I vote NO!

[MarylandAG]

To this as our new mascot!
http://www.healthgene.com/canine/images/retriever_golden.jpg

Give me this instead!!!!!
http://www.canadasguidetodogs.com/customergraphics/boxerphoto/boxer.jpg

This is in reference to a memorandum that was put out, the expect introducing the new mascot in the fall!

[Conan]

What can we do to show our disgust?

[jacruzer01]

I still say Collie.

http://www.kennels.co.uk/images/P.RoughCollie.jpg

[Burnetaggie99]

:mad:

[Burnetaggie99]

If your going to have a native dog to Texas then the Blue Lacy should get a look but I still like the Collie.

[jagowar]

i didnt get the memo.... what was said in it?

[SLIM75126]

BLUE LACY WOULD BE COOL:gig:

[jacruzer01]

Reveille (Collie Breed) has been the mascot since 1966, thats 42 years, why change it? If it aint broke don't fix it.

I think it is a VERY BAD idea to change the breed.

[Pumchavas28]

For those who might not know what a Blue Lacy looks like...

http://texasbluelacydogs.com/sitebuilder/images/Sissy-in-Blue-Bonnets_edited-1-499x330.jpg

Kinda cool with all the Bluebonnets... :)

Personally I'd rather stick with the Collie... JMO.. But if they did switch... the Lacy wouldn't be a bad idea...

[Thisjeffguy07]

We should definitely stick with what has worked... I vote collie

[MarylandAG]

Give me a sec, I'll link the memo.

[Thisjeffguy07]

somebody should put up a poll

[Pumchavas28]

somebody should put up a poll and let Aggiefans.com decide what it should be....

FIFY... :gig:

[MarylandAG]

Here is the link to the memo....from TexAgs

http://texags.com/main/forum.reply.asp?topic_id=1145320&forum_id=5

My angry face is a bit much, I know someone on here has a Golden, didn't mean to offend. I think they should put this to a vote rather than have a committe decide for everyone.

[Thisjeffguy07]

Hollis has a golden... it's a good dog, but I don't see a reason to change our mascot

[KCAggie]

Collies are not my favorite dog in the world, but why change it? A collie has been a symbol for A&M for many many years and it should not be changed.

[DCAggie]

Where did this come from? Seems out of left field, and I'm not even a fan of the collie. Also, what is collie like? If it's a Sheltie as the guy says, I doubt they'd be suited to the exposure and interaction with all the people.

I do think the collie is a bit random for the school mascot. Something like the Lacy would be cool. Something a little more Texan (which wouldn't include a Golden or a Sheltie).

[aggie1997]

I really don't understand why this is even being discussed. What are the reasons to even think about a change? Is there something wrong with the mascot being a Collie? I know in the past we have had some with health issues, but that is possible with any pure breed dog. Just don't understand why they would want to change one of the classiest symbols that represents our University.

[Thisjeffguy07]

I think they originally chose the collie because it's a prestigious looking dog... just in case somebody isn't aware, the original dog was a mut

[DCAggie]

I thought someone just donated a collie at some point. I could be wrong about that. And I'm sure its prestigious looks were motivation as well.

Even so, it seems like an arbitrary tradition, especially since the original was a mutt as you point out. Was it some kinda cow dog mix? Some of the pictures look kinda like that.

[MarylandAG]

I think there have been some behavioral issues with the Collie, i.e. the current Rev has tried to bite people. I'm not 100% sure of this. I have heard there are behavioral issues with the breed, again I don't know for sure, but I think these things are what has lead to the proposed change. This is not out of left field the committee was formed after it was annonced that the current Rev would retire after the spring semester, we just hadn't heard from the committee.

I am partial to Boxers, as you can tell:D , have had two of them, fantastic dogs! But since people are throwing around their crazy ideas, if I can't have a boxer, give me one of these dudes....we would be unique that is for sure!
http://cache.eb.com/eb/image?id=37206&rendTypeId=4

[shaft-john shaft]

get a poodle and name it ''gomer''

bada binggggggg !

just kiddin'

[DCAggie]

Hadn't heard about the committee. I think you're right about the general issues w/ the breed (collie), and I've heard that that's been a recent problem. Could be rumor or urban legend, but who knows.

