Ohio has some new star athletes to celebrate and they are of the four-legged variety. Two spirited sibling puppies from the Humane Society of Greater Dayton will represent the Miami Valley and Ohio as a whole in this year’s nationally televised Puppy Bowl, airing Sunday, February 8, at 2 p.m.
Derby and Summer, sibling terrier mixes, will take the field on opposite teams while helping shine a national spotlight on the importance of adoption. This marks the Humane Society of Greater Dayton’s fourth year participating in the Puppy Bowl. Tune in, cheer loud, and help us make Dayton proud as we root for Derby and Summer on the Puppy Bowl field.
Meet our canine athletes
Summer
- Breed: Terrier Mix
- Team: Team Fluff
- Fun Fact: Summer’s sweet personality and playful energy make her a natural scene-stealer wherever she goes.
Derby
- Breed: Terrier Mix
- Team: Team Ruff
- Fun Fact: Derby’s confident, fearless approach to play makes him a perfect fit for Team Ruff.
Derby and Summer’s Backstory
Their story began with uncertainty. Derby and Summer were part of a litter of six puppies found abandoned along the side of a road and brought to a local shelter by a Good Samaritan. With the shelter at capacity, all six puppies were transferred through a partnership with the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, giving them the opportunity for a second chance. The puppies arrived at the Humane Society of Greater Dayton at approximately three months old and were quickly placed into foster homes, where they could relax, socialize, and receive the care young puppies need to grow and thrive.
With time, patience, and love, each puppy began to flourish. Their personalities emerged, their confidence grew, and what started as a frightening beginning turned into a hopeful new chapter. Ultimately, we are happy to report that Derby, Summer and their four siblings all were adopted into loving forever homes. From once being abandoned and scared, Derby and Summer now find their stars shining bright on center stage in this year’s Puppy Bowl.
The Humane Society of Greater Dayton is proud to cheer on Derby and Summer as they represent the community on such a meaningful national platform. Their journey from rescue to the Puppy Bowl highlights the resilience of shelter animals and the life-changing impact of adoption.
Where to Watch
Tune in to cheer on Derby and Summer during this year’s Puppy Bowl, which will be simulcast on Animal Planet, Discovery, TBS, truTV, HBO Max and discovery+ on Sunday, February 8 at 2pm est. Whether you’re rooting for Team Fluff or Team Ruff, these Dayton pups are sure to steal the show and hearts across the country.
