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In today’s world, we tend to think of work as something that only humans do. However, when we take a closer look at the world around us, we realize that work is a fundamental aspect of life for both people and animals. Whether it’s the busy bee pollinating flowers, the ant carrying food back to the colony, or the human working at a desk, all of us are workers in our own way.
Animals have been working since the beginning of time and developed unique skills and abilities to help them survive in the wild. Birds for example, build nests to raise their young, while beavers construct dams to create habitats for themselves and other animals. Many creatures also have specialized roles within their communities. For example, bees work together to collect nectar and pollen, while ants labour effectively to gather food for their complex colonies.
Similarly, humans have been working for thousands of years. From hunting and gathering in ancient times to working in factories and offices today, humans have always been driven by a desire to create, innovate and improve their lives. Society has been shaped by all the work we do, have done, and will do in the future, thus being instrumental in driving progress and our understanding of the world around us.
While humans and animals work in different ways, there are many similarities in the skills and attitudes that we bring to our work. Both people and animals need to be diligent, focused, and committed to finishing tasks. We also need to be able to adapt and continue to work as circumstances change and at times work as a team to achieve our goals.
The difference between human and animal work is the purpose behind this work. Animals work to survive and thrive in the natural world, while humans mostly work to create value, innovate, and improve their lives and hopefully the lives of others too. Today, unfortunately, there are many humans who are also working, just to survive. Sadly, jobs are scarce and the cost of living is very high, making life difficult for so many. There are however organizations working together to assist those in need and bring a bit of relief to many families.
As we think about workers, it’s important to consider those who may not come to mind initially. What about service animals? These highly trained animals work tirelessly to help people with disabilities or assist firemen, and the police force, and assist with public safety.
Guide dogs are an excellent example. These highly trained animals are essential to their handlers, providing not only assistance with mobility but also an abundance of emotional support too. They undergo extensive training to learn how to navigate their surroundings, avoid obstacles, and how to respond to their handlers’ commands. These amazing animals are true partners to their handlers, working together to achieve a level of independence that would otherwise be impossible.
Police dogs and fire dogs serve alongside humans to protect and serve. They receive rigorous training in areas such as tracking missing people or people on the run, bomb detection, and apprehension of suspects. They too provide their handlers with comfort and companionship during long and challenging shifts. It is important to recognize that service animals are not just pets but highly trained workers that provide critical services to their handlers and society in general. Like ANY worker, they deserve to be treated with respect and given the proper care and training needed to excel in their roles.
How about corporate companies recognizing the value of these beautiful, caring animals by sponsoring some branded furry workers' items? There are dog leashes and harnesses and even high-vis bandanas. These can all be used to alert people that a service dog is present and should not be disturbed or petted. There are lovely folding dog bowls and treat bags too, which can be branded with a company logo, creating brand awareness, and also showing support.
We all have a role to play in our communities and ecosystems, and we are ALL workers. We also ALL need each other and should take care of one another. By recognizing and celebrating the work of all creatures, great and small, we can come to appreciate the diversity and complexity of the natural world and the human experience.
This month of May, let us all show our “workers” some love and appreciation. Employers, treat your employees with a branded gift and let them know that they are valued, and seen and that their work is appreciated. A company-branded water bottle, a little box of sweet treats with a “thank you for your work” card, and a branded cooler bag, filled with biscuits, coffee or hot chocolate sachets, and marshmallows for when times get tough, will bring comfort and smiles to those who are struggling. Giving each employee a company-branded T-shirt, with an uplifting slogan, is a great way to show employees appreciation. Examples of these could be “Working as a Team”, or “Team Work is Dream Work”, or “There is nothing impossible for workers. We know how to make impossible things possible.” These T-shirts can be worn each Friday to create a bit of fun in the workplace.
Please contact us for ALL your gifting ideas. Make those workers feel appreciated and valued, ALWAYS. Contact us should you need assistance with ideas and please visit our website for further inspiration. Thank you for your time.
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