NEW YORK — Penthouse Magazine announced today that Erica Ellyson is the 2008 Pet of the Year.

Chosen by Penthouse magazine readers, staff members, and online subscribers alike, Ms. Ellyson, January 2007’s Pet of the Month, was one of twelve Pet finalists vying for the title in Penthouse magazine’s annual competition.

“Erica is smart, sexy, and a true Southern belle. As soon as she appeared in Penthouse as our Pet of the Month, she captured the hearts of our readers, as well as our staff, and she’s been extremely popular with Penthouse fans ever since,” says Managing Editor Barbara Rice Thompson.

“We are delighted to have her as our Pet of the Year, and we are sure she’ll continue to charm everyone she meets with her enticing looks and captivating personality, not to mention her irresistible sex appeal.”

“It took me a while to believe I was the Pet of the Year,” says Erica. “When I found out I said, ‘Really? Are you sure?’ about five times. It was the best feeling ever, once I finally got it through my head!”

The 5’7″, 23-year-old hazel-eyed brunette is a Mississippi native. Originally raised in Pascagoula, she now resides in San Diego, California, where she is working toward a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture at the Newschool of Architecture and Design.

“I’m so grateful to my fans and friends for their support, and I can’t wait to make new ones,” says Ellyson. “I’m excited to get out there as the 2008 Pet of the Year and be a representative of the Penthouse brand and family.”

Erica’s Pet of the Year pictorial is featured in the March issue of Penthouse. The magazine is available online and at newsstands February 19, 2008.

Additionally, Ms. Ellyson will host a blog on www.penthousemagazine.com , so that readers can keep up with her promotional event schedule and her Pet of the Year happenings.