I think everyone's gonna be partial to certain breeds which will make any change hard, unless there's some good reason for it aside from vague standards. Basically, I mean something like the Lacy that is the state dog, or something else that seems like a natural fit w/ Texas or with A&M (a herding dog for instance since it's an ag school). Just thinking aloud here. Basically, kinda like schools up north have huskies, and UT has a coon hound, etc. I also liked that UMaryland, Balt. Co. had the Chesepeake as its mascot, but then I'm a duck hunter.;)

[txags92]

I think we ought to go back closer to tradition and pick a mutt from a local shelter...

Collies don't tend to be the brightest dogs in the world (they are bred for other traits). My grandmother used to have them and they always had hip problems and not the nicest temperment. I would rather see us with more of a working dog like a border collie or a australian shepherd type. But i still think a mutt would be even better.

[Pumchavas28]

Wasn't the Blue Lacy once considered a Mut????? ;) While it doesn't look as Majestic as a Collie.... Wouldn't be all that bad to have the state Dog as the Mascot... :)

[zrf2002]

I think there have been some behavioral issues with the Collie, i.e. the current Rev has tried to bite people. I'm not 100% sure of this. I have heard there are behavioral issues with the breed, again I don't know for sure, but I think these things are what has lead to the proposed change. This is not out of left field the committee was formed after it was annonced that the current Rev would retire after the spring semester, we just hadn't heard from the committee.

I am partial to Boxers, as you can tell:D , have had two of them, fantastic dogs! But since people are throwing around their crazy ideas, if I can't have a boxer, give me one of these dudes....we would be unique that is for sure!
http://cache.eb.com/eb/image?id=37206&rendTypeId=4


i dont like the idea of not having a collie for what they are referring to as our "mascot".... first of all, rev is not a "mascot"... our mascot is AGGIES! i dont have any preference to the collie, other than rev has been a collie for many many years.... but, if they are going to change the breed of rev, i think it should be a dog like this or a boxer or some other "military" looking type dog.... i think a "military" type dog would go along well with Sarge or Ol' Sarge designs aTm uses for a lot of their marketing stuff....

[Burnetaggie99]

Blue Lacy is the offical dog of Texas and was founded in Burnet TX long ago.

[MarylandAG]

zrf, I would have never thought about the military angle, but the logic is excellent, at least to me it makes alot of sense.

For the record, if they chose to go back to a mutt, I would be fine with that t00, since that is how the traditon started. Change is a'coming, guess we shall see.

[MarylandAG]

Burnett, I'm not familar with the breed, tell me abou them. Size? Temperment? etc. What are they used for?

[Conan]

Reveille (Collie Breed) has been the mascot since 1966, thats 42 years, why change it? If it aint broke don't fix it.

I think it is a VERY BAD idea to change the breed.

This is literally word for word what I said months ago. Thank you Jacruzer :rep:

[KCAggie]

I wouldn't be against bringing back the mutt. Play off the 12th man and have a different dog for every football game. The dog could be rescued from the animal shelter and then retired after the game to a good family. I think that would be pretty damn awesome and I am sure the waiting list to get the dogs would be pretty long.

[ftaggie09]

Here it is for those that don't want to click the link

1 May 2008



MEMORANDUM

TO: Texas A&M Students, Faculty & Staff

FROM: Dr. Dean L. Bresciani, Vice President for Student Affairs

SUBJECT: Update Regarding Selection Process for New Aggie Mascot


Reveille VII, the current keeper of Texas A&M’s decades old mascot tradition, will formally retire later this month at the conclusion of the spring semester. As many of you know, shortly after her retirement plans were announced, a 16-person study committee was formed with the support of President Elsa A. Murano to make recommendations on the type of dog that might best serve as the university’s new mascot. Those invited to participate in the committee included students, faculty, staff, former students and representatives of the Corps of Cadets, Athletics and the Federation of Texas A&M Mothers’ Clubs. The committee also included a Texas A&M veterinarian who is a nationally known animal behavior expert.

