Following the tragic death of Victor E. Bulldog II in March, Fresno State has pulled its campus together, licked its wounds, devoted the proper amount of time to mourning, and now, three months later, the Bulldogs are ready to move forward. It’s time.
On Wednesday, Fresno State introduced its new live mascot: Victor E. Bulldog III. Victor III replaces, naturally, Victor II, and stands in a long line of live Fresno State bulldogs in a tradition that dates back to 1921. Among his predecessors include Moose, who in 1958 escaped his keeper’s grasp and was trampled under rival Pacific’s train. His “grandson” Moose III served 10 years and was retired due to his fear of the cannon blast that fired after every Fresno State touchdown.
“Born in a litter of seven puppies to parents Itchky and Ruby on March 14, 2015, he currently weighs 13.5 pounds and has a projected adult size of 45-50 pounds,” the university noted in its official press release.
“Having Victor E. Bulldog III join our Fresno State family makes this a very special day for our University and the entire Valley,” president Dr. Joseph Castro said. “As our mascot, he is beloved by the Red Wave and holds a special place in all of our hearts. Today is also a bittersweet day as we think about the sudden loss of Victor E. II, who leaves a big `collar’ to fill. We’ll remember him and celebrate his spirit as we welcome the newest, and hopefully boldest, Fresno State Bulldog.”
Mr. Bulldog even has his own Twitter account:
I love this campus already! Looking forward to meeting you, @JosephICastro! #FresnoState #VEBIII pic.twitter.com/zQI38dN10H
— Victor E Bulldog III (@VictorEBulldog) June 10, 2015