Rhode Island dog born without front legs stars in 'Puppy Bowl'

(WJAR) — One-year-old Joey was showing off for the camera on Sunday. He took the field on Animal Planet's "Puppy Bowl."

The pup and his owners weren't shy about the big day, which was recorded in October.

"In my eyes, more important than the Super Bowl, that other game that's going on," Cathy Larson, one of Joey's owners said.

Joey was born on Christmas without his two front legs. He spent time at Vintage Pet Rescue in Foster before he found his forever home in Tiverton.

"I cried as soon as I saw him, because it is just pure love. He is just such a loveable little guy," Larson said.

Now Joey is showing the world that his disability doesn't stop him. He is raising awareness for Vintage Pet and other dogs like him who are staying in shelters.

His family even held a puppy watch party to celebrate.

"He is determined and he is a strong little guy. He doesn't know he is any different, so he doesn't understand why everyone is all over him, but he has been a great sport," Larson said.

The pup does use a special wheelchair sometimes, but his owners said he often wants to be just like the other dogs.

But that can be hard when you're Rhode Island's next celebrity.

"MVP all they way, and no matter what he is our MVP," she said.

Joey's family is hoping to raise money for Vintage Pet Rescue through his appearance.

People can follow the pup's journey on his social media paged called The Adventures of Joey and Friends.