Major employers such as Ben & Jerry’s, Bank of America, Amazon, and the Federal Department of the Interior have recognized the benefits of allowing staff to bring their pups to work.
Canine companionship improves employee morale and job satisfaction even in those who do not have dogs of their own.
Executive recruiter Brita Altig brings her 7-year-old Golden Retriever, Charlie to work with her at Amazon‘s Seattle Headquarters each day. The incredibly dog-friendly campus features an on-site dog park, a 17th floor doggy deck complete with faux fire hydrant, and several pup-accessible water fountains.
“The dogs help to create a really nice sense of community and provide some comedic relief throughout the day,” Altig told USA Today.
In addition to their adorable antics, Lara Hirschfield, Amazon’s “Woof Pack” Manager, says that the 6,000 or so staff dogs also help bring the humans together. With a company as huge as Amazon, it is difficult to get to know your coworkers, but according to Hirschfield:
“Dogs in the workplace is an unexpected mechanism for connection. I see Amazonians meeting each other in our lobbies or elevators every day because of their dogs.”
At the main offices of ice cream company Ben & Jerry’s in South Burlington, Vermont, employees love their dogs “almost as much as they love their ice cream.” With approximately 30 – 40 “K9 – 5ers” on the payroll (or more accurately, treat-roll), this famously fun workplace never has a dull moment.
Lindsay Bumps works in public relations for Ben & Jerry’s where she is accompanied by her 6-year-old French Bulldog, Spock. The little pooch is so devoted to his job, weekends and vacations actually stress him out!
“Occasionally on Saturday mornings, he will sit by the front door as I enjoy my coffee on the couch. I think he’s ready to go to work and is like, ‘Hey, lady, let’s go!’” Bumps says. “If we’re on vacation for an extended period of time, he drags me to the front door on our first day back. Given he’s only 25 pounds, it’s entertaining to have him attempt to drag me into the office.”
While having your favorite furry friend by your side at work may sound like a dream come true, it takes some effort to prevent it from becoming a nightmare for your fellow coworkers. Dr. Liz Stelow, a veterinary behaviorist at the University of California-Davis, says making sure your dog is happy and comfortable in the office is key to preventing disruptions.
“What if he’s afraid of strangers, doesn’t get along well with other dogs or gets territorial about his bed, or snarky when he has a treat? What if he gets loud or destructive when ignored?” Stelow asks.
Take Your Dog to Work Day 2018 is coming up on June 22nd. If your company will welcome employee pups, check out this list of Pet Rules & Etiquette to see if your pooch is ready to join the workforce!
For additional info on how to prepare your dog for the office, check out these tips!
H/T to USA Today
Featured Image via Instagram/K9 Spock
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