Why your office needs a four-legged employee

Create a pet-friendly office space and enjoy the benefits of an office dog.

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We've got a secret weapon to combat those Monday blues, and no, it's not endless coffee—it's the unbridled joy of having dogs in the office! 

Forget about 3pm slumps; think wagging tails and puppy-dog eyes instead. 

In the era of remote working and increased stress levels, it's time to explore the benefits of a pet-friendly office. Trust us, having a furry mate at the office is a game-changer.

They’re the furry workplace therapist you didn't know you needed

Pets have long been recognised for their therapeutic value. It's not just the soft fur and friendly disposition; studies have shown that being around dogs can decrease stress and lower blood pressure. 

Whether it’s just for a little head scratch or cuddle, or to join you on a walk around the block after a stressful meeting that didn’t quite go your way, they’re there for you. One pat at a time, an office dog can help take your employees' stress levels down a few notches.

Socialising made simple

An office dog can be your secret weapon to build a more tight-knit team. 

Dogs are natural ice-breakers; they've got the power to turn awkward silences into bouts of laughter. 

Who knew you and that quiet guy from accounting both enjoy a good game of fetch?

Furry colleagues can make your workplace a happier place

Who doesn’t smile when there’s a cute dog wagging their tail when looking your way with those oh-so-innocent puppy dog eyes?

But there’s more to it than just a smile.

According to the University of Southern California, “pets can keep workplace spirits high and add some comic relief, which can be critical for the overall office mood”.

“Laughter, collaboration and positivity are just as contagious as negativity and stress, but come with benefits like great morale and better communication.”

Getting the band team back together

After a few years of predominantly working from home (and many people become pet owners), there’s lots of people who aren’t comfortable with the idea of leaving their pets at home alone all day.

And if you’re hoping to get the team back together in the office, you may need to offer them an incentive to do so. Bringing in their furry friends may just be it.

Creating a pet-friendly office environment

Before introducing a pet into the office, it's important to set some ground rules. Is the workspace pet-friendly? Does anyone have allergies or fears? It's also key to establish rules with the dog’s owner about caring for the dog and managing its behaviour.

Here are some things to think about:

• Discuss the idea with all employees to ensure everyone's up for some furry office mates
• Create a pet policy outlining guidelines for bringing, maintaining, and handling pets at work
• Map out pet-safe areas and no-go zones in the office to keep everyone (and everything) safe
• Do a quick pet-proofing sweep and remove any hazardous objects or toxic plants
• Mark a designated area for pets to relieve themselves and provide disposal bags for waste
• Provide accessible pet-friendly spaces like play areas or quiet zones for rest
• Stock up on essentials like water bowls, toys and treats
• Remind your team to keep their desks clean to avoid any 'my dog ate my report' situations
• Have a contingency plan in place to handle any allergies, fears, or issues that might come with the furry new territory

Once you've crossed these T's and dotted those I's, you're all set to introduce your office's new fur-avorite member!

The doggy bag: Office dog treats and food

Now, if you're thinking about welcoming a dog into your office space, remember that they too deserve some special treatment. Golden Barkery specialises in office dog food and treats that include doggie cakes, bakes, and biscuits.

Not only are these nibbles doggone delicious (or so we’ve been told) but they're also jam-packed with all the good stuff to keep your office pupper in top shape!

Treats for all - Including your office dog

Just as we’ve revolutionised corporate catering, bringing varied cuisine options to offices around Australia, we now offer a range of dog-friendly treats. 

As part of your kitchen supply order, you can include delectable office dog treats for any visiting friends. With easy processing and consolidated invoicing, organising dog treats alongside your regular catering order has never been easier.

Whether you're in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, or Canberra, we’re ready to serve up some treats. Just decide on the date, choose your menu, and include some special treats for your office dog. We'll take care of the rest, leaving you and your team - two and four-legged members included - to simply enjoy your meal.

So what are you waiting for? Unleash the fun and make your office pet-friendly. We promise, it's going to be an absolute tail-wagger!

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