Bringing Pawsitivity to the Workplace: Puppy Therapy at Mobay Centre

At the Montego Bay Convention Centre, we’re known for executing high-profile events with precision. But behind every seamless experience is a team that deserves the same level of care. This Mental Health Awareness Month, we pressed pause — not on excellence, but on routine — to make space for something softer.

Enter: Puppy Therapy

Curated in collaboration with True Pet Food and Local Kennel Clubs, this wellness activation invited our team to step outside of their inboxes and into something more instinctive: connection, laughter, and the unexpected calm of a wagging tail.

Yes, our venue hosts global events. But we also host what matters internally: joy, empathy, and emotional well-being.

More Than a Moment — A Message

What might look like a mid-day break was actually a bold statement: wellness is part of the workflow. Animal-assisted therapy isn’t just cute — it’s impactful. And whether it’s puppies, kittens, rabbits, or even goats, the science backs what we felt in real time: presence. Lightness. Release.

“The experience made my heart smile and brought out my inner child.” said Denisha Ross-Dixon, Head of Operations. “It’s always interesting to observe how dogs react to humans and the instant bond they create.”

We witnessed that bond unfold in real-time. Laughter floated down the hallways. Shoulders dropped. Smiles stayed long after the fur babies left.

^{_{Director of Finance Weneisa Wright shares a joyful pause with a four-legged visitor during MBCC’s Puppy Therapy experience — wellness, with heart.}}

Team Reflections: When Culture Is More Than a Catchphrase

“It was a heartwarming boost during a busy season,” said Christina McKenzie, Event Manager.

“Shoutout to the marketing team for such a meaningful and adorable gesture. It gave us the break we didn’t know we needed.”

_{Event Manager Christina McKenzie and Marketing & PR Manager Kristofferson Nunes connect with Puppy Boop Boop during MBCC’s Puppy Therapy activation — proof that care, culture, and calm can all share the same room. Captured by Sleek Jamaica.}

Michelle Reid, MBA, Senior Event Manager, added:

“Those fur babies came in and instantly lightened the mood of the office. The empathy they bring is unmatched.”

And Leonie Jackson-Johnson, Executive Assistant, summed it up perfectly:

“Come back? Yesss. Anytime!”

_{Sales Manager Sanjae Miller enjoys a quiet moment of connection during MBCC’s Puppy Therapy activation — where care and culture meet.}

Sanjae Miller BSc. (Hons), Sales Manager & Client Strategist, shared her own take:

“Today’s office visitors were extra fluffy and full of love. We were treated to a gentle reminder that wellness includes emotional care, connection, and joy. Grateful for initiatives like these that support mental well-being in the workplace.”

Finally, from the top:

“It was truly heartwarming to see the joy this simple act of care brought to the team,” said Mureen James, MSc, JP, Executive Director.

_{Executive Director Mureen James and Puppy Milo share a joyful moment during MBCC’s Puppy Therapy experience — a heartfelt highlight of Mental Health Awareness Month.}

“At MBCC, we are committed to creating a supportive environment where mental and emotional wellbeing are a priority. Let’s continue to make room for kindness, wellness, and of course — puppy love.”

A Culture Designed with Intention

This wasn’t a gimmick. It was a gesture grounded in empathy and excellence. The same energy we pour into every event is the energy we bring inward—to our people, our culture, and our purpose.

At the Montego Bay Convention Centre, we don’t just host events.

We host what’s next.

And that includes new ways of showing care, building culture, and setting a standard for what a modern Caribbean workplace can look — and feel — like.

Wellness isn’t a perk here. It’s part of the plan.

#MBCCExperience #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #WorkplaceWellness #TruePetFood #PuppyTherapy #TeamCulture #MontegoBayConventionCentre #LeadershipWithHeart #SoftnessIsPower #WhereItAllHappens