(WSB Radio) The Georgia Bulldogs bulldog mascot is much sicker than first thought.
Uga VIII has been diagnosed with lymphoma, says the University of Georgia.
The pup missed the Liberty Bowl on Dec. 30, 2010, because of a gastrointestinal condition that prevented him from traveling with the football team. Further diagnostic tests revealed the more serious medical condition.
UGA says Uga VIII, whose registered name is Big Bad Bruce, is responding well to treatment, and will continue sporting event appearances as his health allows.
Sonny Seiler, Uga's owner, says the pup's primary vet is his namesake, Dr. Bruce Hollett, who has tended to the medical needs of the Uga line for many years.
Uga VIII is the great-great-great-great-great grandson of the original Uga. He was introduced to Georgia fans at the Oct. 16, 2010 Homecoming football game against Vanderbilt. Uga VIII was born Sept. 12, 2009. The Seilers, of Savannah, have provided mascots for UGA sporting events since 1956.
If Uga VIII is unable to appear at athletic events, Russ, the half-brother of Uga VII, will fill in for him. Russ filled in at the final two games of the 2009 season following the death of Uga VII as well as the first six games of 2010. He also was present at the Liberty Bowl game last month because of Uga VIII's illness.