Pet Helpers is proud to announce that Ladybug, a 12-year-old Chihuahua mix, will be featured in the nationally televised Puppy Bowl XXI as the event’s first-ever Senior Dog Coach. Airing on Sunday, February 9 at 2:00 PM ET/11:00 AM PT, Puppy Bowl XXI will be simulcast across Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV, Max, and discovery+, celebrating pet adoption with 142 rescue puppies from 80 shelters across 40 states and two countries.
Ladybug, a sweet, loving, and spunky senior, found herself at Pet Helpers after her owner entered hospice care. Despite the challenges of rehoming older pets, Ladybug has proven that senior dogs have just as much love—and energy—to give. Now, she’s taking her wisdom and charm to the Puppy Bowl field, coaching the next generation of adoptable pups while shining a national spotlight on senior pet adoption.
“This is an incredible moment for Pet Helpers and for senior dogs everywhere,” said Melissa Susko, Executive Director of Pet Helpers. “We’ve had a puppy in the Puppy Bowl before, but to see Ladybug take the field as the first-ever Senior Dog Coach is truly special. We’re thrilled to be part of this event again, especially in a way that highlights the love and resilience of older dogs who are so often overlooked. Ladybug is proof that age is just a number, and we can’t wait to cheer her on as she helps these puppies put their best paws forward.”
Now in its 21st year, Puppy Bowl remains the longest-running and most beloved call-to-adoption television event, spotlighting shelter pets and the organizations that help them find forever homes. This year’s event will feature a record number of adoptable pups, heartwarming “Pup Close and Personal” segments, and fan-favorite moments like the Kitty Halftime Show and Most Valuable Puppy (MVP) award.
As Pet Helpers continues its mission to find loving homes for animals in need, Ladybug’s Puppy Bowl debut is a powerful reminder that senior pets make incredible companions. Fans can tune in on February 9 to see Ladybug in action and join the conversation on social media using #PuppyBowl.
For more information about Ladybug and other adoptable pets at Pet Helpers, visit www.pethelpers.org or follow us on Instagram @pethelperssc.