The group’s first and foremost charge: ensure that we responsibly continue the long-standing tradition of having an official mascot that is an integral part of the Aggie Family – attending classes and living in a home-like environment on campus where the mascot will be loved and nurtured. The committee recently completed its work, and after further consultation with President Murano and a broad spectrum of senior campus leaders and advisors, I am pleased to share with you our plans on how we will proceed:

Essential Characteristics

First, regardless of the type of dog selected to serve as the University mascot, she should possess the following characteristics:

1. Medium to large size – This body type is more consistent with the symbolism of a University mascot and is more suitable to her ability to perform the duties associated with the role.
2. Healthy – Even at a reduced level of activity, the demands of the position require that the mascot be in good physical condition. Furthermore, any genetically related health concerns should be properly prescreened by a veterinarian.
3. Outgoing personality (upbeat) – One of the endearing qualities of a mascot is its approachability and positive demeanor.
4. Likes people and is at ease in crowds – It is important that the University mascot portrays a genuine affection for people of varying ages in one-on-one and large group settings.
5. Not afraid of noise – Loud and frequent sounds are associated with a number of the University’s traditions; therefore, it is critical that the mascot be at ease in these environments.
6. Not highly reactive – Given the nature and frequency of interaction with the mascot, it is important that she not respond in a defensive or aggressive manner when faced with quick movements or sudden motion.
7. Positively motivated – The mascot should respond to instruction based on affirmation and encouragement.

Recommended Mascot

Second, in order to prescreen for essential characteristics, establish an appropriate level of training, and maintain the important symbolism of a University mascot, Reveille should be either:

(1) A mature (approximately 1½ years of age or older) female with a Collie-like appearance (not unlike Reveille II), service dog training and the essential characteristics noted above.
OR

(2) A mature female (approximately 1½ years of age or older) with service dog training, essential characteristics noted above, and the physical attributes and noble appearance consistent with the role of the University mascot (not unlike a Golden Retriever).

We are not inclined to consider a puppy at this point due to the following factors: 1) the length of time it takes to properly train and transition a puppy into this role – approximately 18 months; 2) the inherent uncertainties of the personality of a puppy; and 3) past experiences with this approach not achieving desired results.

Training and Oversight

Third, we recognize that steps have been taken to better manage the environment in which Reveille functions; however, given ongoing concerns for her health and behavior, other changes may be needed. Therefore, we will ask that additional professional training protocols and oversight be established, implemented and periodically evaluated, including a transition period to help Reveille successfully acclimate to and carry out her role as the mascot of Texas A&M University. The Vice President for Student Affairs will have responsibility for assuring that these protocols are developed and monitored.

As we move forward in our effort to select a new mascot, we will immediately begin an extensive nationwide effort to identify and evaluate potential canine mascots, using the guidelines detailed above and with assistance from Texas A&M veterinarians. I anticipate that we will identify the best suitable mascot and put forward a recommendation by the end of the summer. Therefore, I am hopeful that we will introduce the new mascot to the Aggie Family this fall.

President Murano and I would like to commend the members of the committee for a job well-done and thank them for their tireless efforts while serving in this important capacity.

We look forward to introducing Reveille VIII to the Aggie Family!

[Mezentius]

As a descendent of the Lacy family there is a long running debate among the older generation of folks that ran these dogs. My grandfather claims they brought the breed as is from Kentucky, but his brothers disagree. My dad had them growing up and has nothing but good things to say about them.

Burnet folks in Marble Falls would disagree with you on where they were founded ;) ...they arose whole from the granite sand I say.

Doesn't matter, they're a cool breed with a very unique history, but as a herding/working dog are prone to some of the same behavior issues that you see in Collies...

In that regard I have no issue with having a collie or a Lacy or any type of dog that is not mascot specific or just plain mean (bulldogs-we aren't Georgia or fighting type dogs for more than obvious reasons).

