Unleashing holiday cheer: The impact of canine companions in agency life
Kaimera's partnerships manager, Ella Dalton, reflects on the many benefits of bringing dogs into the office, sharing a few key findings from the indie media agency's recent in-house survey.
At Kaimera, we have a unique belief that transcends traditional office norms—we welcome dogs with open arms into our workspace.
While having our furry friends around is plenty of fun, we also acknowledge the challenges they bring; from the occasional bark to dealing with the building manager.
Yet, amidst these challenges, there’s a magic that transforms our office into a haven of productivity and joy.
Pictured: Nick Behr (founder and CEO) with his dog Dash, and Trent McMillan (founder and chief digital officer) with Teddy
In our corridors, where creativity thrives and deadlines drive our pursuit of excellence, an unexpected yet crucial team of canines have seamlessly integrated into our business. Beyond being adorable office residents, these furry allies play a pivotal role in nurturing a positive and creatively charged work environment. Embracing dogs into our workspace isn’t just a warm gesture; it’s a deliberate effort to prioritise positivity among our staff.
Our study shows their presence has a profound impact on our team’s well-being and the cultivation of innovative ideas. Here are some of our findings:
1. A love for dogs at Kaimera
Our workplace resonates with a staggering 97% fondness for dogs, highlighting the alignment between our team’s affinity for these furry companions and their integral role in our workspace’s dynamic.
2. Stress alleviation: easing industry strain
Fortified by academic research, our insights reflect the profound impact of pet interactions in alleviating stress. Studies cite a 63% reduction in stress among team members. Likewise, our survey mirrors an 85% boost in morale and 74% improved social interactions, underscoring pets’ vital role in nurturing a cohesive workspace.
3. Boosting team morale and collaboration
Pets contribute significantly to uplifting mood and fostering unity among team members, as proved by our survey’s 85% surge in morale and 74% improvement in social interactions with colleagues.
Pictured: Ella Dalton and Winter
4. Contributions to job satisfaction and innovation
The Journal of Creative Behaviour aligns with our findings, showcasing a direct correlation between a positive work environment, job satisfaction, and enhanced creativity. Our survey notes a 37% association between office dogs and heightened job satisfaction, coupled with a 48% reported mental well-being boost.
5. Expanded integration for enhanced work dynamics
Employee sentiments echo the value of canine presence, highlighting their unique contribution to workplace atmosphere and team bonding. Discussions arise about their potential involvement in meetings and even conference calls, signaling an eagerness to further integrate them into various work facets.
6. Nurturing well-being and fostering creativity
Research shows dogs have plenty of positive impacts on workplace well-being and creativity. As one team member rightly puts it: “Having dogs around fuels my productivity. They’re not just companions; they’re the carols of our lively workspace.”
Pictured: Ngita Bowers and Teddy
At Kaimera our furry friends embody the spirit of companionship; their presence aligns seamlessly with our pursuit of a happy and innovative workspace.
We stand by our belief – the challenges that come with having dogs in the office pale against the cheer they bring, making everyone merrier and, consequently, nurturing a more joyous and productive workplace.
So, in the spirit of the festive season, we challenge other agencies looking to shake up their culture and productivity to consider opening up the office to their canine friends – it could be the perfect Christmas gift for your team.
Ella Dalton is partnerships manager at Kaimera
