Konrad Lorenz, the renowned Austrian zoologist, put it perfectly: “The bond with a true dog is as lasting as the ties of this earth will ever be.” It’s no wonder that for many professionals, a workplace that welcomes their four-legged companions is a true competitive advantage. With 60% of British households now owning pets — including an incredible 13.5 million dogs — the connection between people and their pets has never been stronger. During the pandemic alone, 3.2 million households chose to bring a dog into their lives, reinforcing just how much these companions mean to us. And the benefits go far beyond getting more exercise.
Dogs bring joy, companionship and a sense of routine. They help us connect with others, providing daily opportunities for social interaction. With many employers encouraging staff back into the office, it’s clear that a pet-friendly policy isn’t just a perk — it’s a way to create a more engaging, connected workplace. Research increasingly shows that pets act as social catalysts, encouraging interaction, strengthening workplace relationships and fostering collaboration.
Beyond their social benefits, pets also contribute to our physical and emotional well-being. Therapy animals have long played vital roles in hospitals, schools and even police stations, so it’s no surprise that more companies are embracing the presence of well-behaved pets in their offices. At Gilmoora House, we see firsthand how having dogs around lifts moods, reduces stress and boosts focus — all while making our workspace an even better place to be.
A dog-friendly office is more than just an idea; it’s a reality we fully embrace. Many of our residents bring their dogs in regularly, and we love celebrating this by hosting special Bring Your Dog to Work days. Our last event saw a record nine dogs of all breeds, ages and sizes playing together in our break-out spaces, while their owners, some of whom had never met before, connected in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
Our furry friends have become such a fixture at Gilmoora House that we now keep treats at reception, ready to greet them with a little something special. Being welcomed by wagging tails and happy faces is just another reason we love coming to work. While the official Take Your Dog to Work Day falls on June 21st this year, at Gilmoora House, we like to think that every day is a Take Your Dog to Work Day.
As we continue to embrace a more flexible and inclusive workplace culture, we look forward to seeing even more furry friends join our community. Whether they’re snoozing under desks, making new canine companions, or simply offering a moment of comfort during a busy day, our four-legged colleagues play a big role in making Gilmoora House feel like home. Looking ahead, we’re always considering new ways to make our pet-friendly environment even more welcoming. Whether through shared spaces, informal gatherings, or other opportunities for interaction, we enjoy seeing both people and pets enjoying their time at Gilmoora House.
