ADMINISTRATION BUILDING — Hearts are heavy on campus today, as Howler — beloved campus mascot — was put down at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. Staff were notified via email of the euthanization at 9:00 a.m., while students found out later that afternoon via an Instagram post of Howler with the hashtag #lastwalk.
The decision to euthanize Howler followed a Facebook poll that predicted the mascot as top dog in the USSU presidential election. A statement released by the U of S administration states that they had no other options.
“It was clear that students wanted Howler as their USSU president — the other candidates only had a dog’s chance. Candidates need to be students, and Howler is a full-time U of S employee. Besides, he was getting mange,” the statement said. “Those grieving should know that past popes have, in fact, confirmed that all dogs go to heaven.”
The university has not yet commented on the ethicality of euthanizing Howler, as the Sheaf determined earlier this year that the mascot was actually a man raised by wolves.
Howler is succeeded — in family and occupation — by his half-brother, Growler. A vigil will be held for the dog-man in the Bowl on Oct. 9 at 9:00 p.m. Vigil-goers are encouraged to bring dog treats for Howler’s next of kin and the USask therapy dogs. Howling at the moon will begin at 9:30 p.m., sharp.
Howler’s ashes will be interred outside of the Thorvaldson Building, next to the cube that encases the remains of Thorbergur Thorvaldson himself. Reportedly, a monument to the Huskie hero will be erected next to his favourite place for doing his business, near the Rink in the Bowl.