Uga VII died last week due to heart failure.
John Bazemore, AP
In an e-mail to the school's Athletic Director, Damon M. Evans, PETA asked the school to stop breeding animals to avoid deadly genetic issues.
"Purebred dogs are prone to countless congenital ailments from years of inbreeding -- every breeder perpetuates these genetic problems for future generations with each litter," PETA said in their e-mail to Evans. "Bulldogs are especially predisposed to breathing difficulties, hip dysplasia, and, as shown in the Uga lineage, heart disorders."
PETA also explains that Uga VII's heart illness was worsened by the pooch's exposure to hot weather and poor ventilation. The dog was four years old when he died.
Uga the Bulldog as been the University of Georgia's beloved mascot since 1956, according to the University's Web site. The school has not yet announced Uga VII's successor.
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