According to the university, the nearly 14-year-old Bluetick Coonhound made his debut as a loyal ambassador for the Vols in the 2013 football season.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A beloved University of Tennessee mascot, Smokey X, has been diagnosed with cancer, according to a release from the Institute of Agriculture.
According to the university, the nearly 14-year-old Bluetick Coonhound made his debut as a loyal ambassador for the Vols in the 2013 football season. Smokey X recently had a biannual appointment, which included routine diagnostic imaging. However, a small mass was discovered on his kidney.
The institute said the sampling of the mass revealed a renal carcinoma of the kidney.
“In true Smokey fashion, he demonstrated his unwavering loyalty to the Vols even during his CT scan,” the university said. “As he emerged from anesthesia to the notes of ‘Rocky Top,’ Smokey rose to his feet, a testament to his indomitable spirit and love for the Volunteers.”
The institute said that the oncology service at the veterinary college examined Smokey X to determine the best care plan for providing pain relief and comfort through his final days. They said that while it is difficult to predict exactly how much time he has left, the goal is to “help him enjoy each day with the best quality of life.”
At home, Smokey X continues to enjoy his time playing with his two boys, including Smokey XI, and eating his favorite salmon treats, the university said.
“He has brought so much joy and pride to our university community over the years, and we are committed to providing him with the highest level of care and compassion,” Paul Plummer, dean of the veterinary college, said. “Our veterinary team is dedicated to ensuring that he remains comfortable and surrounded by love as he continues his journey.”
The Hudson family, who’ve cared for Smokey X as their own through the years, said they appreciated the heartfelt gratitude and outpouring of love and prayers from Big Orange Nation.
Celebrating UT’s top dog: Smokey!
Those wishing to follow along with Smokey X’s journey can do so on the UT College of Veterinary Medicine’s website.