Uga VII, Georgia’s beloved mascot who took over for Uga VI a little over a year ago, died suddenly Thursday afternoon.

He died of heart-related causes according to owner Frank W. “Sonny” Seiler. He was four years old and finishing his second season as the team’s mascot.

“We are all in a state of shock,” said Seiler. “We had no warning whatsoever.”

There will be no live mascot at Georgia’s game on Saturday but a wreath will be placed on Uga VII’s doghouse on the north sideline.

In his short term, “Loran’s Best” compiled a 16-7 record as mascot. He was first introduced Aug. 30, 2008 before the Georgia Southern game.

At 56 and one half pounds, he was second only to Uga VI as the biggest mascot in the line.

“Loran’s Best” was originally named for long-time Georgia Athletic Association personality Loran Smith.

“He was 10-3 last year which is not bad for a ‘freshman,’” said Seiler. “Uga VII was not as active or mischievous as his father but more distinguished. He realized his role when he put his shirt on. He was well-behaved and always appreciated the significance of his role.”

“This is a very sad day for the Seiler family but also for all Georgia people,” said Damon Evans, UGA Director of Athletics. “Just as his ancestors, he had captured the hearts of college football fans everywhere as the country’s number one mascot. He had been truly embraced by all those who follow the Georgia Bulldogs across the country. We will miss him dearly.”

Seiler said there were options available for Uga VII’s replacement but no final determination would be made until sometime next year.