Every sport needs a mascot: The Riot Dog of Greece

I guess when rioting becomes the national sport as it seems to be in Greece, it’s only natural to have a mascot.

A mystery dog has been turning up at every major demonstration in Athens going back to 2008. As you can see in the video below, he looks healthy, happy, and in control of the situation. He even has his own Facebook page.

"I've seen him many times on TV," wrote one admiring blogger. "He doesn't seem to get scared of tear gas, explosions, petrol bombs and people screaming all over. He actually seems to enjoy himself a lot!" Source

There is disagreement over whether the dog is named Kanellos or Louk or Theodorus. He remains a dog of mystery, but he does seem to be taking the side of the rioters.

If Riot Dog had two more heads, we might think he is the incarnation of Cerberus, the dog from Greek mythology who guarded the gates of Hades and let no one leave. Hm...

He is certainly a brave little dog, showing up without a gas mask, body armor, Molotov cocktail, club, or even a rock to throw. It isn’t clear whether he is a true anarchist with strong ideological beliefs or if he just thinks his pack is just having a fun party.

Comments

[YesBiscuit!]

Eat the rich!

[Lynne]

That's pretty incredible. I don't even like the children to horse play around the dog let alone riot.

[Clive]

Amazing dog!

Got a very sad letter today from a friend in Athens - wouldn't like to be caught up in any of that at all!

[Wayne]

For dog lovers: this is a beautiful tribute written and sung by my sister Kathy about her friend Shaman, set to photos. Kathy and Shaman, her first dog, were deeply connected. Many of you know how that feels. http://www.kathymarshallmusic.com/shaman/

[Becky]

I did see that on the news. That is pretty amazing

[Jan]

Adam, (or whoever you are) Please leave a correct email address for any future comments. You seem to have some misconceptions.

[jackie]

he'll be having a great time till some one whacks him with a club or shoots him...

[Tony]

Really Rowdy Rebellious Riot Dog, wonder howe he knows when & where there's going to be a riot. Maybe he has a Twitter account???

[Tammy]

I saw this story on Rachel Maddow's show last week. It's quite amazing I think!! :)

[Prime Rate]

That's what I love about dogs: always want to be where the action is.

[Gucci Shoes]

Nice post. I really liked it..