Last week, in celebration of National Dog Week, the innovative HR team at GWU Hospital hosted a creative two-day event called “Pause for Paws.” Sponsored by the hospital’s Strategic Employee Engagement Council, the event was designed to offer staff a fun and relaxing break featuring adoptable rescue puppies.

To make sure every employee could join in on the fun, “Pause for Paws” featured not just one, but two sessions, one during the day and another in the evening. Unlike most morale-boosting events that only happen between 9 and 5, this thoughtful scheduling gave every hardworking team member, from custodial staff to food service, inpatient care, emergency room, logistics, and beyond a chance to experience the uplifting magic of Puppy Love!

In partnership with our fantastic rescue collaborator, Lost Dog and Cat Rescue Foundation, puppies were brought in especially for the evening event to support the hardworking hospital teams covering 24/7 operations.

And what happened next? The buzz spread fast, and soon lines were stretching out the door as eager employees waited their turn to cuddle, play, and recharge with our lovable pups in the hospital auditorium. The wait was short, but the impact was huge: those few minutes of puppy-powered happiness brought smiles, comfort, and priceless moments of relief to everyone who participated.

When morale is this high, teams innovate, collaborate, and thrive. The staff at GWU Hospital left the event energized and already counting down to the next visit from Puppy Love DC. Huge thanks to GWU Hospital for showing their people just how much their happiness and well-being matter!