Should the University of Georgia's beloved bulldog mascot be made out of metal instead of fur? That's what one animal rights organization wants.

Desiree Acholla with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, said that instead of replacing UGA VII with a real bulldog, the university use an animatronic dog -- or rely solely on a costumed human mascot.

She says bulldogs are prone to certain health issues and the continued inbreeding only makes things worse.

"The breeders of the University of Georgia mascot have specific qualities that are only acceptable for a mascot: large heads, specific colorings. This type of pure lineage is really only available through constant inbreeding," said Archolla.

But one UGA alum in Marietta says PETA is barking up the wrong tree.

"Oh my gosh, I've always admired them (PETA), but I don't think too much of that idea. That's just extreme if you ask me. Those Seiler's (who breed the UGA mascots), they treat them just like human beings and they are human beings to them," said the alum.

Archolla says if nothing else, they asked the UGA to consider using a bulldog rescue.

"Knowing these health risks, we would hope that the University of Georgia would solely focus on using a human mascot in a costume who can be visible and active during the entire event. For most football games, when Uga is not paraded down the sidelines, he's panting in his little doghouse on top of an icebag," said Archolla.

How is a using a rescue dog any different?

"Well, we're talking about a lesser of two evils. Perpetuating, and that's what I'm trying to say - that breeding dogs and cats is always irresponsible and cruel," said Archolla.

A spokesman for the University of Georgia says school officials will look into the PETA request.