The highly anticipated Puppy Bowl 2024 is just around the corner. With Dan Schachner marking his 13th year as referee, his dog named Whistle is ready to steal the limelight in what promises to be the “puppiest” event ever. The upcoming show promises a deluge of adorableness with record-breaking participation from over 130 dogs across 36 states.
Referee Dan Schachner and Whistle take on Puppy Bowl 2024
Slated for Sunday, Feb. 11, Puppy Bowl 2024 is taking the game up a notch with an increased representation from 73 shelters and rescues across the United States. “It just continues to grow and grow, and this year will be no exception,” commented Schachner.
The atmosphere will be buzzing with dogs serving as camera operators, control room executives, red carpet attendees, cheerleaders, and coaches. However, stealing the spotlight is Schachner’s new furry companion, Whistle. A recent addition to the Schachner family, Whistle will debut as the event’s first assistant referee — as per PEOPLE.
The charming Poodle mix instantly won Schachner’s heart when they first met, resulting in Schachner’s adoption of his first pet dog since childhood. Over the past decade, the referee and his family have fostered about 40 dogs, an experience that Schachner described as incredibly fulfilling and a perfect avenue to learn more about dogs and pet care.
When he stumbled upon Whistle at an adoption event organized by the Phoenix Animal Rescue in Pennsylvania, Schachner felt an immediate connection. Recognizing Whistle’s potential as an assistant ref, Schachner decided to foster him and ultimately welcomed him into the family.
Despite facing some health challenges, Whistle quickly settled into his new role, most likely spending his on-field time in Schachner’s arms — a vantage point for keeping a check on the game. Schachner believes that Whistle’s presence enhances his authority as it creates an immediate bond with the other participating dogs. “The other dogs see me with a dog, and they’re like, ‘Ah, this guy’s cool. I trust this guy,’” said Schachner.
