Chalky brings pawsitivity to the office

Chalky is a 10-year-old Cattle Dog cross who’s been coming into the office for a year – tail wagging and ready for treats!

“Having Chalky in the office reduces stress and encourages activity throughout the day,” Julie says. “Unfortunately, he’s not the best worker and sleeps most of the day! But he does love a meeting and follows people around throughout the day.”

The company’s pet-friendly policy is casual but considerate. At times, there’s been another office dog on the team, and the owners would simply coordinate which days each pup came in.

“We have one person in the office with allergies, so Chalky doesn’t come in when that person is there,” Julie explains.

She acknowledges that not every workplace or worker is suited to having pets around.

“Pet-friendly workplaces are still the exception these days, but I think there are many environments that would benefit. It takes some structure to make it work, and acceptance that not everyone enjoys the company of animals.”

From Julie’s experience, having pets around helps foster a more connected and relaxed workplace.

“It can improve work-life balance and provide interaction for people who aren’t able to have pets at this time in their life, for whatever reason,” she says. “At the moment I’m the only person at Pepperit with pets, so having Chalky in the office feels like Christmas.”

Julie encourages other workplaces to give pet-friendly policies a go, even on a limited basis.

“It doesn’t have to be an everyday event,” she says. “Even one or two days a week can make a difference for your employees. Start slow and see how it goes.”