I think people tend to look at advertising more if there's a "cute" little puppy or animal in it. There's definitely gotta be something there to "catch your eye" otherwise, why advertise! I don't know that it will make people buy that product any more though.
Does this count: I buy Snuggle fabric softener because of the bear...yes, I am guilty even though this isn't a "real" animal.
I do look carefully at the Humane Society commercials though and the fight against cruelty to animals!!!