Sept. 5, 2008

SEATTLE - The University of Washington canine mascot, Spirit, has been placed on the disabled list and will be unable to attend Saturday's home football game against Brigham Young University at Husky Stadium after suffering a recent shoulder injury. It is currently unclear how long the Alaskan Malamute will be unable to perform his duties as Washington's live mascot at Husky football games.

Since last spring, Spirit has been scheduled to retire as Washington's mascot upon the conclusion of the current football season. The school expects to announce soon its plans to breed a new mascot that will represent its athletics program.

Officially named Whitepaw's Arlut Spirit of Gold Dust, Spirit made his debut as Washington's mascot in 1999. He is the 10th Alaskan Malamute to have served as the Husky mascot and leads the team out of the tunnel before every home contest. He travels the sidelines during every home game, accompanied by trainer Kim Cross and several of Cross' children - who act as the dog's handlers.