Meet Buddy

Breed:  Toy/Miniature Poodle

Barking from:  Hamilton

What's up dog?

Buddy - the hybrid poodle who patrols the offices at North End Law. He was originally hired (along with his handler) to perform therapeutic duties in the office with the goal of improving all-round mental health in the office space. Like all of us here his role is forever changing and as time has progressed so has Buddy’s responsibilities. His daily cuddles have evolved to individual morning greetings to each staff member resembled by a paw tap on the leg. His cleaning routine which predominantly started solely to his own self has now extended to the staff room and beyond with no morsel of food left untouched.

His barks signalling incoming babies or fellow canines in the vicinity have escalated to barks which represent any form of movement coming in from the front door effectively making the ‘ring me bell’ redundant. To limit Buddy’s special talents would be to liken him to a one trick pony which he most certainly is not. Be it an approaching client or significant weather event Buddy will always alert us with a prompt bark, should the approaching client have a baby then Buddy's excitement levels borderline hysteria much to the office's enjoyment. Buddy’s foresight is second to none even compared to those of us with the most acute of senses.

To this day Buddy's internal clock has never faltered and he can always be seen in his allocated seat at the morning tea table at 10:30am sharp waiting for his well deserved cheese portion. If Buddy was to win the Office Dog of the Year then he would truly be running with the big dogs!

2024 NZ Top Office Dog Award

Judging and criteria

This award will be judged on:

Purpose

Four-legged support can be shown in multiple ways and furry forms in the workplace, and this award celebrates a supreme dog that supports their people to do their best mahi. We are looking for a top office dog with tail wags, affectionate licks, playful walks and that special presence that boosts their owner and co-worker’s mental health while contributing to a positive work culture. They may be a work from home dog, an office dog – or a hybrid pooch! 

Reach

Is the dog dedicated to improving the life of one human, or an entire team?

Impact

How big an impact does this dog have in the workplace? Explain how much your canine friend has improved mental health at work or office culture, and give examples of how they have made an impact. 

Quirky

All dogs are special. Does your dog possess a superpower? Please note their special talent or a trick they perform on demand.