[Burnetaggie99]

Marble Falls folks always trying to steal Burnet thunder. Most intense Rivals. Burnet /Marble Falls Football games are all out war. I say either keep the Collie or go with the Blue Lacy.

[Mezentius]

hahaha I knew the Marble Falls mention would get blood boiling. Its intense for sure and I'm from Austin, but having family ties to it gives me good people watching opportunities for sure.

[DCAggie]

I wouldn't be against bringing back the mutt. Play off the 12th man and have a different dog for every football game. The dog could be rescued from the animal shelter and then retired after the game to a good family. I think that would be pretty damn awesome and I am sure the waiting list to get the dogs would be pretty long.

Would be some good publicity as well, I bet.

[DCAggie]

i dont like the idea of not having a collie for what they are referring to as our "mascot".... first of all, rev is not a "mascot"... our mascot is AGGIES!

I thought our nickname was the Aggies, but the mascot was the collie, or Reveille particularly.

[PinetarAg]

.
Here is the reason why Rev is being retired and a change of breed is being considered.

Rev's handler got bit by her and he decided to go to the hospital, by law with dog bites the hospital has to notify the authorities as to what happened and if it happens again the dog has to be euphemized (one bite rule)....now this is a bit extreme in the case of Rev. but by the letter of the law A&M upper brass could be held personal liable if there was a second incident and the she would have to be take by animal control.

So that is the back story....the story on change of breed comes because with the whole biting thing they need to retire her ASAP....students actually formed a student organization to bring back a mutt like the first Rev,....some of the former students raised hell saying keep it a Collie. Dr. Murano wanted nothing to do with it, so she put DR. B in change of finding a committee and deciding what to do.....now the change of breed stems form the mutt organization...but with a mutt you can not guarantee the dog would be any better....so it is coming down to change the breed to something more subtle...not that collies aren't but they are not subtle when put under stress and with large crowds....it is a herding dog and 82000 people at a football game and people running on grass...the dog's natural instinct is to herd...couple that with the immense amount of traveling and appearances...adding to the stress, collies like this one would literally go crazy...that came from the vet on Dr. B's Committee...so that is why considering a change of breed.

I can tell you it will not be a mutt again other than that I can't say........yet

[shaft-john shaft]

this is one funny thread.

[Agnlaw]

Mastiff-Bull Mastiff

[CoolaidWade]

This is the first I have heard of this but I approve. I have always disliked having a Collie as a mascot. They are just not that friendly as a dog. There are much better choices.

I personally would like a golden retriever or one of similar personality. And for those who say Collie are tradition, they are not. The first Rev was a mutt.

And also I hope this is the start for getting hot cheerleaders on the sidelines.

[aggie07]

I am still for the collie. It's just that if we wanted to change the mascot.... now is too late.

[legelegel]

BLUE LACY WOULD BE COOL:gig:

I think this true Texas breed has no chance unless you can find a deaf one, because the breed is very sensitive to loud noise and should not be kept near loud environments.

[Dustin00whoop]

First choice would be not to change the breed.

However, if they did I say they go with a Neopolitan Mastiff.

http://www.sidyboysfoolin.com/NEAPOLITAN5.jpg

3rd choice would be a German Shepherd;.

http://www.pups4sale.com.au/german_shepherd_glenbala_03.jpg

[WesTxAg]

First choice would be not to change the breed.

However, if they did I say they go with a Neopolitan Mastiff.

3rd choice would be a German Sheppard;.
hey newbie,

post is worthless without...;)

[spazdout]

Mastiff-Bull Mastiff

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/images15/Bullmastiff16montholdbrindledoodoo.JPG

[The Massacre]

with the support of President Elsa A. Murano


just the first thing on the list of things that Murano is going to fock up at Texas A&M University. believe it.

[Burnetaggie99]

:popcorn:

[legelegel]

Like most giant breeds of dogs, the Neapolitan Mastiff is not particularly long-lived, averaging 7 to 9 years and has some significant health concerns.

