Mystery over fate of famed Japanese dog resolved

[March 02, 2011]  TOKYO (AP) -- Scientists have settled a decades-old mystery by naming a cause of death for Japan's most famous dog.

The story of Hachiko is immortalized in Japanese children's books and was made into two movies. The dog became legendary for his loyalty by waiting for his owner every day at a train station 10 years after his master died. He was considered such a hero that his organs were preserved when he died in 1935. Now, scientists say the organs prove how Hachiko died. He was rumored to have swallowed a chicken skewer that ruptured his stomach. But veterinarians examining his innards said Wednesday that Hachiko had terminal cancer. The legend was turned into a 2009 Hollywood film starring Richard Gere -- a remake of an earlier Japanese movie. [Associated Press] Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.