Meet your new favourite coworker: Business Buddies program pairs workplaces with shelter dogs

Dog in a doorway in an office
Honey is one of the many adoptable dogs at Winnipeg Animal Services

Winnipeg businesses can now help give a dog a break from shelter life while having a paw-sitive influence on staff.

Do you wish you had a coworker who is always happy to be at work, won’t gossip, and raises morale? Look no further than Winnipeg Animal Services’ new Business Buddies program.

“We’re so excited to bring this program to local businesses,” said Zoe Austin, General Manager of Winnipeg Animal Services. “This is a great way for people to experience the wellness that comes with being around dogs. And it gives the dogs some much-needed time outside of the shelter where they can just be dogs.”

By bringing a dog to your office for an afternoon, you’re supporting shelter dogs and brightening your workplace, one four-legged intern at a time. And if one of your staff would like some extra time with the new hire, there’s an option to take the dog home overnight.

Benefits of having a Business Buddy

This program provides shelter dogs with a supportive environment to socialize, while boosting workplace morale and building stronger teams. Being out in the community also helps the dogs meet new people and potentially meet their new family.

“The enrichment the dogs get out of this program is so, so valuable to the dogs,” said Austin.

A dog spending the day at the office as part of the Business Buddies program
The Business Buddies program helps give dogs a break from shelter life while having a paw-sitive influence on staff

How the program works

If your business is interested, up to four designated employees can visit us during operating hours or contact 311 to inquire about your new favourite furry coworker. ID and proof of employment is required. We’ll ask you some questions to find out about what the work environment is like, and match a dog based on their personality.

Your new Business Buddy can stay with you for an afternoon or for up to a week. We’ll provide all necessary supplies.

Work from home? No problem! Our Doggie Dates program is still available for you to take out a friend for up to a week.

Learn more about the program and meet your new coworker today!

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