Contributed by Tricia Johnson
Four adorable puppies from Troy-based animal rescue Green Dogs Unleashed will be featured on Animal Planet’s “Puppy Bowl” airing Sunday, Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.
Glaze, Pongo, Ridley, and Bunny will be representing Green Dogs Unleashed and Fluvanna County in the frolicsome competition. Puppies from opposing teams score goals by carrying a toy into the end zone.
The Animal Planet annual event has gained quite a following over the nearly two decades since it first aired, and has served to raise awareness about animal rescue. Thanks to competitors from GDU, it also raises awareness about the adaptability and adoptability of special needs animals. This year, three of GDU’s teammates are hearing-impaired; one of them is also vision-impaired. This doesn’t slow these “pawsome” competitors down one bit.
Be sure to tune in and root for Bunny, Glaze, Pongo, and Ridley – and take a moment to visit GreenDogsUnleashed.org for more information about this local special-needs animal rescue. Photographs curtesy of Animal Planet.
Note: In the interest of full disclosure – the author of this piece adopted a hearing-impaired English setter from GDU this summer. Archie has brought us love and laughter, and a deeper understanding of how wonderful special needs animals can be.
