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Benefits of bringing your dog to work

Health, Work

Have you ever longed to bring your four-legged friend to work with you?

Friday, 21 June is International Bring Your Dog to Work Day. If you’ve ever longed to bring your pup along to the office, or your heart breaks a little every time you race out the door in the morning, now is your chance to bring your boss’s attention to the range of benefits from having your pooch with you at work.

We asked founder of Happy Office Dogs, Stephanie Rousseau, to tell us just how great bringing your dog to work can be, and her top tips for making sure the arrangement works for everyone.

Stephanie says the case for employers opening their doors to their employees’ four-legged friends is a strong one. Research shows there are many advantages to be gained in doing so, including:

• Reduced stress amongst employees. Stress is a major contributor to employee absenteeism, and one that is expected to increase over the coming years;

• Increased cohesion and team satisfaction;

• Enhanced recruitment – two thirds of HR decision makers are regularly asked about pet-friendly policies;

• Improved employee retention – 65% of respondents to one survey even said they’d take a pay cut if it meant they could take their pets to work.

Of course, the employers and employees aren’t the only ones who stand to gain. For dogs, many of whom are living increasingly isolated lives as their owners work more and commute further, accompanying their owner to work can provide them with one of the things they value most- companionship. They can also benefit from a chance to experience new surroundings, interesting smells, and to meet new people and other dogs.

There are, however, a number of things to consider if you’re hoping to bring your dog to work. It goes without saying that you will have to get your employer’s permission and they are likely to have a number of concerns. Here are the most common concerns:

• The building lease forbids it: many workplaces are rented, and your employer may be subject to an agreement which says that animals are not allowed on the premises. It may be possible for your employer to negotiate an exception to this, especially if they can prove that they have a water-tight pet policy that minimises the risks.

• A concern for staff who dislike or have a phobia of dogs: in smaller workplaces, seeking the approval of your colleagues before speaking to your boss will strengthen your case. In larger workplaces, it may be possible to create dog-friendly and dog-free zones. It is important that these areas are clearly labelled to minimise the chances of somebody with an allergy ending up in a room where allergens are present despite the dogs having left.

• A worry that dogs will negatively affect productivity: studies show that this is not the case, and some suggest that allowing dogs can even improve productivity.

If you’re one of the lucky people who will be bringing your dog to work on Friday – or one of the even luckier people who can bring your dog to work every day – these are my top tips for ensuring the experience is positive for all involved.

• Plan your journey: I suggest that you plan to allow extra time for your journey to work. Allowing plenty of time for your dog to sniff and potter before a day in the office will provide them with the mental stimulation to start the day in a calm, relaxed manner. Check the rules surrounding dogs on public transport in your area. They may not be allowed on your usual mode of transport, or may only be allowed at the driver’s discretion. Avoiding using public transport at peak times, when your dog could be overwhelmed by the volume of people, trod upon, or subject to unwelcome attention.

• Keep things calm: Getting your dog wound up by playing fast games like fetch will leave their systems flooded with adrenaline. When they’ve slept off the physical tiredness, these hormones will still be in their systems and can contribute to unwanted behaviours. Keeping them calm and engaging them in slow, mentally stimulating activities will tire them out in a much more beneficial way. Slow, sniffy walks, nose games and puzzles are all winners.

• Pack a bag: pack a bag with clean-up stuff (excited dogs pee more often, so new environments can sometimes lead to accidents), treats, chew toys that will alleviate boredom and release feel-good hormones in the brain, and a comfortable bed. Dogs need to get about 40% of their sleep during the day, so if they can’t settle comfortably somewhere in the office, they may become over-tired. Over-tired dogs tend to become restless and struggle to settle.

And remember, don’t expect too much from your dog – this is a new experience for them too, and if it’s going to be an on-going arrangement, you may need to tweak things to ensure they work for all involved!

Steph Rousseau is an Irish dog trainer and behaviourist with a particular interest in facilitating dogs in the workplace. Her book Office Dogs: The Manual, published by Hubble & Hattie, is available to order from Amazon and you can follow her work on her website www.happyofficedogs.com.

