Ripken, beloved dog to NC State and Durham Bulls fans, dies on New Year's Day

Ripken, beloved dog to NC State and Durham Bulls fans, dies on New Year’s Day

Ripken, a beloved black Labrador Retriever and friend to several Triangle sports teams, has died.

Ripken died unexpectedly on New Year’s Day after “suffering complications from a serious, undiagnosed medical condition which he sadly could not recover from,” according to an Instagram post.

Ripken was usually seen retrieving the kicking tee after kickoffs at NC State football games. He also played the role of “bat dog” at Durham Bulls games, going out to fetch bats after plate appearances for Bulls players.

“Devastated to lose this beloved member of our family,” read a tweet from NC State Athletics. “Thank you, Ripken, for bringing so much joy to Wolfpack Nation. You will be missed.”

Ripkin’s owner Michael O’Donnell told WRAL News he wanted to thank everyone for their kind words and for loving his dog like it was there own.

Ripken, named after baseball legend Cal Ripken, Jr., was a local celebrity of sorts for fans of animals and sports. He started his career in 2019 when he was three years old, often helping the Holly Springs Salamanders. He was eight at the time of his death.

Fans often gave heartfelt cheers when Ripken made appearances at games and his journeys were celebrated on national TV shows and social media, where he gained a following. In 2022, Ripken got national exposure on “The Kelly Clarkson Show.” He eventually got his own Topps baseball card.

Ripken was part of a ceremonial puck drop at a Carolina Hurricanes game this season. Ripken was recently at a Carolina Panthers game on Dec. 22 and seen hanging out with running back Chuba Hubbard before kickoff.

Ripken was the spokesdog for Sit Means Sit Dog Training, operated by Michael and Melissa O’Donnell of Raleigh. He often wore a flashy gold chain with a capital ‘R’ that got him even more attention.

Ripken also enjoyed a stint with the Savannah Bananas, who came to Durham in 2023.

O’Donnell said his family is planning a proper tribute in the near future.

Source: wral.com