Man’s best friend became man’s best co-worker at select Auckland Council offices last Friday, 7 September.
Friday was the first time the council has trialled a ‘bring your dog to work day', and it follows support from Councillor Dr Cathy Casey for making Auckland a more dog-friendly city.
“I want Auckland to become as dog-friendly as Rome, Paris, Amsterdam and Vancouver. In these cities pooches hang out in cafes and travel on the public transport system," she says.
“So, I proposed that Auckland Council could be a leader for change by being the first public sector organisation to welcome dogs into the workplace for at least one day a year.
“It’s important to have a good balance between work-life and home-life and research suggests that having pets in the workplace increases employee wellbeing, reduces stress and increases productivity.”
Studies have also found that employees had higher job satisfaction when dogs are allowed in the workplace, there was greater team collaboration, and that communication and morale improved.
Many large organisations around the globe, including Google and Amazon, are creating pet-friendly workplaces. In Auckland, private companies are beginning to follow suit providing employees with the option of bringing their dogs to work.
“This practice allows the organisation to be more inclusive, as employees can bring their whole self to work," Councillor Casey says.
Safety first
The trial ran in the council’s most ‘dog-friendly’ buildings, Orewa Tasman and Pacific buildings, and Henderson Admin building.
These spaces were considered most suitable because they are low-rise buildings with plenty of green spaces nearby.
Staff were consulted during the development of the trial to ensure a safe working environment was maintained.
“We take the health, safety and wellbeing of our people very seriously and considered all of the challenges associated with bringing dogs into the workplace. Various departments across the council were consulted during the process, including the health and safety team,” says Councillor Casey.
“Overall, feedback from the trial was positive and we hope to make this an annual event.”
Renew registration for your dog
Auckland Council has also been trialling a new process for its annual dog registration in a bid to encourage owners to complete their renewals online.
If you need to renew registration for your dog, visit the online renewal portal.
