Eddie the dog really loves his day job.
If he’s not lounging on his own personal bean bag by his owner’s desk he’s up on top of it overseeing Jane Preston’s work or accepting cuddles and offers of walks from adoring colleagues.
“Having him there really helps me de-stress and brings me pleasure every day,” says Jane, who works for internet giant Google at its Central London HQ.
“The office is always more energised when Eddie is around!”
Experts, including 82% of GPs, agree with Jane, saying that pets at work can help employees relax, reduce stress and heart rate and even lower blood pressure.
“Even my 45-minute commute during rush hour is a pleasure with Eddie around – people smile and even talk to me,” says Jane, 43.
The benefits of doggy power – particularly in these troubled economic times – is being celebrated next Wednesday with Take Your Dog To Work Day.
It’s hoped that thousands of dog-lovers will take their pet pooches into the workplace.
“I can’t encourage people enough,” says Jane. “If your dog is well-trained then persuade your company to let you do it. You won’t regret it.”
Research by The Blue Cross pet charity – which is backing the event – supports Jane’s view.
A survey has shown that more than 90% of employers which allowed dogs in noticed a positive change in the working environment. Half even found that there was a decrease in absenteeism, while two-thirds said it improved staff morale.
On average Eddie, a terrier/whippet cross rescued from Battersea Dogs Home nine years ago, commutes in at least twice a week from Jane’s home in Carshalton Beeches, Surrey.
“He always manages to make space for himself – usually under the seat behind my legs,” says Jane, who works as a facilities manager running Google’s various buildings.
“The vast majority of fellow travellers love having him around.”
From the station it’s a short walk to the office where Eddie settles down on his bean bag.
“Google, where I’ve worked for more than six years, has an official ‘dog policy’ in all of its offices worldwide.
“Well-behaved dogs are welcome so long as nearby colleagues have no objections, allergies or fears.”
And in Jane’s office, everyone simply adores Eddie.
“At times there can be a line of people waiting for a cuddle.
“Taking him for a walk is never a problem, no matter how busy I may get, so many people love to take him out. One colleague runs at lunchtime and will often take him with her.”
When Jane’s day is getting manic she loves nothing more than to give Eddie a pat. “I instantly feel myself calming down. He has the same effect on everyone else.”
Eddie even has an international following. “When I’m doing video conferences he’s there and everyone calls out to see how he’s doing. He makes people smile which can only be a good thing.”
In fact Eddie’s now so famous in the office that he’s even had a colour printer named after him.
“He’s quite a star and even goes down well with celebrities,” says Jane proudly.
“One day David Hasselhoff came in for a chat with the team. While a group of adoring fans surrounded him, Eddie decided to see what all the fuss was about.
“The Hoff instantly fell in love with him. There were some jealous glares that day!”
Eddie, who is about 10, is house-trained, so unfortunate accidents are never an issue.
“Otherwise there could be mayhem. If there were any high jinks Eddie would be on the first train home,” adds Jane.
sit and stay..be the boss
1TAKE a bed, water bowl and a few favourite toys.
2LET your dog explore the office.
3INTRODUCE them to your workmates.
4LET people know if you’re leaving the office, so they can keep an eye on your dog.
5CONSIDER getting a dog pen.
1A pet in the workplace can help reduce stress levels and heart rates. The simple action of stroking can actually lower blood pressure.
2Dogs are great ice-breakers with both clients and colleagues.
3Dogs create a feel-good factor among staff.
4You’ve always got a friend near by no matter how bad things get
5It will help you get out for some fresh air at lunch.
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