We are pleased to share that Hadland Care Group has extended the family to include some furry friends. Staff are now able to bring their dogs to work at head office under the guidance of the recently introduced ‘bring your dog to work policy’.
Studies have shown that a dog-friendly office optimises opportunities for exercise, giving pet owners an excuse to get out of the office and fit in a walk on their lunch break.
Bringing pets to work means employees aren’t worrying about their pets sitting at home alone all day. This is particularly important for employees who have young puppies or senior dogs.
Playing with or petting an animal can increase levels of the stress-reducing hormone oxytocin and decrease production of the stress hormone cortisol. A study in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management found that access to dogs was a calming influence and reduced stress levels, whether people had access to their own pets or other people’s.
Since the policy was implemented, we have seen 9 four-legged friends in the office. Terri Smithers, Office manager commented
“I had been waiting for 5 years to buy a puppy but due to the restrictions and having to leave them at home, I had put this on hold.
Having this policy in place has allowed me to get my puppy and bring her to work which I absolutely love! Having Wednesday here is great. Before bringing her in, I would sit in the kitchen at lunch, now, I get out walking three times a day which benefits us both.”
Employer of choice, Hadland Care Group not only recognises the benefits of having a dog friendly office but also the implication it may have on those who may not feel comfortable around dogs. Dogs are not allowed to go into meeting rooms and have to remain on a lead whenever they are around those we who are not a fan. All dogs must have had their jabs, be wormed, flea repelled and insured before allowing them into the building.
To find out more about the benefits of working with Hadland Care Group, please click here.
