Hyderabad Firm Hires Dog As Chief Happiness Officer: How Pets Can Boost Morale

Last Updated:May 30, 2025, 11:16 IST

A Hyderabad-based startup hired Denver, a golden retriever, as its Chief Happiness Officer (CHO) in an effort to improve staff morale and reduce stress at work.

Hyderabad-based tech firm, Harvesting Robotics, has hired a golden retriever named Denver as its Chief Happiness Officer to improve staff morale and reduce stress at work. The co-founder, Rahul Arepaka, introduced their new team member to the internet in a heartwarming LinkedIn post that garnered significant online reactions.

“Meet our newest hire, Denver – Chief Happiness Officer. He doesn’t code. He doesn’t care. He just shows up, steals hearts, and keeps the energy up,” the LinkedIn post read.

“CHO seems exhausted with the responsibility of making everyone happy,” one user chuckled.

“Hey Denver Pawlson, it’s a tough job you hold, pal. I can see the stress showing in your eyes. Need to call on those perks that your JD says you have,” a second comment reads.

Another said, “A cute CHO is all u need to boost up your productivity.”

Not only that, but Denver also has an official LinkedIn page with the following statement: “As Chief Happiness Officer, I lead the charge in creating a positive, inclusive, and energised work environment.”

Pets are recognised to significantly improve a person’s happiness and general well-being. Pets at work can foster relationships, lower stress levels, and increase productivity. Here are five benefits of having pet-friendly workplaces.

Stress Reduction

Pets help employees feel more at ease, reduce anxiety, and create a more tranquil work environment by lowering cortisol levels.

Improves Productivity

Taking brief mental rests with dogs helps employees avoid burnout and return to work with greater energy and focus.

Improves Motivation

Pets provide happiness, friendship, and laughter, all of which can improve team morale and foster a more positive workplace atmosphere.

Promotes Better Work-Life Balance

Bringing pets to work reduces anxiety about leaving them home alone, which enhances everyday contentment and emotional wellness.

Boosts Social Interaction

Pets serve as social catalysts, encouraging stronger team connections, a more cooperative atmosphere, and conversations among coworkers.

Employees who work in pet-friendly surroundings are more likely to stay with their firm, according to research from the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), and 91% say they feel more engaged at work, per the Indian Express. Upon deciding to bring in a pet to enhance the well-being of its employees, Harvesting Robotics was showered with affection and support.

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Delhi, India, India

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