iPET Network launches qualification to help keep dogs safe in the office

International awarding organisation and qualification creator iPET Network is launching a new qualification to help keep dogs safe if they go to the office.

The launch coincides with Bring Your Dog To Work Day, which takes place tomorrow (24 June).

The iPET Network Level 2 in Creating a Dog-Friendly Workplace qualification is designed for offices and businesses that regularly welcome pets.

The qualification, which will be regulated by Ofqual, offers the skills that a workplace needs to keep pets well looked after and provides strategies for keeping workers safe in a canine-friendly working environment too.

Modules on the course, which leaves learners with a recognised qualification, include understanding relevant legislation, risk management, policy-making, and studying in detail the benefits and challenges of taking dogs to work.

Sarah Mackay and Fern Gresty, Directors of the iPET Network, said: “There are more dogs in this country than ever before, and during the pandemic many people experienced becoming a dog owner for the first time. Now that people are back in the office, they want to bring along pets, and this is beneficial not only for the workplace, but for the pets too.

“However, we have seen that there is a real need to get this right, and create structures and policies which make our dog-friendly workplaces a happy and healthy environment for everyone concerned. We hope that our course addresses this need, and look forward to welcoming existing and future dog-friendly offices to our sessions.”

To find out more go to www.ipetnetwork.co.uk