Too often we hear stories about people mistreating animals. Isn’t it lovely when something like this comes along? A story that is all about love and compassion? YES!
The retail giant, IKEA, now has an open door policy in their Catania, Italy store. The staff opens their doors, with the home store’s cozy furnishings, to stray dogs who would otherwise be on the streets freezing in the cold. Dogs otherwise forced to find shelter where they can, often curled up on cold concrete, shivering miserably, can now rest their weary heads on warm shag carpets, away from Mother Nature’s wrath.
Beppe Liotta via The Dodo
Since the employees allow the dogs in during store hours, customers have the opportunity to see the good deed first hand and their reactions are perfect!
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One reaction to the photo above posted on Instagram says it all!
gscalone82/Instagram
One customer, Martine Taccia, came into the store on a cold autumn day when she suddenly found a group of dogs cozily sleeping in a living room display.
She told The Dodo: “My reaction was pure amazement. It’s not a common thing.”
valeria_antipatico/Instagram
Opening the doors to keep the dogs warm isn’t the store’s only gift! As customers come into the shop, they get to interact with the dogs. Some of the shoppers have decided to then open their homes to the dogs, adopting them into their families. Does it get any better than that?
dako.photo/Instagram
“The dogs receive daily food and pampering from IKEA’s employees and customers,” Taccia said. “Some dogs have even found a family, going home with customers.”
Taccia shared her experience on Instagram and then a search on IG revealed even more touching photos taken by customers.
Even though the store doesn’t advertise its good deeds, it’s apparent that the gesture is impacting the public. Another shopper, Beppe Liotta, told The Dodo: “I felt a feeling of deep tenderness and great happiness in seeing dogs crouched in the exhibition space at the entrance of the IKEA.”
noahromley/Instagram
Liotta, who is a hardcore animal lover, hopes that this will inspire other businesses to do more for the homeless animal population.
“If all the stores that had the space would make a place of refuge for strays, I would be really happy,” he said.
Wouldn’t that be amazing?
What do you think about this particular IKEA’s open door policy? Should more businesses do the same? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section and don’t forget to share this heartwarming story with friends!
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