A New Era of Workplace Support: Otsuka Corporation Welcomes Facility Dog “Riku”
The Japan Assistance Dog Association is delighted to announce a significant milestone in the integration of assistance dogs into corporate environments. On July 28, 2025, Otsuka Corporation officially welcomed a facility dog named “Riku” to its offices, marking a pioneering step towards enhanced employee well-being and productivity.
This initiative, spearheaded by the Japan Assistance Dog Association, aims to explore and demonstrate the profound positive impact that trained assistance dogs can have within the workplace. Riku, a highly trained and certified facility dog, is expected to play a multifaceted role in supporting the staff at Otsuka Corporation.
Facility dogs are distinct from service dogs or therapy dogs, being specifically trained to work in various environments and provide consistent support to a wide range of people. Riku’s presence at Otsuka Corporation is anticipated to offer a calming influence, reduce stress, and foster a more positive and engaging work atmosphere. Studies have consistently shown that interaction with dogs can lower blood pressure, decrease feelings of loneliness and anxiety, and boost overall mood.
The Japan Assistance Dog Association has meticulously prepared for this integration, ensuring Riku is equipped with the necessary skills and temperament to navigate a busy office setting. This includes rigorous training in obedience, public access manners, and understanding various workplace cues. Otsuka Corporation has also undertaken thorough preparations to create a welcoming and safe environment for Riku and its employees, including designated resting areas and clear guidelines for interaction.
This collaboration represents a forward-thinking approach by Otsuka Corporation to employee welfare and demonstrates a commitment to innovative solutions for workplace well-being. The presence of Riku is not only a testament to the evolving understanding of the human-animal bond but also a practical application of how this bond can contribute to a healthier and more supportive professional life.
The Japan Assistance Dog Association expresses its deepest gratitude to Otsuka Corporation for their partnership and commitment to this groundbreaking endeavor. We are confident that Riku’s presence will bring immense joy and benefit to the Otsuka Corporation team, setting a precedent for future facility dog placements in corporate settings across Japan. We eagerly anticipate observing the positive developments and sharing further insights from this inspiring initiative.
AI has delivered the news.
The answer to the following question is obtained from Google Gemini.
日本補助犬協会 published ‘【企業ファシリティドッグ】大塚商会へ出勤！’ at 2025-07-28 03:24. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.