Posted: January 26, 2009, 5 a.m. EST
If you need an alternative to the Super Bowl this Sunday, Feb. 1, or just want to get pumped up for the big game, look no further than Animal Planet’s “Puppy Bowl V.”
“Puppy Bowl V” features two teams of puppies who will mimic the plays usually reserved for the NFL as they take over Animal Planet Stadium and compete for the coveted title of MVP, or Most Valuable Puppy. Commentator Harry Kalas, a renowned sportscaster, will be on hand to make sure viewers don’t miss any of the action. Highlights from previous Puppy Bowls also will be featured.
The event will be refereed by Andrew Schechter. “I think we all have a calling,” he says. “Some of us are firemen; some are policemen. I am a ref. I referee little, cute, adorable puppies pretending to play football for people’s enjoyment. It’s a dirty job, but someone has to do it.”
The festivities will begin with Pepper the Parrot performing his own version of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Viewers also won’t want to miss the “Kitten Halftime Show,” which will feature a variety of kittens doing what they do best: playing!
The participating puppies were recruited from regional shelters, which include the Pawfect Match Rescue in Holly Springs, N.C., and the SPCA of Anne Arundel County in Annapolis, Md. All of the dogs are adoptable. Viewers who are interested in adopting one of the puppies can visit PetFinder.com for more information.
Animal Planet’s “Puppy Bowl V” will air on Feb. 1, 2009, at 3 p.m. EST/PST.