Puppy Bowl XXII Highlights Senior Dogs
In a fresh twist for this year’s Puppy Bowl XXII, the event is not solely focusing on lively pups; it’s also shining a spotlight on senior canine companions. Scheduled for broadcast on February 9, the Puppy Bowl will feature a special halftime match that showcases the charm of older dogs through Team Oldies and Team Goldies, reminding potential adopters of their worth and love.
Expert Insights on Dog Adoption
Victoria Schade, the head dog trainer for the show, emphasized that while the appeal of puppies is undeniable, the realities of raising one can be challenging.
“Many people fall for the cute puppy phase without recognizing the responsibility involved. Older dogs, however, often provide a more relaxed experience,”
Schade noted.
Event Overview and Purpose
This year’s event will feature 150 canines, representing 72 shelters from across the continental United States, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands. The Puppy Bowl has become an integral counter-programming event against the Super Bowl since its inception in 2005, where furry competitors score touchdowns by crossing designated goal lines while carrying toys. The participating puppies are divided into two entertaining teams: Team Fluff and Team Ruff, with each player boasting playful nicknames and skills such as a signature “end zone dance.”
More than just a delightful spectacle, the Puppy Bowl promotes a significant cause—animal adoption. Joseph Boyle, the content head for Discovery Channel, expressed his belief in the show’s role as a platform for animal advocacy, especially for neglected senior dogs.
“The message of the Puppy Bowl is crucial, as it highlights the needs of animals who might not have many opportunities for adoption, particularly the older ones who often get overlooked,”
he explained.
Viewership and Impact on Shelters
With a notable increase in interest over the years, the Puppy Bowl has garnered impressive viewership, from nearly 6 million in its first year to around 12.8 million last year. In contrast, the Golden Globes recently attracted 8.66 million viewers. This surge in popularity has proven beneficial for animal shelters, particularly smaller organizations that struggle with marketing their adoptable pets. Mallory Kerley, the marketing director at Muddy Paws Rescue in New York City, mentioned that the show allows viewers to engage with various breeds and personalities, fostering a connection to adoptable dogs in local shelters.
Challenges in Pet Adoption
Despite the uptick in adoptions experienced during the pandemic period, recent trends indicate a slowdown, as families contend with financial pressures.
“People facing economic hardship are understandably hesitant to take on the financial commitment of a pet,”
Kerley pointed out.
The Unique Appeal of Senior Dogs
Despite challenges, senior dogs in the Puppy Bowl bring their unique energy, according to Schade, who recently welcomed a young pup into her home to befriend her older dog.
“Senior dogs have a wealth of experience; they might move a little slower, but they definitely bring strategy and thoughtfulness to the game,”
she remarked.
Caring for older dogs has numerous advantages. Many are already house-trained, accustomed to being left alone, and might know basic commands like ‘sit’ or ‘stay.’ This aspect has its appeal for individuals or families that may not have the time or energy for a rambunctious young puppy. However, Schade cautions that shelter environments can often misrepresent a dog’s true personality owing to the stress of the crowded surroundings, stressing the importance of a decompression period post-adoption.
Additionally, common misconceptions regarding older dogs, like the belief that they can’t learn new tricks, are debunked by Schade.
“With the right training methods, older dogs are more than capable of learning throughout their lives,”
she affirmed.
Looking Forward to the Event
As the Super Bowl approaches, Kerley faces a delightful dilemma: her organization has puppies participating on opposing teams in the Puppy Bowl.
“We’ll just have to root for all of them! It promises to be the cutest day on television,”
she laughed.
Viewers can enjoy the Puppy Bowl at 2 p.m. Eastern Time (11 a.m. Pacific), available on various platforms, including Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, and truTV, alongside streaming options on HBO Max and discovery+.
