DeKALB — NIU’s live mascot, a Siberian Husky named Mission II, will have a reduced number of appearances for the foreseeable future due to difficult allergies.

The announcement was made Friday on Mission II’s various social media accounts, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

“I (Mission II) wanted to let all of woo know that I will be continuing to limit my number of appearances due to difficult allergies,” the announcement read. “Fortunately, I have a great team of doctors, family, and friends to care for me during this challenging time. Even though I’m cutting back, I will still be at specific University events which include home football games and the new Mission’s Grove.”

Mission’s Grove is a new event set to debut before Thursday’s home football game against Eastern Illinois University. Attendees will be visited by Mission II at the event. Mission’s Grove will open before Thursday’s game, NIU’s home game against Vanderbilt University on Sept. 17 and the 115th Homecoming game against the University of Toledo on Oct. 8.

While Mission is expected to be in attendance for Thursday’s game, visits with the dog will be shorter to ensure that Mission II remains comfortable. Kickoff for NIU vs. EIU is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday.