It all started with Joku the chicken performing "America the Beautiful" on a keyboard. And then, asserting order was one of the referees, a rescue sloth. Human referee Dan Schachner was on hand, too, as he has been for the past seven years. Also on the field at one point were bunnies and pigs, all making friends. Performing commentary was, as always, Meep the Bird.

Team Ruff led 34–28 at the half and led as late as 47–45. One of the highlights for Team Ruff was Ana's running the length of the field for a touchdown. It was Team Fluff's Bear, a multiple scorer, who took home the MVP award.

A total of 90 puppies from 48 shelters across the U.S. and from Mexico and Puerto Rico. Kaleb Junior was one of two dogs rescued from Puerto Rico; the other was Archer. Both were subsequently adopted by New York families. Another dog was rescued from Houston. And for the first time ever, a Mexican entry was featured: Mango (also adopted by someone from New York). In fact, all dogs were eventually adopted.

One of the more eye-catching participants was Mr. Wrigglesworth (right).