First choice would be not to change the breed.

However, if they did I say they go with a Neopolitan Mastiff.

http://www.sidyboysfoolin.com/NEAPOLITAN5.jpg

[TexAg77]

The blue lacy is one ugly dog. I'd prefer a German Shepard over that. As for the Collie temperament, this Rev was the first one I can remember that had a problem with trying to bite people.

[Burnetaggie99]

I think they look good. They almost look like a Mouse Grey Weimaraner. I have 2 Grey Ghost. Hell lets make it a Weimaraner. ;)

[legelegel]

I think they look good. They almost look like a Mouse Grey Weimaraner. I have 2 Grey Ghost. Hell lets make it a Weimaraner. ;)

If you like the Weimaraner ...

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/5783/9781421624648ldm4.jpg (http://imageshack.us/)

[Burnetaggie99]

:gig: Cousin to my Weims. Really like them too. My next hunting dog will be a Vizsla. I'm a Weim man but Vizsla is almost like splitting hairs thats how close they are to each other.

[Burnetaggie99]

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l283/Burnetag99/weim3.jpg

[Burnetaggie99]

http://i99.photobucket.com/albums/l283/Burnetag99/weim_lucy.jpg

[Burnetaggie99]

My other 2 kids:gig:

[legelegel]

I have two Vizslas (10 and 12) and I have never seen either of these noble dogs do this:

http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/4551/89755612dw3.png (http://imageshack.us)


The Vizsla was used in [the] development of other breeds, most notably the Weimaraner and German Shorthair Pointer breeds.

[Burnetaggie99]

:gig:

[legelegel]

Vizsla - The Hungarian Pointer - Animal Attractions TV

[Conan]

.
Here is the reason why Rev is being retired and a change of breed is being considered.

Rev's handler got bit by her and he decided to go to the hospital, by law with dog bites the hospital has to notify the authorities as to what happened and if it happens again the dog has to be euphemized (one bite rule)....now this is a bit extreme in the case of Rev. but by the letter of the law A&M upper brass could be held personal liable if there was a second incident and the she would have to be take by animal control.

So that is the back story....the story on change of breed comes because with the whole biting thing they need to retire her ASAP....students actually formed a student organization to bring back a mutt like the first Rev,....some of the former students raised hell saying keep it a Collie. Dr. Murano wanted nothing to do with it, so she put DR. B in change of finding a committee and deciding what to do.....now the change of breed stems form the mutt organization...but with a mutt you can not guarantee the dog would be any better....so it is coming down to change the breed to something more subtle...not that collies aren't but they are not subtle when put under stress and with large crowds....it is a herding dog and 82000 people at a football game and people running on grass...the dog's natural instinct is to herd...couple that with the immense amount of traveling and appearances...adding to the stress, collies like this one would literally go crazy...that came from the vet on Dr. B's Committee...so that is why considering a change of breed.

I can tell you it will not be a mutt again other than that I can't say........yet

That's still really stupid. These problems shouldn't occur, and the one bite rule doesn't apply. The rationale of the one bite rule was that domestic animals by definition were not injurious, and therefore liability could be predicated only on the defendant's knowledge that a particular animal had a propensity to behave in manner that was injurious to humans. You'd have to argue A&M is liable for a future Collie because they knew Collies in particular were dangerous when put under the stress of being a mascot. Although I can understand that the University doesn't want to get sued by someone, I think they should understand the pros and cons to the situation. I think a select group isn't understanding the volume of the new breed scenerio. It will have a huge effect on a lot of loyal fans, former students and those still attending. It's actually a really big deal.

This is a really bad idea, and it won't change anything legally for the school. If another dog bites, then A&M is still in the same scenerio. The rewards are small, but the sacrafice is huge. Unless they truly believe after several dogs that Collies are all-of-a-sudden more threatening, I think it's a big mistake.

I will never support this.

[Loftin]

I think the committee just wants us all to believe the next Reveille won't be a collie. That way, when they do announce that Reveille VIII will be a collie, they can act like the heroes who saved a tradition. Ironically, they are only saving it from their own threats.

