Tasmania’s Top Dogs Revealed: 2 Pooches Compete for OZTOPDOG 2025 Glory

The wait is over! people2people Recruitment, in partnership with Dogs Connect, is thrilled to announce the finalists for the 2025 OZTOPDOG competition and launch the public voting for the coveted People's Choice Award.

Now in its landmark fifth year, OZTOPDOG celebrates the incredible dogs who bring joy, comfort, and camaraderie to offices and home workspaces across the nation. From loyal office companions to hardworking service dogs, the finalists truly make the workplace a happier, healthier place.

This year's theme, "Dogs at Work," highlights the growing role of canine colleagues in reducing workplace stress, improving morale, and combating isolation - vital benefits at a time when more than 75% of Australians report moderate to very high stress levels.

New research from people2people reveals:

• Despite only 14% of workplaces having dogs, 60% of employees say dogs boost morale even more than Friday drinks.
• 76% say dogs ease feelings of isolation when working remotely.
• Yet, 28% of workplaces have recently reduced or scrapped dog-friendly policies.
• A remarkable 3 in 10 employees would consider a pay cut to bring their dog to work every day — with 62% accepting a 5% cut and 20% willing to give up free snacks and coffee instead.
• Other benefits employees would forgo for dog-friendly policies include gym/wellness stipends (19%) and flexible working hours (7%).

"These findings underscore how much dogs mean to employees' wellbeing and work satisfaction," said Mary Savova, Recruitment Manager at people2people. "With OZTOPDOG, we want to celebrate these amazing dogs and inspire workplaces to embrace the positive impact they bring."

Meet the 2025 OZTOPDOG Finalists!

Every dog nominated is a finalist in the People's Choice Award, making every wag of the tail count. Now it's time for the public to decide who will take home the People's Choice. Voting is open now, and closes at 9am AEST on Wednesday the 27th of August 2025. Cast your vote at www.people2people.com.au/oztopdog. Winners will be announced on Wednesday the 27th of August 2025 at 12.30pm AEST - streaming live across Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, X, and Instagram. Award Categories in 2025:

• Top Office Dog: For dogs who lift office spirits every day
• Top Dog with a Job: For working dogs or community helpers
• People's Choice: Open to every entrant and decided by public vote

TAS OZTOPDOG Finalists:

Blink

Category: 2025 Top Dog With A Job

Breed: Miniature Fox Terrier

Suburb: Rosetta

Born blind, Blink is the best assistance dog I could wish for, guiding me through medical appointments, sensing subtle changes in my body, and providing calm support when I need it most. Once a therapy dog bringing joy to hospitals, aged care facilities, and schools, she now continues to brighten lives with her loving nature, trusting partnership, and signature toothy smile.

Pipsqueak The Super Longstocking 

Category: 2025 Top Dog With A Job

Breed: Border Collie (not purebred)

Suburb: South Arm

Pip is my psychiatric assistance dog, helping me navigate daily life in society, but she's also a beloved family dog, a care companion for our elderly neighbour, and a well-known community favourite with an impressive bag of tricks. Around here, people know me simply as "Pip's Human," a title I'm humbled and proud to own.

To vote go to: https://www.people2people.com.au/oztopdog

PR Contact:  Lisa Solomons | 360 PR | e: lisa@360pr.com.au | p: 0416 175 518