UPDATE 10/13/15: BEVO XIV, the Texas Longhorns mascot since 2004, has been diagnosed with bovine leukemia virus and has retired effective immediately. He will rest comfortably at the ranch where he lives.
"BEVO XIV is a special animal," said Ricky Brennes, executive director of the Silver Spurs, the group responsible for BEVO's care. "He truly embraced his role and loved engaging with people at games and special events, and at his ranch – where he will continue to live - he was clearly the leader of the herd."
The Silver Spurs will begin the search for the next BEVO immediately.
Wishing @BEVO_XIV a happy & restful retirement on his ranch after bringing so much goodwill and pride to @UTAustin. pic.twitter.com/pUzpeRofqT— Greg Fenves (@gregfenves) October 13, 2015
ORIGINAL STORY 10/7/15: Texas Longhorns mascot BEVO XIV will not be attending this weekend's Texas-OU Red River Showdown, due to a life threatening condition.
The University of Texas Silver Spurs Alumni Association, the organization that cares for BEVO, says he will stay in Austin to be monitored by veterinarians instead of making the trip to Dallas.
"We are carefully monitoring BEVO’s condition at this time and will update the public as we find out more about his condition," said Silver Spurs Executive Director Ricky Brennes, in an emailed statement. "The safety and well being of BEVO XIV is always our primary concern and therefore he will not be attending the game on Saturday."
The current BEVO has been the team mascot since 2004.
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