VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The big game is today, but there are some other local “athletes” who will get their moment in the spotlight on Sunday.
But it’s not for the Super Bowl in Miami—the Puppy Bowl.
Maverick and Sparkle are both rescue dogs from the Virginia Beach SPCA and they will be in this year’s 16th annual Puppy Bowl at 3 p.m. on Animal Planet.
Maverick is starting for Team Ruff, while Sparkle is playing for Team Fluff.
They are two of 96 adoptable dogs featured in this year’s game.
Maverick and Sparkle are following in some big paw prints.
In last year’s Puppy Bowl, Scooter and Ace from the same shelter played in the game.
Sparkle started her life in an outdoor pen with five other adult dogs. She's an adorable ball of white fluff who was in desperate need of care.
The SPCA said when they found her, her hair was extremely matted. She was found covered in fleas and ticks.
Sparkle has a sassy side that was born for bigger and better things. She is now living her best life, and she enjoys rolling around in a pile of toys and soft beds.
Maverick was rescued from a hoarding case where he was living with 54 other dachshunds.
He, along with 13 other puppies from the home, was brought to the shelter. The rest of the rescued pups were taken to other area shelters.
The SPCA said Maverick quickly stole the hearts of the entire staff, and they all knew he was born to be a star.
Maverick is loving his new life and enjoys being the center of attention. He is friendly and social. He is always looking to meet all the dogs and people he can.
And the best news is both pups have found their forever homes.
The Virginia Beach SPCA is encouraging everyone to join them at Smartmouth Brewing on Sunday to cheer on the pups.
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