The Steel City will be well represented on the gridiron in February despite the Pittsburgh Steelers being out of the NFL playoffs.
Centaur, a mixed breed from Animal Friends was one of the pups drafted from rescue groups nationwide to play in Puppy Bowl XXI.
The original and longest running call-to-adoption TV event returns for the 21st year at 2 p.m. Feb. 9. It’s the same day as Super Bowl LIX.
Centaur was selected for Team Fluff. They go against Team Ruff in what could be the most adorable and competitive contest of the day.
The game will be simulcast on Animal Planet, Discovery Channel, TBS, TruTV, Max and Discovery+.
“Win or lose, Puppy Bowl will have the most adorable and deserving players in the game with the goal of inspiring families across the country to foster or adopt a companion animal,” Animal Friends spokesperson Cindy Cole said Tuesday night .
Player profile
Centaur is estimated to be about 8 or 9 months old. He and his three siblings, Phoenix, Griffin and Kraken, from an unexpected litter arrived at Animal Friends on July 15.
“The pups’ mother was a stray who was taken in by a good Samaritan who fostered the pups with their mother until they were old enough to be admitted to Animal Friends,” Cole said. “Upon the puppies’ arrival at Animal Friends, our admissions team decided to name the pups after mythical creatures — hence their awesome and unique names. After a short stay at our shelter and with a volunteer foster, Centaur soon met his match.”
Centaur was described as a “lovable pup” who is more laid back than his litter mates. He enjoys playing with toys and cuddling on laps.
Cole said Centaur is fitting in well with his new family and fur brother, Jake.
“Centaur also loves his new spot on the roster for Puppy Bowl XXI,” Cole said. “Of course, everyone at Animal Friends is cheering for him. But we know that from our shelter, to finding a loving family, to starring in the Puppy Bowl, Centaur is already a winner.”
More information about Animal Friends’ programs and animals is available by calling 412-847-7000 or visiting thinkingoutsidethecage.org.
