ST. LOUIS — Purina Puppy Chow and Kitten Chow today named their newest "chief snuggle officers.”
Bowie, a Dalmatian puppy from Watsonville, Calif,, and Cashew, a Domestic Shorthair kitten from Wyoming, N.Y, were the winners of the Chief Snuggle Officer contest.
From thousands of applications, Bowie and Cashew rose to the top of consumer votes, with each now earning a $25,000 "salary" as an honorary brand ambassador. In addition, a shelter in each winner's city will receive a $10,000 donation, all part of the brands' mission to give puppies and kittens the best start possible.
Bowie and Cashew will champion proper nutrition, growth and lots of play. Their main responsibilities? Setting the standard for top-tier snuggles and reminding everyone just how much joy pets bring. The ideal candidates showcased a strong track record in comfort delivery, cross-functional cuddle collaboration and consistent performance in high-stress situations. And while prior executive experience wasn't required, Bowie and Cashew proved to be natural leaders.
Bowie joined a family that had always dreamed of having a Dalmatian. Her arrival brought joy and hope at a particularly trying time.
"Our 3-year-old son has had an incredibly difficult few years since being diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis. He has endured more than 10 endoscopy procedures, countless doctor's appointments, and more challenges than any little boy should have to face," said Bowie's owner, Kim Bonnema. "We are hopeful that, with the right training, Bowie may one day be able to become a service dog for Blake. But for now, Bowie has already given him something incredibly important: comfort, companionship, laughter and unconditional love."
In honor of Bowie's win, a $10,000 donation will be made to the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter.
Cashew got his start in a dairy cow feeder. Rescued as a tiny kitten by his owner, the now 5-month-old domestic shorthair quickly won the hearts of his new family – humans and dogs included.
"We always thought we were dog people until we discovered Cashew living in a dairy cow feeder. Just as we spotted him, he fell into a tight spot, and we had to fish him out. He went home with us that day and hasn't left our side since. He fits into our family so well that his favorite playmates are his dog siblings, and he loves going camping with all of us," said Cashew's owner, Danielle Meyers.
In honor of Cashew's win, a $10,000 donation will be made to the Wyoming County SPCA.
