A Shropshire estate agents has found the perfect answer to reducing stress levels – by introducing an office dog!
The concept of bringing a pet to work is not a new one and it is a theme that is becoming increasingly popular, with even Google now allowing their workers to bring their dog to work. The idea is also taking off in the UK, The Guardian ran a report on how employees can choose to bring their dogs to work at Nestlé’s corporate headquarters in London and have installed designated dog-friendly rooms and even a special garden for walkies called Central Bark.
Now Harwood Estate Agents in Broseley have introduced their latest member of the team to staff and clients. Max, an eight year old black Labrador.
Having a dog in the office is reported to help reduce stress levels and even has health benefits such as reducing blood pressure, Patrick Smitheman, Harwood Managing Director, believes that Max is a great addition to the office for a number of reasons, as he explains:
“There are many benefits that dogs bring to the workplace, they lower stress levels, heart rate and blood pressure; and people are perceived as more friendly and approachable when a dog is in the office.
“This industry is well known for its incredible stressfulness, not only for customers but staff as well,” said Patrick.
“And equally importantly the presence of a dog is likely to increase co-operation and positive behaviour among staff – for a dog will quickly dissipate problems.”
Patrick and his wife Annie were able to adopt Max from a long standing client and friend, they say he has not only brought enrichment to their family life, but has become a welcome member of the Harwood team.
“Staff are really disappointed if they don’t get to see him here on a daily basis,” said Annie.
“They work long hours and have to deal with lots of problems and Max just softens everything.
“He has the gift of breaking down stress and provides just the right level of friendliness to staff and customers alike.”
The staff seem to agree, Louise Wearmouth, is the rental co-ordinator at Harwood’s: “Max is a fabulous addition to the Harwood family. He makes customers welcome and helps us all to control our stress levels by being a lovely cuddly boy.
“He seems to know when somebody needs him to sit by them,” she added.
Meanwhile sales negotiator Sally Holland says Max makes the office feel like home: “I think Max makes our office a friendlier place. It’s like home from home having a dog around and it breaks the ice because you can talk to customers about the dog.”
Max has even fitted into the wider community as he looks forward to the daily drop off of a sausage from the Miss Molly café across the road!