San Fernando Valley : Dog That Ran for Mayor Dies at Age 13

Farley, the German shepherd mix who captured the hearts of many when he ran for honorary mayor of the foothill community of Sunland-Tujunga, has passed away. “He was 101 in dog years,” by Dan Skywalker’s calculations. “He barely outlived George Burns,” said Skywalker, one of the dog’s best friends.

Farley, who was 13 in human years, died Thursday in the backyard, Skywalker said.

Farley lost his bid for the symbolic post of honorary mayor in July to a telecommunications executive, but was appointed honorary mascot--the town’s first--in September.

“He left his mark in many places,” said Skywalker, who along with Farley’s owner, Michael Lucas, organized the political pooch’s campaign. Lucas said Farley’s campaign started as a joke but turned serious as people became aware of the friendly dog’s candidacy.