Welcome, August! This blessed month ushers in at least two exceptionally important events: National Dog Day and the start of the college football season. Here at Mirador & Stovall at River City, we want to make sure you’re fully prepared for both. Get to know the top five best dog mascots in college football, then come celebrate your good dog with us!

Handsome Dan, Yale University

Yale University – among a few distinctions – smartly became the first college in the U.S. to adopt a live animal mascot with their crowning of Handsome Dan in the early 1890s. With his rugged good looks and stately manner, Handsome Dan the English bulldog graces the field in a display of timeless style.

Smokey, University of Tennessee

Perhaps no dog mascot embodies the spirit of its school and town better than Smokey the bluetick coonhound captures the University of Tennessee and Knoxville. He is Rocky Top in dog form. Smokey X importantly leads the football team onto the field and playfully trolls the opponent with runs through the end zone after touchdowns. Plus, he isn’t afraid to mix it up a bit if that means helping the team win.

Uga, University of Georgia

While you can find more creative mascot names out there, you won’t find a dog mascot with more force of personality than Uga. The University of Georgia’s English bulldog has a strong following, and for good reason: Uga X, who has been with the team since 2015, boasts an impressive record of 54-15. You might think you love Uga, but in order to be a top-tier fan, you’ll have to buy his WallArt.

Jonathan the Husky, University of Connecticut

Pairing a cool demeanor with his striking beauty, and holding it down with a hearty human name, Jonathan the Husky immediately gives UConn extra credibility when he trots onto the gridiron. This dog has bona fides. His name honors Jonathan Trumbull, the last colonial and first state governor of Connecticut. He has his own email address (send your fan letters to jonathantheuconnhusky@gmail.com). It’s Jonathan the Husky’s world, and we’re just living in it.

Reveille, Texas A&M University

Any conversation about dog mascots that commands respect has to include Texas A&M’s rough collie Reveille. The First Lady of Aggieland – or Miss Rev, if you know her well – bosses around her mascot corporal on campus, demanding educational opportunities, tasty meals, and cozy nap spots. If you doubt the devotion to her legend, consider that all of the deceased Reveilles are buried under the school’s football field with a scoreboard that has the Aggies winning for eternity. We salute you, Miss Rev.

Well Played, Pups!

Come and celebrate National Dog Day and the new football season with the dog mascot in your life on Thursday, Aug. 26. Stop by the office to pick up a treat for your pup; while you’re there, enter for a chance to win a doggie gift basket. And make sure to check out the Mirador & Stovall at River City blog to stay updated about all our fun resident events.