, “I don’t think folks know how good of a life Uga lives. That dog’s loved, bro. Chill out, PETA.” Another former player, RB Knowshon Moreno also had a say on the matter, stating that doing so would be getting rid of tradition. However, this is not the first time that entities in the football world have been called out by PETA.

Fans had their say on the PETA- Bulldogs matter

Broncos QB Russell Wilson and his wife Ciara were called out by the organization after the couple uploaded a video of their new puppy. Received as a mother’s day gift, the organization took issue with the fact that the couple bought a specially bred dog instead of adopting one from the shelter.

Coming back to the issue at hand, Georgia Bulldogs fans were not too impressed by the animal rights organization’s appeal against their mascot. These users exclaimed that the mascot was given the best treatment by stating.

Other fans expressed their support for the team and mascot.

The circumstances surrounding the Georgia Bulldogs’ mascot may be contested but fans believe that there should be no issue. What do you think of PETA’s view on the matter? Let us know in the comments.

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