We want you to know that we support Black Lives Matter and the peaceful protests that are happening in Philadelphia and across the country. Racial prejudice represents a disregard for basic human rights that has no place in our communities or country, and certainly not at Doggie Style Pets.
Up until now we have remained relatively silent on the issue. This has been in part because we felt that contributing another vague statement of solidarity would be a disservice to the movement. We recognize it's important to have this dialog amongst friends, family and co-workers — but what we want to see is actionable change.
The time for silence is over.
There are things within our scope that can make a positive difference in the ongoing fight against racial discrimination, socioeconomic inequality and police brutality. We are making a commitment to prioritize initiatives in our workplace and forge partnerships that we hope will do just that.
Corporate Policies
We have always had clear anti-racism, fairness language in our policies and procedures, and are committed to expand diversity within the pet industry. Furthermore, we are implementing a cultural sensitivity and awareness training program into our new employee orientation and on-going staff training.
- We recognize voting as a primary engine for change. We are now offering 2 hours paid time off for voting on any election day.
- We believe raising minimum wage is essential for advancing civil and human rights today. We have committed to raising our minimum to $14.00 in 2020 and $15.00 in 2021.
Corporate Sponsorships
We have allocated two grooming apprentice program slots for underserved individuals. We have always valued the strength of diversity in our staff and this sponsorship will offer individuals the opportunity to learn one of the most in demand skills in the pet industry.Donations
The principal owners of Doggie Style Pets have donated to Black Lives Matter, Police Athletic League and are lifetime members of the NAACP.
We are pleased to announce we have donated the entire third floor space of our home office to The Hand2Paw Foundation.
Hand2Paw works with “opportunity youth” in Philadelphia that are experiencing housing insecurity or aging out of DHS care. Participants are likely to have faced adversity and life experiences that have made their path toward adulthood particularly difficult, including, but not limited to: poverty, trauma, oppression, homelessness and/or foster care.
Program participants are given the opportunity to work with rescue animals and realize their capacity for creativity, resilience, and dedication to themselves and others. They plan to utilize the space at 315 Market St. for programs related to their mission and will also foster cats for ACCT.
As we look toward the future, we see our employees as critical voices and will continue to have conversations about these important topics. We want our company to be a contributor toward a sustainable transformation that will allow every black person the social, economic, and political power to thrive.