If you know ADPR, you know we’re all puppy fans! So it’s no surprise that most of the team have a furry friend or two in their household – and better yet, they often venture into the office for their own paw-some planning and paw-ties!
Whilst it’s lovely having the dogs in the office, it is actually proven that dogs bring more than just great cuddles and warm feet… From news articles to university studies – the results speak for themselves:
Changing the atmosphere
Just a 10m fuss of your furry friend, can significantly reduce cortisol, the hormone linked with stress, while boosting oxytocin and dopamine – the chemicals that make us feel happier and more connected. We know that there are times when work can be tough requiring you to get your head down, but it’s important to put your mental health first – ensuring you have breaks and time away from the screen.
Lowering anxiety
Studies show that the simple act of stroking a dog releases a relaxation response and levels of anxiety can drop by 24%, just from being in the presence of a dog. Dogs are also known to reduce the focus on negative emotions, encouraging happiness and positivity… Is it the wagging tail, puppy-dog eyes or wet nose we love most?
Exercise and fresh air
Sometimes it can be hard to get away from your desk, but there are needs – so a quick leg stretch to let the pooches out for a sniff and to do their business, or a lunchtime stroll can be a welcome break, for you and the dogs! And we all know how important fresh air is – even just 20m away from your desk, walking, taking in fresh open air and resetting your mind – it can be more valuable than you think.
Increased social interaction
When you’re focused on the task in hand and/or on deadline to get something completed, it can be hard to engage with the team around you – but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. Your team are there to support you, share the load and offer support, including the doggos – and often, they’re the ice breaker you need. Working in marketing and communications in intense, so acknowledge the nose on your lap and the person across the desk – they’re all aiming for the same goal as you.
Flexibility
Being able to bring your four-legged friend into the office helps to connect the home and office balance. We often crave social interaction and the need for connection with our colleagues, but having a dog (or two) at home can hinder that – unless you work for a dog friendly company and can bring them with you. It’s socialisation for the dogs too, especially when there’s other furry friends for them to play (or nap) with too!
We know not everyone loves dogs, but at ADPR, we’ve welcomed the pups in the office since we began and today, I think we have as many dogs in the team as colleagues… So happy National Dog Day! We hope you’re celebrating your furry friends and giving them an extra treat or two today.
If you want to read more about how dogs can help your workplace or team, check out this lovely organisation: www.momenttopaws.co.uk and if you want to adopt a new furry friend, check out the amazing Ferne Animal Sanctuary in the South West.
Check out our social channels to see what the pups get up to… LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram.