There’s no NFL team having as good a start to training camp as the Cleveland Browns. Sure, install is going well, players’ conditioning is improving and coaches are learning which numbers they can call on. But, look to their record to see the real success. No, not their 1-0 preseason start but  another defining number: 442.

That’s how many dogs the Browns have helped get adopted since the team launched its Puppy Pound program in 2015, in partnership with the Northeast Ohio SPCA. The program, presented by Sugardale, enables fans to meet and adopt dogs at Browns training camp.

To mark the milestone, Sugardale donated $5,000 to the Northeast Ohio SPCA during Saturday’s practice.

 

 

“The Northeast Ohio SPCA is humbled to receive such a generous donation from Sugardale,” said Jeff Kocian, executive director of the Northeast Ohio SPCA. “Our shelter is determined to turn the lives of shelter animals around by helping them find a forever home that will love them and accept them as part of their family. Many of the animals that come through our shelter experience a lonely start to their lives, but together, we can help every pet find a loving and accepting family. We extend our deepest gratitude to Sugardale and the Browns for helping us save the lives of so many furry friends during Browns training camp. We are truly blessed to have the continued support of such wonderful partners.

“As a proud partner of the Cleveland Browns, we could not be happier to be a part of training camp, the Browns Puppy Pound and an incredible milestone for such a worthy cause,” said Mark Slaughter, vice president of sales for Fresh Mark, owner and operator of Sugardale Foods. “We love watching all the puppies find their forever homes with owners who support the great mission of the Northeast Ohio SPCA and of course, root for our Cleveland Browns.”

The Browns’ fanbase is known as the “Dawg Pound,” but maybe “Puppy Whispers” is the more appropriate moniker.