Last summer, something truly special happened in downtown Hillsborough. Janice Smith, owner of the Big Little Dog Bed Company, opened her home to a foster dog through Hope Animal Rescue named Dolly. What began as a simple act of kindness quickly turned into a life-changing story: Dolly gave birth to a litter of puppies right there in Janice’s home.
Fast forward just a few months, and two of those puppies have become unexpected stars.
Lewis (left, below) and his sister Charlie were selected to appear in the beloved Puppy Bowl, the Animal Planet tradition that has become one of the most joyful parts of Super Bowl Sunday. Airing February 8, the Puppy Bowl celebrates rescue animals, second chances, and the pure fun of watching puppies tumble across the field in the name of play.
One of those pups, Lewis, never left Janice’s heart — or her home. He’s now her adopted dog, a daily reminder that fostering can change lives in both directions. Charlie, meanwhile, headed north and was adopted by a woman in New York, proving that Hillsborough’s impact stretches far beyond Orange County.
Janice even accompanied Lewis to the taping in New York, witnessing firsthand the behind-the-scenes magic of this nationally loved event — a rescue story going from a quiet Southern town to the bright lights of television.
But the celebration isn’t staying on screen.
On February 8, from 1 to 5 pm, the community is invited to a dog-friendly Puppy Bowl Watch Party at Eno River Brewing in Hillsborough, hosted in partnership with Hope Animal Rescue. It’s shaping up to be one of the most heartwarming events of the season.
Guests can expect raffle prizes, a dog-themed photo booth, games, and plenty of tail-wagging cheer. Best of all, 10 percent of all sales during the event will benefit Hope Animal Rescue, supporting the next round of animals waiting for their own happy ending.
And yes — Lewis and Charlie will be there to meet fans.
In a world that can feel heavy at times, events like this remind us of something simple and powerful: love, community, and second chances still matter. Sometimes, the best way to lift spirits isn’t through big headlines or grand gestures — it’s through puppies, laughter, and neighbors coming together for a cause.
So this Super Bowl Sunday, consider trading a little screen time for some real-life joy. Come cheer for Lewis and Charlie, support local rescue work, and soak up the kind of fun we all need right now.
Because sometimes, the biggest wins aren’t on the football field — they’re in the lives we save, one puppy at a time.
Eno River Brewing
329 Allison Street (also listed as 329 Eno Mountain Rd), Hillsborough, NC 27278 🇺🇸
This dog-friendly brewery along the scenic Eno River is the host location for the Puppy Bowl Watch Party on Feb. 8, and you’ll find local craft beers, outdoor space, and plenty of community vibes there.
Story content courtesy of Big Dog Little Bed
