ALEXANDRIA, Va. (DC News Now) — Though the Washington Commanders won’t be playing in the Super Bowl, there’s still a way to support local players competing in the big game.
Abigail and Maya will be playing for Team Fluff in the 21st annual Puppy Bowl, hailing from Alexandria-based Operation Paws for Homes.
The nonprofit rescues dogs from rural, overcrowded shelters in South Carolina, North Carolina and southern Virginia.
Labrador retriever mix Abigail has come a long way from her roots in Mississippi to Animal Planet’s beloved Puppy Bowl. She was described as a “pup who brings the chaos, the joy, and a whole lot of zoomies to the game! She’ll run circles around Team Ruff – literally!”
Ever the loyal athlete, she’ll be taking a break from her forever home in Forest Hills, Md. to compete in the game.
Abigail’s teammate Maya, who’s a Doberman Pinscher/American Staffordshire Terrier, was rescued a little closer to home in rural West Virginia. Like Abigail, she’s energetic, friendly and fun.
Though now living a peaceful life with her new family in Brabelton, Va., Maya will take on Team Ruff for the Lombarky trophy.
Each year, the Puppy Bowl also includes a special honor for the MVP (Most Valuable Puppy) and the Underdog Award, which will go to the pup that surprises viewers with an outstanding performance.
You can watch Puppy Bowl XXI on Sunday, Feb. 9 at 2 p.m. on Animal Planet.
Operation Paws for Homes will also host watch parties from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Strangeways Brewing in Richmond, Va. and Hysteria Taphouse in Pasadena, Md.
