Friday 22nd June 2018 marks the official ‘Bring your Dog to Work Day’ – an annual nationwide event that raises money for charities dedicated to making a difference to the welfare of dogs.
There are now over 50 companies in the UK that allow dogs in the workplace and it has been proven that having our furry friends in the office provides many health benefits, including: –
*Lower stress levels – dogs have a calming effect on us and it is scientifically proven that when we stroke a dog, we release the feel-good hormones serotonin, prolactin and oxytocin (and the dog does too!)
*Dogs provide us with an improved capability to absorb stress
*Heart health – Studies show that having a canine companion is linked to lower blood pressure, reduced cholesterol, and decreased triglyceride levels, which contribute to better overall cardiovascular health and fewer heart attacks
*Laughter – the best way to de-stress is through laughing and our furry friends certainly make us laugh daily
Of course, the opposing argument is that dogs may be a distraction to other employees, some may be allergic, they may bark during important meetings or phone calls.
However, dogs love nothing more than just being with their owners and they are creatures of habit – they will adjust almost instantly to their new routine and settle into your work pattern. I know myself, I work with my dog every day and he is fully settled in to our ‘work routine’.
In 2014, Nestle Purina introduced the Pets At Work (PAW) Programme allowing all employees to bring their dogs to work every day. Richard Watson, the Regional Director at Purina says ‘We wholeheartedly believe that people and pets are better together – and being at work should not stand in the way of that. It boosts employee morale, encourages more physical activity and helps us create a stimulating environment where our people are happy, have fun and can perform at their best. Having pets in the office is inspirational.
It certainly seems like it is working for Nestle and so there is no better time than getting your employer on board with ‘Bring Your Dog to Work Day’ and raising some money for that all important charity – you never know, if those furry friends really behave themselves they may be able to come to work more often!