Dogs Trust launches Dog Friendly Workplaces programme

Dogs Trust has launched a Dog Friendly Workplaces programme, for businesses who want to support their employees amid the rise of dog ownership.

The programme has been established in response to growing concerns among dog owners about what their physical return to work will mean for their dogs, who have become used to them working from home over the past couple of years.

Dogs Trust hopes that by offering companies a potential solution, it can work with employers to reduce the number of dog owners who will be forced to make the decision to give up their dogs because they can’t look after them during the working day.

The programme will help companies to support not only their dog-owning employees, but also their clients, customers, and other visitors by creating a dog-welcoming and happy environment for all so they can bring their canine companions into their place of business. The programme also provides training and enrichment resources for dogs at home, to help them adjust to their new routine in which their owners may not be at home as much.

The Dog Friendly Workplaces programme includes a comprehensive training package for dog owners, offering engaging, informative content, such as regular live webinars with training and tips for dogs going into workplaces or while at home. It will help workforces prepare themselves, their own or visiting dogs, colleagues, customer and visitors, and their work settings, should they choose to take their canine companion on their daily commute to work.

Jenna Kiddie, Head of Canine Behaviour said: “Our Dog Friendly Workplaces programme aims to guide businesses in their planning to welcome dogs into their workplace, including dog welfare, human health and safety considerations, and advice to keep everyone in the office comfortable.

“For employees we offer fun, bitesize training and behaviour tips through our Dog Friendly Workplaces member-only website, perfect for browsing during a tea break. Whether they are new to dogs or have always had dogs in their lives, employees will be able to test their doggy knowledge with interactive quizzes and learn something new. We also have articles packed full of tips for anyone considering taking their dog into a place of business, to help make it a smooth and happy transition for everyone involved.”

Businesses are already utilising this programme, such as flexible workspace provider WeWork, which is giving their employees and members access to the resources, while Mini UK is using the initiative to support their workforce to welcome customers’ dogs into their showrooms.

Jennie Becker, Director of Events & Activations at WeWork UK & Ireland, said: “It’s great to be able to support our members with this helpful programme of information, some of whom really value the flexibility of bringing their dog to work.

“Our pet policy also makes sure everybody feels comfortable in our spaces, and we find that welcoming dogs can boost the overall well-being and experience of our members and can even facilitate more social interactions within our community.”