Athens Dog Names

In 2010, the streets of Athens came alive with protestors. The anti-austerity protests were sparked by the Greek government's move to cut public spending and increase taxes. The country's debt crisis had everyone on edge, so many citizens started to protest. The protests usually started peacefully but often turned violent. Huge clashes between protesters and police occurred when the Greek parliament voted to accept the EU's austerity requirements. Interestingly, such unrest spurred many stray dogs who called Athens home to join in the protests. 

The press noted the first rioter dog named Kanellos who joined the marches even while the city of Athens was set on fire and burned for four nights. Theodore was another young dog that also took up the cause and joined the rioters. However, one white and gold dog named  Loukanikos took center stage during the riots in Athens. The dog was widely photographed at the many street protests. The pooch seemed to dislike the police and was not afraid to hold his ground against them. Even when the tear gas would explode around the canine rioter and his human counterparts, Loukanikos did not retreat. 

Many called Loukanikos, "Loukie" for short. The pooch was so prominent in the news that Time Magazine named the pooch, 'Person of the Year,' and his image graced the cover of the magazine. 

It was often wondered if Loukie understood the difference between the police and the protestors. Undoubtedly, the dog would fearlessly attack the police during the riots. More than likely, Loukie just sided with the 'underdog.' The canine hated seeing anyone getting attacked or hurt. The police in Greece at that time were known to be especially brutal. Many rioters were attacked, and Loukie would spring to action to protect those he perceived were being abused or beaten unfairly. 

Nowadays, Loukie's image can be seen throughout Athens on many street murals. The canine riot dog attained star status and many considered the dog a hero. In 2014, Loukie passed away. The dog had been adopted by a family after the riots. According to his owners, Loukie passed away quietly in his sleep on the sofa. His heart just stopped beating. His owners stated that his system had sustained damage from all the tear gas he inhaled and the brutal assaults and kicks from the policemen. He was buried on top of a hill beneath an old growth tree that overlooks Athens.