The American Collie died Thursday after being hospitalized at the Small Animal Clinic at the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, according to a Texas A&M University statement. She was 12 1/2 years old.
The university did not specify why Reveille VII needed emergency surgery, but Dr. Stacy Eckman, the veterinarian who had cared for Rev. VII's medical needs for the past two-and-a-half years, said the retired mascot had been treated for several years for arthritis, as well as other conditions.
University and Corps of Cadets officials say plans for a memorial service have not yet been made, but they will take into consideration the fact that most students will not return to school until the fall.
Texas A&M mascots are placed in the daily care of the Corps of Cadets' Company E-2. Reveille is considered "the first lady of Aggieland" and the highest ranking member of the Corps.
Since being retired, Reveille VII had been living with Tina and Paul Gardner, who reside in College Station. He is a 1966 Texas A&M graduate.
"Having Reveille VII with us for five glorious years has been one of the greatest things to happen to us during our 46 years of marriage," Mr. and Mrs. Gardner said in a statement requested by university representatives. "Besides our son, Todd, and his family, wife Stacey, and our three precious grandchildren -- Avery, Addison and Adam Gardner -- Reveille VII was right up there in our hearts and eyes."
The university's current mascot, Reveille VIII, also is an American Collie.
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