Paws 4 thought on Queen Mary 2

We heard from Charles Stewart, Human Resources Manager, Queen Mary 2 about a pawsome crew event!

During a recent Transatlantic crossing, due to US border force changes, many crew members had to remain on board for a New York turnaround.

Crew Welfare Officer, Lance, arranged for six adorable puppies to come on board as a stress reliever, bringing a much-needed dose of joy and excitement to the crew who couldn’t go ashore.

For two and a half hours on that Saturday afternoon, crew had the opportunity to meet and interact with the puppies. From the moment the puppies arrived on the gangway, they were met with eager crew members. The crew followed the puppies ready to welcome them out their cages.

The Chelsea tender lounge had been meticulously prepared by the on board Kennel master, Oliver, to ensure it was puppy-ready. Signs and guidelines were in place to remind the crew to stay calm, but the excitement was palpable.

Both the puppies and the crew seemed to sense that this was going to be a special experience.

Once everything was set up and ready, the puppies were released, and the crew began to flood in. The atmosphere in the room was one of pure, unbridled joy. Crew members took turns petting, playing with, and loving the puppies. Laughter echoed through the lounge, and the stress and tension that had built up over the past few days seemed to melt away.

The interaction with the puppies proved to be a significant morale booster. The room was filled with smiles and laughter, and it was clear that the event was a resounding success. Many said they were looking forward to the next event like this.

As the event drew to a close, a final announcement was made, giving the crew one last chance to hold and cuddle the puppies before the ship set sail again that afternoon. Many crew members returned for a final goodbye, cherishing the moments they had spent with their new furry friends.

This event, a first of its kind, proved to be a true success. It turned around a challenging day for the crew, offering them a unique and heartwarming experience. The joy and relief brought about by the puppies left a lasting impression, demonstrating the powerful impact that animals can have on human well-being.

The “Paws 4 Thought” event aboard the Queen Mary 2 was a testament to the creativity and compassion of the ship’s management. By bringing puppies on board, they provided the crew with an unforgettable experience that not only alleviated stress but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and joy. It was a day that highlighted the importance of finding innovative ways to support and uplift those who work tirelessly at sea.