[Thisjeffguy07]

The blue lacy is one ugly dog. I'd prefer a German Shepard over that. As for the Collie temperament, this Rev was the first one I can remember that had a problem with trying to bite people.

I think they have had problems in the past... collies don't like loud noises

[Conan]

I think the committee just wants us all to believe the next Reveille won't be a collie. That way, when they do announce that Reveille VIII will be a collie, they can act like the heroes who saved a tradition. Ironically, they are only saving it from their own threats.

This is something I thought about too. Like BB suggesting he was a hero for saving Kyle Field. You can't be a hero if you're the one who suggests the unfavorable change. We'll see what happens.

[KCAggie]

I have two Vizslas (10 and 12) and I have never seen either of these noble dogs do this:


http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/4551/89755612dw3.png (http://imageshack.us)


Thanks for posting this pic....Now this thread needs a NSFW tag. :mad: :mad: :mad:

[Agnlaw]

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/images15/Bullmastiff16montholdbrindledoodoo.JPG

Exactly. Plus Bull Mastiff's have great oral hygeine!!!

YouTube - KSS-Bullmastiff-Gala

[12th man fan]

The original mascot was a mutt. It should have stayed that way.

Collies are temperamental and prone to illness, as are many pure- (and over-) bred dogs.

I would understand the concerns about having a dorky looking mutt on the sidelines, but there are plenty of handsome ones to be found.

[WesTxAg]

Vizsla puppy:gig:

http://i177.photobucket.com/albums/w201/ekinggill12/riley.jpg

[85swhorns46]

quick question when are ya'll going to find out what your new mascot is going to be or did I miss that boat.

[Gravy]

So many better ones.....

A mutt would be most appropriate for the original Rev and student body
The Irish Setter is Maroon
A collie has been the tradition
Ridgebacks are just bad ass
A cowdog would be good against tu

sooooo many options.......

[MarylandAG]

Here you go 85, seem like they hope to introduce the new mascot this fall, I guess new coach regime, new mascot!

I anticipate that we will identify the best suitable mascot and put forward a recommendation by the end of the summer. Therefore, I am hopeful that we will introduce the new mascot to the Aggie Family this fall.

[BAGGIO]

i dont care what it is, as long as it thinks its people..

[Conan]

The original mascot was a mutt. It should have stayed that way.

Collies are temperamental and prone to illness, as are many pure- (and over-) bred dogs.

I would understand the concerns about having a dorky looking mutt on the sidelines, but there are plenty of handsome ones to be found.


Look, the tradition of Texas A&M is Rev as a Collie. I don't think that it's been a serious concern, and the Collie breed has been loved and appreciated here for many years. My father was in Corps in the early 70s and there were no concerns then.

Unlike you, I'm no expert on Collies. That being said, I know that they are very intelligent and highly motivated working animals. They are known to be gentle, loyal and above all one of the most trainable canine breeds. My Aunt had Collies while I was growing up, and one dog named Sandy was one of the greatest pet/companion you could ever have.

The Collie breed shouldn't be in question. Not only is the breed a great choice, but also a very unique choice. The Collie has been a symbol of this institution for many great years, and there is no reason to take that away.

Texas A&M must do a great job in selecting a new dog. The animal must be perhaps much better trained and docile than old Rev VIII. Other than that, it's a big mistake and in my opinion a tragedy to abandon our tradition which is by no means problematic.

[Vlyrock]

If they're going to change Reveille...why not just get rid of a live dog on the sideline altogether? What's the point of force feeding us something else?

Maybe an inflatable sarge (like Big Red) who runs up and down the sideline... :sad: I'm being facetious. I for one don't support a change and don't think they'll do it.

[zrf2002]

how can anyone say a collie is not what Rev should be after looking at this pic?????

http://b4.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/00727/45/43/727043454_m.gif

that is my oldest daughter with Rev b/f her first Christmas... we had her pic taken with Rev instead of santa clause.