By Sports Correspondent

Published:
July 3, 2024

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Updated:
July 3, 2024

The Cleveland Browns are facing pressure from animal rights organization PETA to end their live mascot tradition following the unexpected passing of their sideline dog, Swagger Jr., at just five years old. Swagger Jr. had been the team’s live mascot for most of his short life, taking over from his father, Swagger, who also passed away prematurely in 2020.

PETA’s executive vice president, Tracy Reiman, pointed out the health issues that bullmastiffs, the breed of the Browns’ mascots, often face due to generations of selective breeding. “Bullmastiffs are prone to hip dysplasia, cancer, and life-threatening heart issues, among other painful conditions,” Reiman told TMZ Sports. She urged the Browns to view Swagger Jr.’s passing as “a damning indictment of an industry that deliberately churns out these doomed, breathing-impaired breeds.”

Cleveland Browns live mascot Swagger Jr., a bullmastiff, who recently passed away at age 5

PETA has urged the Cleveland Browns to end their live-mascot tradition and consider changing their logo

The Browns have not yet announced their plans for another live mascot. Reiman suggested that the team “adopt a logo featuring a brown mixed-breed dog from a local animal shelter,” per TMZ. The cause of Swagger Jr.’s death has not been disclosed by the team, but bullmastiffs typically have a life expectancy of eight to ten years, according to WebMD.

Tributes poured in for Swagger Jr. from Browns fans and notable figures on social media. WWE wrestler Johnny Gargano, a native of Cleveland, shared fond memories of the mascot with videos of him and his family at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Olympic Gold medalist Katie Moon also expressed her sadness with a teary-eyed emoji, a broken-heart emoji, and a photo of herself with the beloved mascot.