Walking the talk: Dogs, wellbeing, and Active Workplaces

Throughout January, the team at GM Moving has been marking #WalkYourDogMonth by getting outside and moving more as part of our day. Claire Marshall shares how encouraging dog walking can create long term health benefits.

Three years ago, we welcomed a four-legged friend into our family; After COVID and the shift to hybrid working, I was home more than ever, but I felt disconnected, inactive, and a bit lost. A knee injury had put an end to team sport I loved, and I needed a new way to move and reconnect with myself. 

I had always loved dogs, but never felt I had the time to dedicate to one.  However, hybrid working meant I was home more. I also wanted to practise what I encouraged at work and get active again. So, when my boys, who had been asking for years, finally got their wish, I said yes. 

In November 2022, we welcomed a Patterdale terrier named Skye into our family. She has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. Beyond her loyalty and love, she has brought a huge boost to my mental and physical wellbeing, helping me get moving and reconnect with life outside the house. 

Walking with my dog has given me fitness, wellbeing, and a real sense of belonging in my community. 

For organisations and employers, this is a reminder that small, consistent activities (like a daily walk or wheel) can make a big difference to staff wellbeing and resilience. Encouraging simple ways to move more, whether through walking, cycling, or taking breaks from your desk, benefits both people and the system. 

Dog walking or wheeling is a simple, accessible way to build regular physical activity into daily life in a way that feel achievable and enjoyable. It supports physical health, mental wellbeing, routine, and connection to local places. These are benefits that matter for people of all ages. 

The Benefits of an Active Workforce 

An active lifestyle brings many benefits. It supports physical and mental wellbeing, reduces health problems, and decreases stress levels. For employers, the advantages are clear: physically active employees take 27% fewer sick days than those who are inactive. For employees, just 90 minutes of activity per week during working hours can translate into a 7.5% increase in earnings. 

An increasing number of employers across Greater Manchester are seeing the benefits of a physically active workforce and are taking steps to make movement part of the working day. Whether it’s encouraging walking meetings, providing access to short exercise breaks, or supporting staff to cycle or walk to work, small changes can make a big difference. 

Explore our Active Workplaces toolkit for practical ways to promote activity at work 

Discover the GM Good Employment Charter, embedding wellbeing into workplace culture.