They might not answer emails or attend meetings, but our four-legged colleagues make a real difference to the workday.
At our admin and training centre in Waratah, dogs are a familiar sight, with our hospital team also able to occasionally bring their dogs to work.
Research has shown employees who bring their dogs to work experience significantly lower stress levels throughout the day, while dog-friendly workplaces also encourage stronger social connections, regular breaks and improved wellbeing.
“The stats don’t lie, I feel an increased sense of wellbeing and happiness when one of the dogs is wandering around the Waratah office,” says AREC People and Culture Manager, Nicole Ottery. “I definitely miss them when they’re not around.”
While welcoming animals into the workplace comes naturally at AREC, we’re no longer the exception. More Australian workplaces are embracing dog-friendly policies after recognising the positive impact they can have on employee wellbeing.
Jonah Guo, Senior Account Manager with Elmo Software, finds that having his dog, Steven, in the office gives everyone a moment to decompress when they come say hi or give him a pat.
“He’s a great emotional support animal and is extremely social – he loves all people!”, says Jonah.
“Having an in-built excuse to take a break and go for a walk is great for me too,” he says. “Also hearing him do his morning zoomies with his toys in the office brings me loads of joy.”
Jonah brings Steven in 2-3 times per week, but it’s a full-week option for employees at Elmo.
It’s the same story at the Covetrus office in Brisbane.
“As I work for an animal health company, we have a dog friendly office and I could bring my pups to work each day if I wanted to,” says Dane Brazenas, Talent Acquisition Manager at Covetrus, whose dachshund Fritz is a regular office visitor.
“It’s a great way to reduce stress and remind yourself of the important things in life.”
He finds the impact on his colleagues also rewarding. “No matter how they are feeling that day, they always smile in that moment and that is such a good thing for office morale and culture.”
The impact on the dog’s wellbeing is also significant.
Sally Groen, AREC’s HR Coordinator, finds the best thing about bringing her dog, Bullet, into the office is having him by her side and knowing he’s safe. “Bull suffers from separation anxiety and regularly escapes, putting himself and others at risk,” she says.
Dane agrees this is a key benefit to him as well. “As Fritz has gotten on in years and requires extra care and attention, it is nice to be able to bring him into the office rather than worry about him being at home alone for long periods of time.”
Animal welfare organisations also say pet-friendly policies are increasingly being viewed as an employee benefit that can help attract and retain staff, particularly in hybrid workplaces.
Our Vet Director, Dr Caroline Romeo, agrees. For people with pets recovering from an illness or injury, a pet-friendly workplace can have benefits to the employee and employer.
“Many of our clients need to take time off work after their pet has been in hospital so they’re not left at home without supervision. For those who can bring their dog to work, it can be a great solution. It allows their dog to stay close while they recover and helps owners return to work with greater peace of mind,” she says.
We’re proud to welcome our animals into the workplace, where they help strengthen our culture, boost morale and bring a little extra joy to the day.
On Friday 26 June, we’re promoting Take Your Dog To Work Day at AREC. To find out more about the day – and the benefits of embracing a dog-friendly culture – visit https://www.petsit.com/takeyourdog
#takeyourdogtoworkday
Pictured:
Jonah’s Steven, enjoying a nap in his workplace beanbag
Sally’s Bull Arab cross, Bullet, taking over AREC CEO Matt Wann’s office
Dane and Fritz, on a workday break at Covetrus
Caroline’s Australian Shepherd, Lenny, taking a break under Mum’s desk
