San Francisco mourns the loss of one of its most beloved celebrities: Alex the Great, a 28-pound Flemish Giant rabbit who captured hearts across the Bay Area as the San Francisco Giants' "Rally Rabbit" and a pioneering therapy animal at San Francisco International Airport. The four-year-old rabbit died Monday morning after complications from cancer treatment, leaving behind a legacy that touched thousands of lives.
Alex underwent surgery on July 17 to remove his second cancerous tumor, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Despite initially surviving the procedure, he was moved to the Intensive Care Unit at UC Davis Veterinary Hospital due to complications. ABC7 News reported that Alex suffered multiple cardiac arrests during treatment and "just couldn't pull through."
From Rescue to Rally Rabbit
Alex's remarkable journey began when owners Kei Kato and Josh Row rescued him from a meat farm in Modesto in December 2020. The Washington Post detailed how Alex attended his first Giants game at just four months old in April 2021, quickly becoming a viral sensation. The timing couldn't have been better—with pandemic-related capacity restrictions at Oracle Park, Alex could ease into the unfamiliar sounds and crowds gradually.
"Rally Rabbit," as he became known, made Jumbotron appearances and greeted fans as they entered the ballpark. According to the Chronicle, after his ballpark debut went viral on April 21, 2021, the San Francisco Giants announced that Alex had a lifetime welcome at Oracle Park. The team reported going 40-7 with Alex in attendance since 2021.
Pioneering Therapy Animal Program
Alex's impact extended far beyond baseball. In 2022, he joined San Francisco International Airport's "Wag Brigade," a pioneering therapy animal program that has operated since 2013. Simple Flying noted that the program, organized by the San Francisco SPCA, features 22 dogs, cats, a rabbit, and even a pig, all trained to provide emotional support to stressed travelers.
As the program's only certified therapy rabbit, Alex underwent rigorous training through the San Francisco SPCA's Animal Assisted Therapy program. The Points Guy reported that therapy animals at SFO must pass stringent evaluations, including remaining calm when someone circles them in a wheelchair or pulls at their ears. Airport officials made special business cards for Alex that he would "autograph" by chomping the corners.
A Growing Trend in Therapy Animals
Alex's success reflects a broader trend in airport therapy animal programs nationwide. The Washington Post documented that at least 50 airports across the country now feature therapy animals, with programs originating at San Jose International Airport in 2001 following the 9/11 attacks.
Jennifer Kazarian, SFO's guest services manager who runs the Wag Brigade, told Axios that therapy animals at SFO are "the unicorns of therapy animals" due to their ability to handle chaotic airport environments. The program has proven effective at reducing traveler stress, with research showing that petting dogs increases oxytocin levels while decreasing cortisol.
Celebrity Status and Community Impact
Alex's fame extended well beyond San Francisco. MLB.com noted that he was likely the only certified therapy rabbit in the country, with appearances extending to NBA arenas, NASCAR events, and even Outside Lands music festival, where he met pop star Chappell Roan. His Instagram account amassed over 55,000 followers, and he served as a brand ambassador for companies including Purple Mattress and Psycho Bunny apparel.
Beyond entertainment, Alex provided genuine therapeutic support to those in need. His owners lived near Family House, a nonprofit providing temporary housing for children receiving treatment at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital. The Chronicle reported how Alex regularly visited young patients, including one girl undergoing chemotherapy who would request his presence during her stays.
Final Days and Community Support
Alex's health struggles began in May when he underwent emergency surgery at SoMA Animal Hospital to remove his first cancerous tumor. Though cleared to attend Giants games by June, his condition deteriorated. Before his final surgery, his family organized a meet-up at Mission Rock for fans to give him "good luck cuddles," KRON4 reported.
San Francisco Giants CEO Larry Baer told ESPN, "We remember him well for his surprise frequent visits to the ballpark. We remember the comfort he brought those who loved him and the joy he brought so many."
Continuing the Legacy
Row and Kato plan to honor Alex's memory through "Bunny Cafe SF," a planned establishment at Ghirardelli Square where rescued rabbits will provide comfort to customers while also being available for adoption. The proceeds will support rabbit rescue organizations. "I don't know if we can ever have another bunny the way that we love Alex," Kato said, "But at least we can help other bunnies out there."
Alex's death has prompted an outpouring of grief from the San Francisco community. San Francisco International Airport posted on social media: "we love Alex so much. His energy and love will be missed by everyone here at SFO."
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