More and more companies are beginning to recognize the benefits of permitting pets in the workplace. A variety of businesses, from tech and marketing to even health companies, support a dog-friendly workplace.
According to the Society of Human Resource Management, 7 percent of employers allow pets to come to work with their owners, which is a 5 percent increase from 5 years ago.
In honor of National Pet Day on April 11, we’ve fetched a list of stats to help you convince your boss to go pro-puppy. (Sorry, cat people, we're a canine company.)
Just like at home, dogs can have a positive impact on the workplace. Studies prove that having a four-legged, furry friend at the office:
- reduces stress
- boosts employee morale
- encourages hard work
Here are just a few reasons you should have man’s best friend by your side on the job.
Determined to bring your dog to work? Visit Dog-Friendly's site for a list of companies with open pet policy's in the U.S.
Office Etiquette
Just because your company has a pet-friendly policy doesn’t necessarily mean your dog is office-friendly. Your pup must be clean, sweet and well-behaved. Before bringing in your pup, consider the following:
- Your pooch should be trained (ahem, potty trained) and good with other people.
- You should dog-proof your office space by removing any plants that are harmful to dogs, taking out your trash, cleaning up lost office supplies (e.g. staples, paper clips, etc.) from around your desk. Dogs are like Dyson vacuums; no matter what they find, they will suck it up.
- Pack your dog’s essentials: treats, a leash, a dog bed or blanket, chew toys and doggie waste bags.
- Groom your pet before bringing him/her to the office. Flying furballs not only make a mess, but they may also stir up your colleague’s allergies.
- Most importantly, you should still get your work done. Having your dog at work does not excuse you from your responsibilities and your dog should not distract your co-workers from theirs. On the other hand, don’t ignore your dog. Take him/her out regularly for a quick walk and bathroom break.
- Oh, and don't forget to pick up after your pooch. Bosses and colleagues don't appreciate stepping in you-know-what.
Rethinking Your Office's No-Pet Policy?
If you already work at a business that allows pets, lucky you! However, if after reading this you are on a mission to make your workplace dog-friendly, keep a few things in mind. (Judging by this picture, our boss is definitely rethinking our pro-pet policy!)
A pet-friendly policy at work, just like an unlimited vacation policy, should not be taken for granted. You must be cognizant of your co-workers and clients’ feelings, and always keep your pet safe. It must also be attuned with your company’s culture. Oh, and barking and slobbering should be kept to a minimum. Nobody likes getting their hand caked in sticky dog saliva.
Editor's note: This post was originally published in June of 2015. It has been updated for freshness and accuracy.
