In just a few days - on June 15, 2023 - employees on four paws will be taking over offices across Germany to mark the "Colleague Dog" campaign day. Together with the pet food brand Cesar, the German Animal Welfare Federation is calling on people to take part in "Kollege Hund" to promote greater acceptance of dogs in the workplace. On this day, both employees and managers can see for themselves the positive energy that dogs bring to everyday office life. However, companies that have already recognized the benefits of dogs in the office and allow four-legged friends on a permanent basis are also invited to register for the campaign day.
"Dogs are very social animals that can't stay at home alone during a long working day. It's just as nice for dog owners to have their pet around them. With our "Colleague Dog" campaign day, we are demonstrating the ideal solution for people and animals - the dog simply accompanies its owner to the office. Ideally, after a trial day, the dog will then become a welcome companion for every day," says Thomas Schröder, President of the German Animal Welfare Federation. "More and more companies are showing tolerance here and have also recognized the advantages: Four-legged friends create a good atmosphere in the office, employees spend their breaks in the fresh air and the risk of dogs being handed in to the animal shelter due to a lack of time decreases. At the same time, the chances of placing shelter dogs, whose adoption often fails due to the work of potential adopters, increase."
Anyone who decides to take part in the "Colleague Dog" campaign day with their four-legged friend should obtain their employer's consent in advance. It should also be clarified in advance whether other employees have any allergies or fears. Once the green light has been given, the dog owner must prepare a retreat for their animal colleague - a soft blanket or a dog basket. A water and food bowl should also be available. Dog owners should devote their breaks entirely to their dog - walks with colleagues are a good idea here. In addition, dog owners should ensure that their four-legged friend is physically and mentally exercised before and after work.
Registration
Owners or employees of companies that allow dogs on the day - or even permanently - can register until June 15. Each participant will receive a guide to integrating dogs into everyday office life in advance and can look forward to a "Cesar surprise package". After taking part, the company will receive a certificate recognizing it as particularly dog-friendly. In the event that dogs are allowed to enrich everyday office life on a permanent basis, the company can use a "dogs welcome" logo for its public image - for example in the entrance area or on its own website.
Note to editors: We will be happy to send you an information flyer on the "Colleague Dog" 2023 campaign day, which includes the various studies on the positive effects of dogs in the workplace.
