New Employee Refuses To Attend Halloween Party Because It Was Dog-Friendly Event

Is it unreasonable to skip a company party because of dogs?

Lakeisha

• Published in Interesting
• January 5, 2023

Reddit user Noworkpartyaita is a relatively new employee at a company where the CEO hosts an annual Halloween party. The party is well-attended, with hundreds of people, including employees, friends, and family in attendance.

It features catering, an open bar, and raffle prizes. Noworkpartyaita received an invitation to the party in September and was free to attend, but upon examining the invitation more closely, he noticed two things that made him hesitant to go.

Firstly, the invitation included a picture of dogs from the previous year's party, and secondly, it stated that furry friends were invited. Noworkpartyaita has a general dislike of dogs and tries to avoid them whenever possible.

He had even passed on job opportunities in the past when the workplace was dog-friendly and has asked about this in job interviews specifically to ensure he won't be working in a dog-friendly office. Because of these two things mentioned in the invitation, Noworkpartyaita decided not to attend the party.

In the weeks leading up to the party, there was a lot of buzz and excitement among coworkers about the upcoming event. When the party took place this past weekend, Noworkpartyaita was asked where he was, and he explained that he didn't attend because he assumed there would be dogs there.

Some coworkers think that this was an unreasonable reason for Noworkpartyaita not to attend the party, and Noworkpartyaita is wondering if he's an a-hole for not going. Here's what the AITA subreddit members think about the incident.

Here's how it started.

He's hesitant because dogs would be present too. Here's what Reddit thinks.

1. He should have come up with another excuse.

2. Many people can't handle the fact that not everyone likes dogs.

3. His fear of dogs caused him to miss out on a fun party.

4. The matter has become office politics.

5. He doesn't owe his coworkers an explanation.

6. He should have said that he had other commitments.

7. It is understandable since he does not like dogs.

8. He is free to do whatever he wants.

9. Next time, he should prepare a white lie.

10. A white lie would have saved him from his coworkers.

11. It's bad for a new employee to skip their boss's party.

12. Next time, he should attend and only leave if he is not comfortable.

13. Other people's opinions do not count.

14. He did the right thing by telling the truth.

What Do You Think?

It is not unreasonable to skip a company event if you have a genuine fear or allergy to dogs, and attending the event would be a hardship for you.

Your employer needs to accommodate your needs and ensure that you feel comfortable and safe at company events. If you are able to attend the event but would prefer not to be near dogs, you could also try asking if there is a way to accommodate your needs.

It is important to communicate openly and honestly with your employer about your concerns and try to find a solution that works for you and the company.

Lakeisha