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By taking a case-by-case approach, H Properties has effectively balanced the benefits of a pet-friendly workplace with the inclusion of all employees.
Sharing an employer’s perspective on pet-friendly initiatives in the workplace is H Properties, a specialist in property investment and asset management under the Lee Kum Kee Group.
Recognised as a ‘Caring Company’ for the fifth year by the Hong Kong Council of Social Service, H Properties strives to maintain open and transparent communication with its employees about enhancing their work experience while providing appropriate support.
The ‘HAPPIER’ message greeting at the entrance of the office.
“We are not just in the business of property – we are in the business of people. We strive to co-create a happier world through innovative real estate solutions. Our unwavering mission is to create happier places for people to work better, live better, and ultimately feel happier,” the company states.
One notable initiative to achieve this mission is allowing employees to bring their pet friends to work. This idea originated when an employee urgently requested permission to bring her dog to work because she had an important meeting to attend, and her dog was sick and needed to visit the vet.
Reflecting on the company’s principle – ‘Si Li Ji Ren (思利及人)’ – which means to think from others’ perspective and care about others’ feelings – it has adopted a case-by-case approach to approve the employee’s request to bring the dog to one of its Hong Kong offices – specifically, a flexible workspace named Happy Moment @Infinitus Plaza on 6/F, Infinitus Plaza, which is a pet-friendly commercial complex managed by H Properties in Sheung Wan.
One of H Properties' Hong Kong offices, located at Infinitus Plaza.
The positivity and happiness the dog brought to the office on the day made the company realise that allowing owners to bring their beloved pets to work, and spending as much time with them as possible, can create a more relaxing work environment, ultimately boosting morale and fostering a culture of inclusivity and compassion.
However, the company acknowledges that challenges can arise, such as some employees fearing animals, and the potential noise that pets can create, which may be disruptive.
To balance the need for maintaining a conducive working environment, H Properties has strict guidelines for pet-owning employees to follow. In cases where an employee objects to being around animals, the company will discuss with the pet owner a solution that allows for appropriate distancing. For example, designated pet areas will be where pets are allowed, ensuring that employees who are uncomfortable can avoid those spaces.
“To show respect for one another, it is important for us to engage in conversations with both sides and to be mindful of each other’s feelings,” the company says.
“Lee Kum Kee Group strives to be the most trusted enterprise for a healthier and happier world beyond 1,000 years. As a member of the Lee Kum Kee Group, H Properties is committed to co-creating a happier world through innovative real estate solutions.
"Aligned with this vision, we are in the process of refining these initiatives and reviewing our facilities and accessories to better support our employees as pet owners.”
The H Properties 'HAPPIER' team in Hong Kong – committed to 'Creating Happier Communities Together'.
ALSO READ: The ‘paw-er’ of pets in the workplace: Do employees benefit from their furry colleagues?
This article first appeared in the H1 2025 edition of Human Resources Online's Hong Kong e-magazine. View the e-magazine here, where you'll find power-packed features and interviews with leaders across various sectors!
All photos / Provided (Lead: H Properties is partnering with SPCA to enhance Infinitus Plaza's pet-friendly workplace initiatives.)
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