EAST LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – East Lansing has a new top dog, and Michigan State University’s iconic Wonder Dog tradition is getting a fresh twist.
Meet Cindy Lou, the first female dog to take on the role of “Zeke the Wonder Dog,” the frisbee- snatching, crowd-pleasing staple of Spartan Stadium. After decades of male Labradors owning halftime, MSU has officially handed the leash to a leading lady.
Built for the big stage.
MORE NEWS: Icy Conditions Delay Shepler’s Ferry to Mackinac Island
The Wonder Dog program dates back to 1977, when a Labrador named Zeke first took the field to chase frisbees and quickly became part of the game-day experience. Since then, generations of “Zekes” have kept fans entertained with high-flying catches and near-flawless timing.
The newest “Zeke” was born in May 2019 and has been training behind the scenes for years, working alongside Jim and Terri Foley, her owners and handlers, and even serving as an understudy of sorts. According to trainers, she’s quick, disciplined, and locked in once that frisbee leaves a hand – a “controlled explosion” who knows exactly when it’s go time.
Saying goodbye to a fan favorite.
Her debut comes on the heels of a tough loss for Spartan fans. Zeke IV or “Buckshot,” the previous Wonder Dog, died earlier this year after nearly a decade of performances that turned him into a campus celebrity. Known for his precision and personality, Zeke IV wasn’t just part of halftime – he was halftime for many fans. His passing left a noticeable void, both on the field and in the stands.
New era, same Spartan spirit.
Still, Cindy Lou isn’t trying to be Zeke IV – and that might be exactly the point. Her arrival signals a continuation of the tradition, not a copy-paste version of it. MSU officials have framed the move as both honoring the past and embracing something new.
And her reviews? Strong. She catches. She performs. She connects with the crowd. In short, she’s doing exactly what a Wonder Dog is supposed to do – just with a little extra girl power mixed in.
Cindy Lou’s first appearance came at MSU’s Football Spring Showcase on Saturday, April 18, giving fans the opportunity to have a meet-and-greet and get photos taken with her.
The name may still be Zeke – but the game has officially gone to the dogs… and this time, it’s a good girl leading the pack.
