Pawternity with your pal

My "pawternity leave" adventure

Welcoming Jimmy to the family

By Seb Brown

As Director of Creative at Sofology, I'm fortunate to lead an amazing team that brings our brand's visual identity to life. But today, I want to share a more personal story - one of family, loyalty, and a new furry friend named Jimmy.

A new beginning

My family has always included dogs; the last 14 years have been about Maggie and Betty. After the loss of our beloved Maggie in 2022, we felt a Maggie-shaped hole in our hearts. We knew it was time to welcome a new companion for Betty, to fill the void left by Maggie. Enter Jimmy, a shy but affectionate puppy who quickly captured our hearts with the first wag of his tail.

Pawternity leave: a helping paw

When Jimmy joined the family, I was grateful for Sofology's "Pawternity Leave" benefit, which gave me a day of paid leave to help settle him into our home. Introducing a pet can be stressful for them, so being able to be home to comfort and reassure them is invaluable. I remember when we first brought Jimmy home; he was a little overwhelmed. Having that extra day to spend with him, helping him get used to his new surroundings, and showing him lots of love and attention made a world of difference.

More than just a dog

Having a puppy after so long (14 years!) was a bit of a shock to the system. We'd forgotten how much work goes into toilet training and teaching them good manners! Jimmy, with his playful personality, needs a lot of attention. The kids have been amazing, spending hours each day playing with him, especially with his beloved tennis ball. It's been a whirlwind of puppy energy, but we wouldn't have it any other way.

Jimmy quickly became an integral part of the family, joining us for walks in the park, snuggling up on the sofa for movie nights, and warming our hearts by watching him run on the beach. He's brought a new level of chaos and laughter to our lives, and we can't imagine our family without him.
For my family, dogs are more than just pets; they're family. They're a massive commitment and add a lot of work to our daily routine. But the affection and unwavering loyalty they provide makes all the tough times worthwhile.

Creative inspiration and wellbeing

As a family, having dogs is a major mood booster in so many ways. They're great company, they ensure you stick to a routine, and of course, they keep you active. Taking them out twice a day gives me quiet time to think, and I often figure things out during those walks. It's amazing how a change of scenery and some fresh air can help clear your head and spark new ideas. Dogs also live in the moment, which helps me switch off from overthinking and worries. Their carefree spirit is contagious!

Pawternity leave: a valuable benefit

The "Pawternity Leave" benefit made settling Jimmy into our family much easier. It allowed us to spend quality time with him while he got used to his new home, ensuring a stress-free transition for everyone. I believe this kind of support is essential for new pet owners, as it allows them to focus on building a strong bond with their new family member without the added distraction of work commitments.

I'm incredibly grateful for this benefit and for Sofology's commitment to creating an environment where we can truly be ourselves and embrace the moments that matter most. Whether it's welcoming a new pet, celebrating a milestone, or navigating life's little surprises, Sofology provides the support and flexibility needed to thrive both personally and professionally.

My advice? Take advantage of these moments. Embrace the opportunities that come your way, both at work and in life. Cherish the time with loved ones, pursue your passions, and never stop growing. Sofology provides the space and support to do just that. Discover your own "Nothing Feels Like" moment and experience the difference of working for a company that cares.

Sebastian's top 5 tips for new puppy parents

Embrace the moments that matter

At Sofology, we believe life’s most treasured moments deserve to be celebrated and remembered. Whether it’s marking a milestone birthday, welcoming a new pet into your family, or taking a week off to enjoy your wedding celebrations, we want you to make memories that last a lifetime. With our ‘Moments that Matter’ benefits - like grandparent leave, pawternity leave, wedding leave, and more - you’ll have the time and support to fully embrace life’s special moments.