The mental well-being of its employees is a top priority at Discovery; the insurance and investment group has partnered with Woodrock Animal Rescue's Paws@Work initiative to allow employees at its Sandton headquarters to relieve stress by interacting with therapy pooches once a week.
With various world-class support programmes in place, the forward-thinking company recently introduced the new initiative at their 1 Discovery Place calling it Puppy Therapy Thursdays!
Research has proven that, from a neuroscience perspective, animals increase the release of feel-good hormones serotonin, endorphins and oxytocin. They keep our minds clear, make us smile and laugh, help us relax, reduce stress, and lower our symptoms of depression.
Woodrock Animal Rescue, a leading non-profit, pro-life, rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming shelter in Johannesburg, joins the company onsite at 1 DP to give staff the chance to experience the calming and joyful effect of interacting with dogs and puppies.
Proof that it’s working - a feedback poll indicated that a “staggering 98% of employees who participated in puppy therapy would recommend it to a colleague.”
@woodrockanimalrescue And… we’re back! ???? ???? #pawsatwork is back at @discovery_sa EVERY Thursday as part of our mental health awareness program ????????? ‘Paws At Work’ allows your company/ business ‘s staff members to take a small break and enjoy the benefits dogs have on our mental health. Interacting with dogs has been found to increase the levels of oxytocin (the bonding hormone) and serotonin (the feel-good hormone), which can help reduce stress and promote feelings of calm and happiness. ?????????? Dogs also provide companionship and unconditional love, which can help combat loneliness and depression. ???????? If you’d like to find out more about our Paws At Work Program please contact community@woodrockanimalrescue.co.za ???? #SAMA28 #pawsome #dogsoftiktok #mentalhealthawareness #dogtok ? Dream - Alex Lustig
You can follow Paws@Work on Facebook!
