Arriving just in time to help humans emotionally recover from one of the “ruffest” years yet, Animal Planet’s annual adoption extravaganza, PUPPY BOWL XVII, returns Super Bowl Sunday (Feb. 7) at 2 p.m. ET/11 a.m. PT, on Animal Planet. The furry face-off sees Team Ruff and Team Fluff, comprised of 70 puppies from 22 shelters, go paw-to-paw for the coveted CHEWY “Lombarky” trophy.
Television’s cutest sports competition kicks off with a “tail-gate” – the PUPPY BOWL XVII: PRE-GAME SHOW – at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT, featuring “aww-nalysis” of the furry matchups. Then, the three-hour event commences as competing canines vie to break their 3-3 series tie, with fan-favourite “rufferee” Dan Schachner calling puppy penalties for the 10th consecutive year. Additionally, viewers can expect a kitty halftime show and star-studded appearances by Kristen Bell and Valerie Bertinelli.
Ahead of the big game, Toronto Humane Society representative Hannah Sotropa reveals this year’s Canadian PUPPY BOWL XVII ambassadors, and how the shelter has adapted to these unprecedented times.
1. Who are the adorable, adoptable Canadian PUPPY BOWL XVII ambassadors this year?
This year we have six Sheppard mixes, all under two months old, that are named after different brunch items as their mother’s name is Brunch: Croissant, Florentine, Crepe, Hollandaise, Parfait, and Mimosa. 
2. How has the Toronto Humane Society been affected by COVID-19?
When lockdown hit, the majority of our public services moved to an online platform. Some of these programs included our digital adoptions program, virtual training classes, and the launch of new initiatives such as the pet parent support network and telemedicine! The interest in adoption has been remarkable. Since closure, we have seen over 11,000 adoption applications.
3. What are the benefits of adoption, in comparison to purchasing from a breeder?
Adoption is a beautiful experience, and there are SO many benefits! First, you are not just helping one animal, but many in-need! When you adopt an animal, you open up a kennel to other animals in need. Second, when you go to a reputable organization, you get the opportunity to be a part of an involved process, whereas sources such as Kijiji are more of an exchange. Plus, when you adopt an animal from a reputable organization, you’re not supporting an unethical, factory-style breeding facility! At Toronto Humane Society, we run a temperament assessment on all pets before they are made available for adoption. They also receive any necessary medical treatments before going to their forever homes.
4. How does the adoption process work?
The process now exists entirely online! The appointment calendar automatically opens interview slots up 48 hours in advance, on a rolling basis as time passes. Once you’ve had your interview, you move forward with a meet & greet with the foster parent, animal, and adoption agent. Then, you get to pick up your animal at the shelter!
5. Which team do you think will win PUPPY BOWL XVII?
Personally, I think all featured puppies are winners, but here is what my dog, MacKenzie, predicts:
