Today we continue our review of pet-friendly companies. This time, we’re stopping in the United Kingdom, where we’ve found several very interesting examples.
Build-a-Bear
This toy company (specifically, stuffed animals), with more than 20 years of history, is one of the most beloved by children… and, by extension, by their parents. It is also loved by its employees, as it has ranked among the prestigious 100 Best Companies to Work For for three consecutive years, according to Fortune’s list. Its love of animals has surely contributed to this—not only stuffed animals, but living, breathing ones too. That’s why pets are welcome. In fact, every year the company’s canine CEO, the adorable Milford, organizes a birthday party to which all employees’ dogs are more than welcome.
The Dogs Trust
This nonprofit organization is dedicated to finding new homes for abandoned pets. So it makes sense that employees’ pets are welcome in the office. But that’s not all: they are also offered dental insurance (an extremely important issue for pets’ well-being, although unfortunately many owners still haven’t fully recognized it), and regular training sessions are held to help the pets socialize with one another.
Firebox
This store offers every kind of gift… as long as you’re looking for something original and surprising. In fact, they describe themselves as “the store that isn’t for everyone.” At the corporate level, the company supports having dogs in the workplace, not only because they have a positive impact and help relieve their owners’ stress, but also because they bring people together, encourage creativity, and are incredibly fun. So much so that dogs take part in meetings and have, so to speak, a symbolic voice and vote.
Next Model Management
This prestigious model and talent agency, founded in 1989 by Faith Kates, has offices in London, Paris, Milan, New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. It is an example of integrating pets into the workplace, as executives and models who own dogs can bring them to the office.
The office provides them with water bowls, as well as a dog rest area. The president of the London office, Amanda Bretherton, is one of the main beneficiaries of this initiative, as she lives with three dogs (2 Pomeranians and a Yorkiepoo), who are now three much-loved members of the office. Likewise, the director of public relations, Katy Moseley, occasionally brings her two Shar-Peis. The creative director of talent, Sarah Leon, does the same, usually bringing her boyfriend’s Spaniel with her. As for the models, Leah Weller is one of those who spends the most time with her Chihuahua, as she takes it everywhere with her.
Among the dogs that frequent Next Model Management, Alfie stands out. Judging by the success of his Instagram profile, he’s quite the influencer.
If you’d like to learn about other examples of companies where pets are welcome, we invite you to join us in Germany, the United States, and, of course, our country, where more and more examples are beginning to appear.