June 21, 2019/by Roisin Healy
Tags: bring your dog to work, dog, dog owners, Happiness, Health, office, Wellbeing, workplace
https://i1.wp.com/irishcountrymagazine.ie/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/4.dog_.jpg?fit=790%2C527&ssl=1 527 790 Roisin Healy https://irishcountrymagazine.ie/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/icm_logo_black-e1556197717791.png Roisin Healy2019-06-21 08:37:132019-07-05 12:59:57Benefits of bringing your dog to work
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Read Paralympian @keane_ellen’s full interview in the latest issue of Irish Country Magazine, on shelves now. 

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In the contributor spotlight this week is @mariamo In the contributor spotlight this week is @mariamoynihan .

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The mantra you live by: "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" - Mary Oliver

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When the world opens back up, where will you travel? In Ireland, I can't wait to bring our baby girl, Fallon, to West Cork. There is so much to see and do in the Bantry and Sheep's Head area, like Garnish Island, the Heron Gallery cafe and gardens and Dursey Island. Abroad, I would like our first family trip to be to Jersey in the Channel Islands, where we went on our holidays as children. I'm dreaming of eating pizza and drinking rhubarb lemonade over Portlet Bay! Also, I want to travel to the UK, Spain and Nova Scotia to give big hugs to my friends living abroad.
 
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My favourite piece to write: Personally, it was a great privilege to have the platform to share the story of my son Danann, who was diagnosed with Edwards Syndrome at 20 weeks and passed away in labour at 38 weeks, but changed our lives forever. So many readers reached out to me after that article; he really touched so many lives and continues to do so.

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My best meal ever: The tasting menu at The Old Convent in Clogheen, Co Tipperary, and closer to home, tortellini in blue cheese sauce in Chez Christophe in Tralee, with some gorgeous Breton cider.

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Describe your personal style: Vintage inspired, with a hint of 1980s Bosco presenter.

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Favourite Irish brand: Food wise, the hot chocolate from Hazel Mountain Chocolate in the Burren is the most decadent treat. Beauty wise, I love Voya products from Sligo especially.

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What would you tell your 18-year-old self? You will face challenges in life that you can't even contemplate right now, but follow your heart and you will not only survive, but experience a love and strength you never thought possible.

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Maria has been writing for the magazine since the beginning (almost 9 years) and readers will know she always brings a gorgeous mix of humour, honesty and generosity to her pieces.

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At 25, Ellen Keane is at the top of her game. She At 25, Ellen Keane is at the top of her game. She was Ireland’s youngest ever athlete when she swam in the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games at just 13. Five years ago in Rio de Janeiro, she brought home bronze for Ireland in the 100 metre breaststroke and she has three bronze World Championship medals to her name. Currently, she's training six days a week for the Tokyo games this summer, and you can bet she has her eye on a podium finish.
 
“The Paralympics is all about challenging people's perception of what people with disabilities can do. That's what I'm trying to do with my life: I'm trying to challenge people's perception of me and give other people with disabilities challenges."

Read her full interview, in conversation with @joanneor, inside the March|April issue, out now. 

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From delicious, comforting recipes, to easy wardrobe updates (made to last for many seasons to come), to our weddings special detailing all the wonderful ways small weddings can be beautiful, there is plenty to discover and enjoy. Link in bio for a closer look! 

Thanks to all of our readers for sticking with us throughout the last year! The magazine is still available in supermarkets, newsagents and shops, and for anyone who can't get out, you can also buy our digital edition online at irishcountrymagazine.ie/subscribe-today.  Subscriptions should be arriving to front doors in the coming days, too. Limited edition available in braille and audio for @ncbi_sightloss members. Happy reading ❤

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In the contributor spotlight this week is journali In the contributor spotlight this week is journalist @ruthoconnorsays. 
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The mantra you live by or repeat to everyone:

As youngsters, my father always told us "All you can do is your best - but only you know if you've done that or not". I think it's a good way to think about things - whether academic performance, work, parenting or other situations. One can only do one's best based on the tools, knowledge and experience to hand - what more can one do? But at the same time it pushes me to expect a lot from myself. 

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Where you're going first when travel is allowed:

I will be on the first plane to Rome to visit friends for a combination of warmth, great food, culture and music. I'd also love to visit Lisbon again - this time in the company of my girlfriends and minus my children! Aer Lingus have just launched direct flights to Santorini - I've always wanted to holiday there so that's next on the list. 

