After a ‘ruff’ day, there’s nothing better than coming home for a cuddle with your favourite canine pal. Tail wagging, they’re always happy to see you and the stress of the day seems to just melt away!

Sound familiar…? Well what about if you could bring your dog to work? Apart from the obvious potential for doggie ‘accidents’ beside your desk, with the right procedures in place (think litter boxes, water bowls, and regular walking breaks… see more under ‘pawthorisation required’) there are a number of pawsitives for well-behaved dogs in the workplace.

Some studies have shown that:

• Playing with a dog can not only help us to cope with stress better but also helps to reduce stress by up to a third, by reducing the cortisol levels in the body (the stress hormone).
• Having a dog in the office may even improve staff morale and interpersonal interactions between colleagues. Who can resist coming over for a pat and chat!
• A canine colleague may even help to lower blood pressure and heart rate (even when stressed).
• Having dogs in the office promotes a more relaxed and enjoyable workplace. Walkies anyone?

Not only will you be feeling more chilled by 5pm, dogs in the office will also force you to have regular breaks from your desk. It’s well documented that inactivity is a risk factor for obesity, cardiovascular disease and type-2 diabetes, so breaking up sedentary activity with help from a furry friend can also benefit your physical health! Unsurprisingly, dog owners are also more likely to achieve the recommended daily levels of physical activity.

‘Pawthorisation’ required!

In addition to keeping your canine colleague well fed, watered and walked, it goes without saying that not every dog will suit an office environment. A number of businesses now have policies in place to check a dog’s behaviour and suitability to an office environment, including probationary periods and free flea checks! Consideration also needs to be given to colleagues who aren’t as barking mad as you about having furry friends in the office. A good solution is having designated dog-friendly rooms (good news for any allergy sufferers who can keep their distance), and rules around dog-free eating areas.

Do you bring your dog to work?

We asked a few of our furry friends about their experience in the workplace… First up, meet Wilson, the puggle (pug and beagle cross) and owner Stuart, getting ready for a busy day plumbing!

Property Manager Suzie has a helping hand from adorable dachshund Sasha. People love coming in to say hi to Sasha, she’s bound to put a smile on your face!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s ‘Bring Your Dog to Work’ day on 23^rd June. Put a woof in your workday and seek ‘pawthorisation’ from your workplace today!