Puppies aren’t the only faces you’ll see at the Puppy Bowl! Every year, the players are cheered on by a group of cheerleaders, a role that has been fulfilled by a host of other adorable animals like piglets, hedgehogs, and penguins. Halfway through the two-hour program, viewers are treated to the much anticipated “Kitty Halftime Show.” During this featurette, the puppy players clear the field, and an elaborate stage is overrun by show-stopping kittens who play with the toys, lights, and environment that is provided for them.
The production of the Puppy Bowl is a long and carefully planned ordeal, which takes months to organize and execute in order to provide two important things: the cutest sport on television, and a safe, healthy environment for the stars. Veterinarians are brought in to examine each puppy player, kitten performer, and all other furry faces on the show before filming. Everyone is given plenty of breaks from the field, and the special care of a personal handler to make sure all of their needs are met. There’s no doubt that every furry face you see on your TV screen is treated like a real pup-star on and off camera.