ST. LOUIS — Nestlé Purina PetCare has announced the addition of two new members to the company’s c-suite. Pudim, a CavaPoo puppy from Overland Park, Kan., and Ika, an American shorthair kitten from Queens, NY, have joined Purina Puppy Chow and Kitten Chow as “chief snuggle officers.”

The parents of each four-legged “executive” will receive a $25,000 “salary” prize. In addition, in honor of National Puppy Day on March 23, Purina Puppy and Kitten Chow donated $25,000 to Greater Good, a charity dedicated to helping animals displaced by natural disasters.

The search for the chief snuggle officers started in January with more than 4,000 pets applying for the role. An independent panel selected six finalists based on “cuteness, charm and the heartwarming submission stories,” according to the company. Around 20,000 votes were cast to determine the two winners.

“We’re excited to welcome Pudim and Ika to the Purina family to help inspire pet owners everywhere,” said Eric Willis, chief marketing officer at Purina. “As our new chief snuggle officers, they will help remind us that raising happy, healthy pets starts with good nutrition, proper care, plenty of play and, as the name suggests, a lot of snuggles.” 

Five-month-old Pudim was adopted in time for Christmas. He loves playing in front of the mirror, is fascinated with hair dryers and can hunt down missing socks.

“Every day with Pudim is a new discovery,” said owner Vanessa. “He has transformed our routine, making life lighter and turning every moment into a big adventure filled with joy and cuteness.”

Eight-month-old Ika was found in a restaurant parking lot by his family.  

“We always wanted a cat but never felt like it was the right time," said owner YuFei. “As cliché as it sounds, we felt we were the chosen ones. Ika coming into our lives on our anniversary was the best thing that has ever happened to us.”

The search for the new chief snuggle officers was part of the brand’s campaign to highlight the positivity puppies and kittens bring to the lives of pet parents while also emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition during the early developmental stages of puppies and kittens.

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