The Office Dog

Over the years I have often suggested (maybe nagged) my past employers to let us have an office dog. The idea was simple: add a furry companion to the workplace to help ease the stress and bring a little joy into the day-to-day grind. Surprisingly, one of my employers agreed. And honestly, it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. The office dog was a perfect distraction during those tense, high-pressure moments, offering a moment of calm and a reason to smile in the middle of a hectic workday.

Fast forward to today, and the idea of having animals in the workplace is becoming more common. People are starting to realise the positive impact pets, particularly dogs, can have on mental health and overall employee well-being. Studies have shown that spending time with animals reduces stress, boosts mood, and even improves productivity. As a result, pets in the office are no longer a novelty—they’re increasingly seen as a valuable asset to fostering a healthier, more supportive work environment.

From Office Dog to Therapy Dog: A New Chapter with Hank

We always knew Hank had the ability to bring a bit of calm as well as chaos to our lives and it had often been suggested that we explore having him assessed as a therapy dog. A few weeks ago, Hank officially qualified with Therapy Dogs Nationwide and our first assignment was to the amazing Broughton House Veterans Care Home in North Manchester.

I can honestly say that the experience was one of the most rewarding and emotional moments of my life. The joy and comfort that Hank brought to the residents was palpable. Their faces lit up when they saw him, and it was clear that he had an immediate, positive effect.

For the veterans at Broughton House, many of whom may have experienced trauma and significant health issues, Hank’s presence was a source of warmth and connection. For me, it was a humbling reminder of how small acts of kindness—like spending time with a therapy dog—can make a huge difference in someone’s day.

Therapy Dogs Nationwide: A Growing Movement

Hank and I will be visiting Broughton House regularly now, and we’re also looking forward to taking on additional assignments from Therapy Dogs Nationwide. The more I get involved with this charity, the more I realise just how much I’m gaining from this experience too. It’s not just about bringing joy to the people we visit; it’s also about the emotional fulfilment and deep sense of purpose I get from working with Hank and seeing firsthand how our visits can brighten someone’s day.

The Personal Impact

I often think back to when I was asking my employers to let us have a dog in the office. Little did I know, that suggestion would lead to something far more meaningful than just a cute distraction during the workday. It’s amazing how something as simple as having a dog around can evolve into something so much larger—helping people, offering emotional support, and even contributing to someone’s healing journey.

The benefits for everyone involved are amazing. For me, working alongside Hank as we visit care homes and hospitals is a deeply personal and rewarding experience. And it’s only the beginning.

So, to anyone considering the idea of an office pet or therapy dog—take the leap. You never know how much it can change your life and the lives of those around you.

Do you have any experiences with therapy animals or office pets? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!