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A manager at a Dodo Pizza outlet in Chelyabinsk has decided to leave the company following a dispute that gained significant public attention. The controversy erupted after a courier was dismissed for reportedly helping a stray dog during work hours.

Manager's Departure Amidst Pressure

Gosha Zosidze, the head of Dodo Pizza in Russia and Central Asia, announced the manager's decision to resign via the company's official Telegram channel. Zosidze stated that the manager, identified as Yulia, made the decision voluntarily and is taking the situation very hard. He noted that she had faced considerable pressure and intimidation on social media in the days following the incident.

"Manager Yulia has decided to leave the company. She is taking the situation very hard and truly regrets what happened. We understand her decision: she faced pressure and threats, and she needs time and peace. Despite everything, we will support her during this difficult period. On behalf of the company, we ask for the pressure to stop and for her personal life to be respected," Zosidze wrote.

Company Acknowledges Policy Shortcomings

Zosidze also took responsibility on behalf of the company, admitting that the incident highlighted a lack of flexibility in applying internal rules to non-standard situations. The initial conflict began when courier Mikhail Savitsky was fired. Savitsky claimed his dismissal was a direct result of him providing care to a stray dog named "Dodobonya," which had been living near the pizzeria for over six months and was previously looked after by staff.

According to Savitsky, after a change in management, employees were forbidden from assisting the animal. When he covered the dog with a blanket during a cold spell, he received notification of his termination.

Dodo Pizza's Response and Future Plans

Dodo Pizza, however, stated that the dismissal was due to a series of labor discipline violations, including lateness and unexcused absences, not solely related to the dog incident. The company acknowledged communication failures in handling the situation and issued an apology to the employee. The case sparked widespread public debate and criticism online.

Following the public outcry, the stray dog was found and taken to a shelter. Dodo Pizza committed to covering all costs associated with its care and veterinary treatment, including adoption expenses. The company also reached out to the courier to apologize and express readiness to resolve the situation. The pizzeria manager was temporarily suspended before her eventual resignation became known.

In response to the controversy, Dodo Pizza announced plans to develop a more pet-friendly approach in its establishments and expand support for animal shelters.