// Pets at Home launches PETitquette, a service aiming help companies welcome dogs into the workplace
// The guidelines include providing a hygienic place for every dog to feel secure and comfortable
Pets at Home has launched a new service that aims to help companies welcome dogs into the workplace.
Named PETitquette, the programme sets out guidelines to ensure that the animals are kept healthy and safe and to help employees feel comfortable around them.
The retailer said it made the move in a response to more people buying pets during the Covid-19 pandemic, with many now adjusting to a return to the office and the introduction of hybrid working practices.
READ MORE: Pets at Home stores to close on Boxing Day
The guidelines cover:
- Providing a hygienic place for every dog to feel secure and comfortable
- Keeping the workplace place clean and tidy
- Ensuring that dogs are vaccinated and illness free – including the need for third party insurance
- Maintaining regular exercise and hydration levels
- Establishing a dinner and play time that does not interrupt others
Pets at Home also offers so called ‘PETternity leave’ where staff can take a day off when they get a new dog, cat or horse to help the animals settle in.
Pets at Home group director of people partnering Jane Beresford said: “There can be many benefits to having dogs in the office, including the links to boosting morale and promoting positive mental health,”
“There are also advantages for our pets, who have become used to having their owners at home over the pandemic. But going ‘dog friendly’ should not be a quick decision and that is why we have created our PETiquette guide, so that employers can create the best environment for both their people and pets.”
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