Meet Maika

Breed:  Catahoula Cross

Barking from:  Auckland

What's up dog?

Maika is a SPCA alumni turned part time AUT office-dog (some days she's busy playing with her friends on pack walks, because work-life balance is important!). With her very own To Do list on the whiteboard, and usually the only one to tick off all her tasks, she's a valued member around the office. She makes sure that no snacks go uneaten, that the humans get some fresh air and stretch their legs at lunch, and that all the cardboard is well shredded for recycling. She used to be in charge of writing the minutes for meetings, but she kept eating the pens so that task was delegated to someone with thumbs. Her most important job, however, is undoubtedly providing cuddles to all the humans around the office. Being a scientist is stressful and everyone appreciates the puppy therapy to brighten their day. Maika is only too happy to oblige and doesn't let her long lanky physique stop her from crawling into the many welcoming laps. Even the students get in on the action when she goes on her walks around campus. Maika loves all the attention and everyone loves to see her so it is a real win-win. All she needs now is some more office dogs to play with while the humans work at solving the big science issues!

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.