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Your favourite piece to write so far for Irish Country Magazine:
I've written for 50 issues of Irish Country Magazine so it's hard to choose! I loved my 'anti-trend trend report' last year looking at the impact of a turbulent time in the fashion industry and at the growing (and hopefully lasting) 'trends' of sustainability, diversity and inclusion in fashion. I was delighted to be able to chat to Louise McSharry on her Sound of the Nation show on 2fm about this feature which seemed to strike a chord with people.

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The best meal in Ireland is... 

One shared with friends. We were booked to enjoy a meal at Ichigo Ichie last year when Covid hit so I'll be visiting Cork again as soon as restrictions allow.

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To read Ruth’s latest piece for Irish Country Magazine, pick up the current issue, on shelves now!

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FIRST LOOK: We are so excited to share the March/A FIRST LOOK: We are so excited to share the March/April cover featuring Paralympian Ellen Keane! The athlete took part in a breathtaking shoot with photographer Lee Malone on a Dublin beach, and spoke to journalist Joanne O'Riordan about the importance of positive role models, her journey of self-acceptance and the power of competitive sport. See more inside the new issue, in shops and available for digital download on Tuesday 23 February. 

@keane_ellen photographed by @lee_malone_photography and interviewed by @joanneor for the March/April issue of @irishcountrymag.  #newissue #irishcountrymag #informinspireindulg #ellenkeane #paralympicsireland #paralympics
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Sometimes known as Shrove Tuesday, which was traditionally the day you'd finalise your 'what you're giving up for Lent' decision, it was a custom to eat pancakes and other treats on this day.
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In the contributor spotlight this week is journali In the contributor spotlight this week is journalist Lily Champ.
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Favourite band:
In the past, the Jimmy Dunny band (old time dancing). In more recent times it would be Foster and Allen.
 
Irish made product:
Home knitted Aran wear.
 
What I wish I knew at 18 that I know now:
All of the powerful uses of electricity making work simpler in the house and on the farm.
 
My favourite piece so far for Irish Country Magazine:
My first article as it gave me the confidence to write about something I enjoy doing everyday and hope to help others to do the same.
 
The first place I will go when travel allows:
The seaside for long walks on the beach.
 
The best meal in Ireland is:
A hearty beef stew with plenty of fresh vegetables from the garden mixed in.
 
My mantra:
Early to bed, plenty of fresh air, organic food from the garden, exercise and meeting my neighbours and friends across the garden hedge for a chat

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To read Lily’s latest piece for Irish Country Magazine, pick up the current issue, on shelves now!

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#icm #irishcountrymag #spotlight #contributor #sunday #magazine #irish #irishmade #travel #food #style #irishbrand #weekend
You know we love to support Irish companies and br You know we love to support Irish companies and brands and in the latest issue you'll find lots of gems in our fashion, beauty, food and interiors pages, and beyond! One such company is the recent start up from @irelandamvmtv presenter @annadaly. 

We're all living in our loungewear these days, and it can be hard to find beautiful, comfortable pieces for the whole family. The new lifestyle brand for kids and adults called @littleblissbyanna and is inspired by Anna's off-duty wardrobe. The collection was designed by Anna herself along with leading fashion designers, and is made for cosy days enjoying the outdoors and relaxed moments at home – which, let's face it, is all we're doing at the moment anyway! 

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Not sure what to get your loved one this Valentine Not sure what to get your loved one this Valentine's Day? A magazine subscription is the gift that keeps on giving, issue after issue. 
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Show some love this Valentine's Day. Give the gift of Irish Country Magazine from just €35 annually. You can download our digital gift card - ready to pop inside a Valentine's Day card - the perfect gift that will last much longer than a bouquet of flowers! 
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Check out the swipe up link in our story to start your subscription today! 

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In the contributor spotlight this week is journali In the contributor spotlight this week is journalist Judith Faherty - @judef7 - 

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-The mantra you live by or repeat to everyone: I don’t have one.
-Where you're going first when travel is allowed: I am so lucky to live in Connemara, which is without a doubt my favourite place in the world. But the winter has been cold, so I am going to say a warm climate for a week to get that vitamin D flowing!
-Your favourite piece to write so far for Irish Country Magazine: My first piece for ICM was an interview with Yasmin and Maxine Hyde of Ballymaloe Foods and I just loved their work ethic.
-The best meal in Ireland is... Prawn scampi from Mitchell’s Seafood Restaurant in Clifden, Connemara.
-Describe your personal style in one line: I like what I like, try to avoid trends but normally fall into them!
-Favourite Irish brand or Irish-made product: Dubarry. A Galway home grown company that does classic country style to perfection.
-What you wish you knew at 18 that you know now... A 30-year-old is in fact not ancient! I am turning 30 next month and still feel 18.

