As more companies prioritize mental health and connection, pet-friendly workplaces are gaining traction among business leaders.
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Dogs make us happy. Our furry best friends help us stay active, provide unconditional love, and are the perfect couch potatoes during a binge-watching session. We call them many things: companions, family members, even fur babies, but co-workers might be a surprising addition. As more companies prioritize mental health and connection, pet-friendly workplaces are gaining traction among business leaders.
Setting clear boundaries. While allowing pets in the office offers numerous proven benefits, the workplace remains a professional environment and should be treated accordingly. Clear guidelines are essential, covering which types of pets are permitted, who is responsible for clean-up, and how to accommodate colleagues with allergies or discomfort around animals. Linda Villalobos of Insperity recommends reviewing building management policies and securing pet-damage insurance before introducing pets into the workplace.
Capitalizing on the benefits. Boosting team morale, reducing stress, and facilitating a stronger work-life balance are just a few benefits that pet-friendly companies are leveraging to improve retention and recruitment. “Nearly half (47%) of the 1,000 dog owners surveyed reported that they expected dog-friendly policies as standard in the workplace, and 23% indicated that having dogs in the office has made it easier to get to know their colleagues. For around a quarter (26%) of owners, their workplace had become dog-friendly in the last one or two years, which they claimed had helped to reduce stress (65%), boost team morale (54%), and improve workplace atmosphere,” Honey Wyatt writes in an article for HR Magazine.
Creative cost savings. The ripple effect of a pet-friendly workplace can even lead to cost savings, both for employees and employers. When staff can bring their dogs to work, they’re less likely to miss time or leave early to handle pet care, resulting in more consistent schedules and higher productivity. Employees appreciate the reduced personal expenses, while employers benefit from improved retention and fewer costs related to hiring and training. “It’s a benefit that does not take a lot of money to implement, yet it can save the employee money in the form of less paid to dog sitters, dog walkers, kennels, etc.,” explains Bridget Miller in a piece for HR Daily Advisor.
