EDWARDSVILLE, Ill. (August 19, 2025) — Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) Athletics is proud to announce a new partnership with Hawthorne Animal Hospital, designating the local veterinary leader as the Official Veterinary Provider of Eddie the Cougar, SIUE's beloved mascot.
This renewed partnership celebrates not only a commitment to the well-being of Eddie, but also a rich shared history between SIUE and Hawthorne Animal Hospital. In 1966 when the University made the decision to choose the Cougar as the official mascot, in February of 1968, SIUE welcomed a live cougar serving as its mascot & Hawthorne Animal Hospital provided expert veterinary care. Today, nearly six decades later, the legacy continues with a renewed focus on excellence in animal care and community collaboration.
"Several team members at Hawthorne Animal Hospital and I are alumni of SIUE. We are excited about this opportunity to partner with the athletics department at SIUE to help raise awareness of the great programs available at the school," commented Owner, Dr. Paul Myer. "Hawthorne Animal Hospital believes pets deserve 24/7 care and we work hard to make this available to the pet families of the metro east and southern Illinois."
"We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with the Myer family and Hawthorne Animal Hospital," commented Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Andrew Gavin. "Both SIUE and Hawthorne Animal Hospital have long standing ties to the community and this partnership is providing a platform to tell that story through our games, facilities, and our digital presence."
Through this partnership, Hawthorne Animal Hospital will work closely with SIUE Athletics to support Eddie's health and wellness needs throughout the academic year. The collaboration also reflects both organizations' shared values of supporting and spreading awareness in the Metro East.
For more information about SIUE Athletics, visit siuecougars.com. To learn more about Hawthorne Animal Hospital, visit hawthorneanimals.com.