To read Judith's latest piece for Irish Country Magazine, pick up the current issue, on shelves now!

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#icm #irishcountrymag #spotlight #contributor #sunday #magazine #irish #irishmade #matchmaker #galway #connemara #dubarry #travel #food #style #irishbrand #weekend
Moving into spring has us dreaming about sunnier d Moving into spring has us dreaming about sunnier days, sitting in the garden having brunch with friends. We might have a while to wait for our friends to be in the picture, but that doesn’t mean we can’t treat ourselves. 
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This recipe for Fish Pie Baked Potatoes by @clodagh_mckenna is perfect. For more recipe ideas pick up our latest issue, on shelves now.
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Today is St Brigid's Day, traditionally marking the first day of spring in Ireland. This image of the cliffs of Fairhead in Co Antrim is from our Adventurous Spirit feature in the current issue. It represents the brighter days ahead, the adventures we all hope to have and the places within Ireland that we might be able to visit this year.
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Where's the first place in Ireland you'd like to visit when our 5km restriction is lifted?
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Often overlooked when it comes to interior focus, Often overlooked when it comes to interior focus, the bathroom can be a place of escape for many of us, so in this issue of the mag, we're looking at simple ways to make yours a place you love spending a few quiet minutes.
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Brightening your bathroom:
1. Don't be afraid of going big with wallpaper and colour
2. Keep it uncluttered – let the design details speak
3. Choose a statement sink like this one to add a wow factor
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For more interiors inspiration, see the latest issue on shelves now.
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Over the next few weeks, we'll be introducing you Over the next few weeks, we'll be introducing you to our incredible contributors, the people who provide us with some of the brilliant content you see in the pages of the magazine.
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First up, the spotlight is on @leonie.cornelius! 
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The mantra you live by or repeat to everyone: 
I think it’s so important to find connections to wild nature in our everyday, create spaces & moments of joy for ourselves and take care of ourselves and each other. 

Where you're going first when travel is allowed:
To Rio to meet my 14 month old niece and god-daughter Luana.  I have not met her yet because of the pandemic so I can’t wait! 

Your favourite piece to write so far for Irish Country Magazine:
The wild bee piece I just wrote for the March|April issue! (Out 23 February.) It’s so exciting to explore about how everything is connected - wild nature- humans-gardens-insects, animals…. 

The best meal in Ireland is… 
There’s so much choice but for me it’s always experience based so the tasting menu by Eccles Hotel chef Eddie Atwell on the patio overlooking Glengarriff bay. A magical experience full of wild ingredients including dahlias and other flowers and plants from his on-site garden.

Describe your personal style in one line:
Casual, comfy, cashmere with Jeans, wool coat, silk scarf and always a pair of biker or garden boots…. and these days - a silk mask by Natalie Coleman! 

Favourite Irish brand or Irish-made product:
I’m a big fan of Martina Hamilton jewellery and wear a lot of her silver and rose gold jewellery which is so stunning. I also love the West of Ireland VOYA brand. I always have a candle or their oils burning in the house when I work. They make me feel happy.

What you wish you knew at 18 that you know now…
That we never stop learning and that our path in life is anything but straight ahead. And that’s the beauty of it. 
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To read Leonie's latest piece for us, check out the new issue on sale now.
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#irishcountrymag #gardening #detox #mindandbody #spotlight #contributor #leonie #irishmade #style #travel #food
What are your beauty go-tos? Irish curve model a What are your beauty go-tos?

Irish curve model and diversity in fashion advocate Louise O'Reilly aka @stylemecurvy chatted to us this issue about her beauty loves. 

Her must-haves include Irish brand Skingredients 02 Skin Veg, and says her go-to makeup look is "dewy skin, black liner flick, volume mascara, nude lips, soft peach blusher and a good concealer." 

What are your most reliable products for a quick beauty look? And have you found your beauty habits have changed during lockdown? Have your say on our Instagram Story. 

To read the full interview with Louise, check out the Jan/Feb issue which is on shelves now.

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