SID, THE corpulent British Bulldog who became synonymous with the football club for which he became the official mascot, has died.
The Western Bulldogs' favourite canine retired last year, and passed away just short of his 10th birthday.
Clad in a club guernsey, Sid appeared for seven years at Etihad Stadium home games, waddling onto the ground as the Dogs' players entered the field of play.
He was viewed as a lucky charm during the Bulldogs' unlikely run to the 2016 premiership.
It's with much sadness we mourn the passing of our beloved Sid.
— Western Bulldogs (@westernbulldogs) February 27, 2018
A regular feature at Bulldogs home games at Etihad Stadium for 7 years, Sid stood with us through thick and thin.
Will forever be a Bulldogs legend ⚪ pic.twitter.com/9xwxuiQEDK
A post by Sid's owner on the Facebook page Sid: The Retired Western Bulldogs Mascot on Monday night read: "Nine and a half years ago our world changed with the arrival of my little mate Sid.
"Over the years we have shared so many adventures, I’m honoured to have been there with him through the good times and bad.
"He loved being the Western Bulldogs mascot, he loved game day and the fans. God he loved the fans and he knew that the fans and the team loved him.
"Tonight I held his paw, kissed his wrinkled head and said goodbye to my little mate for the last time.
"Saying goodbye hurts, but I know that somewhere Sid and Rosie are together.
"I love ya my little mate, till we meet again."