The excitement is building. Wagers are being thrown, viewing parties organized, players’ bios dissected. The annual excuse for the Super Bowl is days away: The 2019 Puppy Bowl.
The latest edition of the cuddliest contact sport will air on Animal Planet on Sunday, Feb. 3, the afternoon before that other game that some people are also tracking. Thirty-nine pups, all recruited from shelters, will face off for bragging rights. The teams will be supported by a group of baby kangaroo cheerleaders, and the halftime show will involve a field full of kittens.
Besides elevating a nation’s dopamine levels, the event raises awareness for pet adoption. Each year so far, all the players have found forever homes. Animal Planet has posted a list of the puppies’ home shelters; even though the Bowl was taped months in advance, some of the players may still be available. But if you see one that melts your heart, act quick. Puppy Bowl players that are available for adoption tend to be claimed within minutes.
How to watch the 2019 Puppy Bowl on cable
Puppy Bowl XV airs on Animal Planet on Sunday, Feb. 3. The two-hour special starts at 3 p.m. Eastern. The pre-game show begins at 11 a.m. Eastern. (But it’s available to stream now, for free, on Animal Planet’s website.)
How to watch the 2019 Puppy Bowl on streaming
The game will stream on Animal Planet’s website. To watch, just sign in with your current TV provider’s password.
If you’ve cut the cord, some streaming providers carry Animal Planet: Your Hulu Live, DirecTV NOW, PlayStation Vue or Philo subscription will allow you to partake in all the puppery.
Want to adopt a dog?
The ASPCA has a number of good resources for pet adoption on its website, including information about the NYC Adoption Center.
Petfinder’s website can also match you with adorable, adoptable dogs or cats near you. If you adopt an animal through Feb. 28, they’ll donate $1 toward charities that aid adoptable pets.
