Canine star Uggie leaves paw print in Hollywood

Uggie, the canine star of the Oscar-winning film "The Artist," Monday added his paw print alongside other Hollywood greats in a ceremony marking his official retirement.

The Jack Russell Terrier added his mark to the famous forecourt at Grauman's Chinese Theater, where other stars of the silver screen such as Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable have been immortalized.

The trick-performing, life-saving pup barked excitedly at the crowds, and wowed the crowds who chorused "he's so cute."

"Everybody says I'm a great trainer, I don't think so, he's just a great dog," said his trainer Omar Von Muller, announcing that Uggie, born in 2002, was hanging up his dog collar for good.

Now Uggie is getting too old for the rigors of the movie set, and is suffering from a neurological disease.

"On behalf of the city of LA I salute his career (and declare) June 25th 2012 Uggie Day of the city of LA," said Tom LaBonge, a local council member.

Uggie posed for pictures after the ceremony with other doggie stars "Lassie" and "Rin Tin Tin," after a little bit of inappropriate public sniffing first.

A biography is being written of Uggie's real-life stories include touring with a dog talent show, roles in movies including "Water for Elephants" and "The Artist" and his signing as a spokesdog for Nintendo.

AFP