Puppy Bowl, the beloved annual televised event showcasing adoptable puppies playing a mock football game, returns for its 21st year. This year’s event, Puppy Bowl XXI, promises to be bigger and cuter than ever before, featuring a record-breaking number of puppies and highlighting inspiring stories of resilience. Animal lovers and football fans alike can tune in on Super Bowl Sunday to witness the adorable chaos unfold.
A Paw-some Lineup of Players and Inspiring Stories
Puppy Bowl XXI will feature a staggering 142 puppies from 80 shelters and rescues across 40 states and two countries. This diverse group of canine athletes will be divided into two teams: Team Fluff and Team Ruff. Each team will be led by a pair of history-making pups. Team Fluff will be spearheaded by Julep, the first-ever St. Bernard mix to participate in the Puppy Bowl, and Smoosh, the first Pekingese. Leading the charge for Team Ruff are Mr. Pickles, a pug-Chihuahua mix from Dallas, and Tuani, a Chihuahua-German shepherd mix from Nicaragua.
Beyond the sheer number of participants, Puppy Bowl XXI shines a spotlight on inclusivity and the power of adoption. Eleven special needs dogs will be participating, showcasing their incredible spirit and athleticism. Among these inspiring athletes are Jolene, an American pit bull terrier who uses a wheelchair, and Sprinkle, an Australian shepherd mix who is both blind and hearing impaired. These remarkable dogs demonstrate that every dog deserves a loving home and can achieve amazing things regardless of their challenges. “Pup Close and Personal” segments will delve into the heartwarming rescue stories behind some of the furry football players, further emphasizing the importance of pet adoption.
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Puppy Bowl XXI poster. Courtesy of Animal Planet/Discovery
More Than Just a Game: The Puppy Bowl’s Impact on Pet Adoption
For over two decades, the Puppy Bowl has been more than just adorable entertainment. It’s the longest-running call-to-adoption television event, consistently raising awareness about the importance of giving shelter animals a second chance. The event’s heartwarming stories and playful competition have helped countless dogs find their forever homes. By showcasing the unique personalities and undeniable charm of shelter puppies, the Puppy Bowl encourages viewers to consider adoption as a wonderful way to bring a furry friend into their lives. The success of the Puppy Bowl as a platform for pet adoption is a testament to the power of combining entertainment with a meaningful cause. The event continues to inspire viewers to open their hearts and homes to animals in need.
Competition, Awards, and Canine Celebrities
While the primary focus is on promoting adoption, the Puppy Bowl is also a competition, with several coveted awards up for grabs. The ultimate prize is the “Lombarky” trophy, awarded to the winning team. Individual accolades include the Most Valuable Puppy (MVP) award, the Underdog Award, and the Krypto Super Play award, inspired by the upcoming Superman film. This year’s competition promises to be fierce, with all the puppies vying for glory on the miniature gridiron.
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Jolene, a dog competing in Puppy Bowl XXI. Courtesy of Animal Planet/Discovery
The Puppy Bowl also features a dedicated team of human participants, including the ever-enthusiastic referee, Dan Schachner. Schachner, a longtime advocate for animal adoption, has been a fixture at the Puppy Bowl for over 13 years, providing hilarious commentary and keeping the furry athletes in line. His passion for the event and commitment to animal welfare embodies the spirit of the Puppy Bowl.
Tune in for the Ultimate Super Bowl Sunday Experience
The Puppy Bowl isn’t just an alternative to the Super Bowl; it’s the perfect complement to the big game. Airing before the main event, it provides a heartwarming and family-friendly spectacle that’s sure to delight viewers of all ages. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or simply an animal lover, the Puppy Bowl is a must-see event that will leave you feeling inspired and entertained.
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Kiki, one of the dogs competing in Puppy Bowl XXI. Courtesy of Animal Planet/Discovery
Puppy Bowl XXI will air on Sunday, February 9th at 2:00 PM ET/11:00 AM PT and will be simulcast across various channels, including Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV, Max, and discovery+. Don’t miss the chance to witness this record-breaking year of adorable athleticism and heartwarming adoption stories.
