Elke Behrens, a devoted mother and Rancho Mirage resident, set out with a simple but powerful vision: to start a business that allowed her to spend more time with her children while creating something meaningful for others. The result was Cuddle Paws, a family-run company that specializes in soft, whimsical animal-shaped body pillows— designed not just to delight, but to heal.
“I always loved the idea of something that mimicked a cuddle or a hug,” Elke shares. “It needed to be more than just cute—it had to bring real comfort.”
That’s exactly what Cuddle Paws delivers.
These long plush animals—measuring up to 47 inches— aren’t just adorable, they’re thoughtfully designed to provide back, neck, hip, and sleep support for both children and adults. They’re body pillows infused with the love and care of a family that knows just how much a comforting touch can mean—especially in times of need.
Elke’s inspiration has always come from her children, who, at ages 6 and 3, constantly inspire new designs. Their joyful energy fuels the brand’s creativity. Her husband, Mike Behrens, brings a vital presence behind the scenes. With an MBA from Pepperdine and
a background as a former financial advisor at Morgan Stanley, Mike’s business acumen helps guide the growth and sustainability of the company. “It’s truly a family effort,” Elke says.
Cuddle Paws isn’t just a hit at home—it’s touching lives across the community and beyond. In December, Elke and her family took part as a Community Sponsor for the Santa Magic event at The Gardens on El Paseo. Their booth sat beside Santa and Mrs. Claus, offering photo ops and hands-on cuddles with their plush buddies. “Seeing the way kids’
faces lit up was incredible,” Elke remembers. “It was confirmation that the concept was really working. There’s a sensory aspect to Cuddle Paws that brings genuine comfort and joy to all ages.”
That impact became even clearer through the heartfelt stories shared by customers—parents whose children won’t go to bed without their Cuddle Paws buddy, families who use them to ease travel anxiety, and kids overcoming fear of the dark with their soft companions by their side. Elke beams. “It’s such a joy to see and hear the positive feedback. We really are making hearts smile… one cuddle at a time.”
That mission extended even further in March when Cuddle Paws partnered with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles for their Make March Matter campaign. A special limited-edition penguin plush, stamped with the CHLA logo, was created for the cause, and a portion of the proceeds from March sales were donated directly to the hospital. “It was such an honor to contribute,” says Elke. “We wanted to give back and support children and families who are going through unimaginably difficult times.”
Elke’s belief in the healing power of Cuddle Paws became personal when her father was hospitalized at Eisenhower Health in Rancho Mirage. “He was in pain. He couldn’t rest, and the hospital pillows just weren’t enough,” she recalls. “So I brought him a Cuddle Paws plushie, and it changed everything. It supported his neck and back. He said it was the first time he finally found comfort.”
It was a powerful moment of clarity: this wasn’t just a child’s toy—it was a tool for healing. Elke now hopes to expand Cuddle Paws into local hospitals, clinics, and senior care centers throughout the greater Coachella Valley. “It’s time to grow—and give back—right here at home,” she says. “We want to support local families, just like we did for my dad.”
Cuddle Paws continues to sell online through Amazon and their Shopify site, but Elke is especially passionate about building new partnerships in her own community. Whether it’s a child in treatment, an elderly patient in recovery, or anyone in need of a little extra support—Elke hopes Cuddle Paws will be there to offer a soft hug to anyone when it’s needed most.
To learn more, partner locally, or order your own snuggly source of comfort, contact Elke directly at 310-683-2250 or email [email protected] Visit the Cuddle Paws store on Amazon and use promo code RANMRI10 to get a 10% discount!
