With many dog owners returning to the office this week, Dogs Trust is encouraging more workplaces to allow employees to bring their dogs to work.
As many dog owners would have been working from home over the past 18 months or so, our canine friends have been used to having us at home. Also, a lot of new pets have been added to families across the country during the pandemic and are not familiar with being home alone.
As part of its Dog Friendly Ireland initiative, Dogs Trust would love to see more workplaces allowing employees to bring their dogs to work, where appropriate to do so.
Ciara Byrne, Head of Communications at Dogs Trust Ireland explains:
“So many people became dog owners during the pandemic, and we feel that the more workplaces that welcome dogs, the more dogs will remain in their homes, and we can hopefully avoid another wave of surrender requests. Many people feel that having a dog around can boost productivity and teamwork and what better way to fight off any return-to-work fears than having the comfort of your furry friend with you?
Pet ownership has also been associated with a number of positive health benefits, some of which include fewer visits to the doctor, lower cholesterol, lower blood-pressure and improved heart health meaning the potential for healthier and happier employees.”
Dogs Trust advises there are many different ways to create a space that will be safe and secure for dogs, while also ensuring that humans and dogs alike are happy and comfortable.
Tips and advice if you want to bring your dog to work
The charity has also offered some tips and advice should you be lucky enough to have your canine companion accompany you to the office.
These include ensuring that your colleagues are happy for you to bring in a dog, make sure you have something for each dog to chew on, preferable something non-squeaky, be sure your dog is confident around strangers and will enjoy being at work with you and make sure dogs always have a fresh supply of water where people can’t trip over it.
Ciara Byrne, Head of Communications at Dogs Trust Ireland continues:
“We understand that it’s not possible to bring every dog to work, some may not enjoy it and some workplaces may be unsuitable. For those dog owners, we would recommend walking your dog before you go to work, breaking up their day by going home at lunch or asking a friend or dog walker if this is not possible."
Dogs Trust also encourages people to sign up for its free Bark to Basics pack which has lots of advice to help keep your dog happy in their own company while you are at work.
