Should You Allow Pets At Work?

In modern workplaces, small businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to foster a positive and inclusive environment for their employees. 

One such groundbreaking initiative gaining traction is the Pets at Work. 🐾 But what exactly does this entail, and why should companies consider implementing it? 

In this blog, we'll dive into the what, why, and how of a Pets at Work Policy, exploring its potential impact on both employees and businesses. Plus, we've got a pawsome template to help you kickstart this initiative in your workplace!

The Pandemic - Pet Boom

Over the course of the pandemic, a quarter of pet owners surveyed welcomed a new pet into their home. Dogs were the most popular new addition, closely followed by cats. For almost half of these owners (47%) this was their first pet, and new pets were most popular with Londoners and 18-34-year-olds.

And with the return to the office, many pet owners hadn’t thought about what they should do, when we returned to reality. Even people who have had pets for a long time got used to spending more time with their pets during the pandemic, and therefore the separation anxiety was difficult when we began returning to normality.

Why allow pets in the workplace

Implementing a Pets at Work Policy isn't just a feel-good gesture; it can have a tangible impact on your business.

Let's explore why your company might embrace pets at work. 🚀

• Employee Well-being: Numerous studies highlight the positive impact of pets on mental health. 🌟 Allowing pets at work can reduce stress, increase morale, and create a more relaxed atmosphere, ultimately contributing to a happier and more productive workforce.

• Enhanced Job Satisfaction: A Pets at Work Policy can significantly contribute to job satisfaction, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among employees. It's a tangible way for employers to show they care about their team members' happiness.

• Attracting Top Talent: In a competitive job market, companies are always looking for unique perks to attract and retain top talent. A pet-friendly policy sets your company apart, signalling that you prioritise employee happiness and work-life balance.

• Increased Productivity: Contrary to common concerns, allowing pets at work has been linked to increased productivity. 📈 The presence of pets can create a positive work environment, leading to higher job satisfaction and improved concentration among employees.

• Sense of Community: The presence of pets creates a sense of community among employees. Shared pet experiences can break down barriers, encourage social interactions, and build stronger workplace relationships.

• Work-Life Integration: A Pets at Work Policy promotes a healthy work-life integration. By allowing employees to bring their pets to work, you acknowledge the importance of their personal lives, creating a more holistic and balanced work environment.

• Employee Retention: A pet-friendly workplace enhances your company's attractiveness to both current and potential employees. It can significantly contribute to employee retention and recruitment efforts.

• Improved Morale: A happy and engaged workforce translates to improved morale. Increased job satisfaction and a positive work environment contribute to higher levels of motivation and commitment among employees.

• Reduced Absenteeism: Pets have been proven to reduce stress levels. A less stressed workforce is likely to experience lower absenteeism rates and increased overall productivity.

• Positive Public Image: Embracing a Pets at Work Policy can enhance your company's public image. It portrays your organisation as forward-thinking, compassionate, and dedicated to employee well-being.

But there are also cons of allowing pets at work

It’s not always pawfection - here’s the downside:

• Not everyone is a pet lover - many people have pet allergies or phobias and therefore it may cause people to leave, or increase stress for people having to be with pets in the office.

• Risk - You’d need to complete a risk assessment and have some rules around the type of pets and size of pets. You’d also need to check with your landlord that pets are allowed in the building.

• Cost - You may need to up your insurance to ensure you are covered for this. If there were a dog bite or injury, you would be liable as the business owner. The company has a duty of care to keep people safe.

The Need for a Pets at Work Policy

If you decide to allow pets at work, I’d strongly encourage you to have a Pets at Work Policy.

This is a set of guidelines and rules that govern the presence of pets in the workplace which is crucial to ensure a smooth integration of our furry friends into the workplace.

It would include things like defining the types of pets, when they can come in, where they can be etc. and sets the stage for a harmonious coexistence between humans and their four-legged companions. 🐕

Below are some of the details you could include:

• Pet Types and Sizes: Clearly specify the types and sizes of pets permitted in the workplace. This ensures that the policy is fair and addresses potential concerns related to allergies or fear of certain animals.

• Behaviour Guidelines: Establish behavioural expectations for pets, including noise levels, bathroom breaks, and general conduct. This helps prevent disruptions and ensures a stress-free environment for all employees.

• Designated Areas: Define designated areas where pets are allowed. This can include communal spaces, pet-friendly zones, or even pet-free areas for employees who may not be comfortable around animals.

• Health and Safety Measures: Incorporate health and safety measures, such as vaccination requirements and emergency procedures. This demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of both pets and humans.

Implementing a Pets at Work Policy

Once you have your policy, you will need to get buy-in from your staff members through the implementation / roll out process. 

• Landlord: Double check pets are allowed in the building and any rules that are in place, so your policy matches this.

• Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive insurance in place.

• Equipment: Water bowls etc to make the pets feel welcome.

• Leadership Buy-In: Start by gaining leadership support for the initiative. Ensure that key decision-makers understand the potential benefits and are willing to champion the cause.

• Employee Input: Solicit feedback from employees to gauge their comfort levels and preferences. This inclusive approach ensures that the policy is tailored to meet the needs of the entire workforce.

• Education and Communication: Roll out the policy with clear communication and educational sessions. Address common concerns, provide guidelines, and celebrate the positive impact pets can have on the workplace.

Why not start with a Trial Period?

Consider implementing a trial period to assess the impact of the policy. This allows for adjustments based on real-world experiences and feedback from employees.

You can then assess whether this does work for everyone, before making it permanent. This helps to manage expectations and test the waters before committing. 

Making the office great for pets 

The beauty of a Pets at Work Policy lies in its adaptability to make it work for you. Tailor your policy to suit the unique dynamics of your workplace.

Here’s some ideas for you to consider:

• Flexible Schedules: Allow employees flexibility in their schedules to accommodate their pets' needs, such as bathroom breaks or veterinary appointments.

• Pet-Friendly Events: Incorporate pet-friendly events into the company calendar. This could include pet parades, wellness days, or even "Bring Your Pet to Work" days.

• Wellness Programs: Integrate pet wellness into existing workplace wellness programs. This could include on-site pet grooming services, pet insurance benefits, or pet-friendly exercise areas.

• Pet Leave Policies: Consider implementing pet-friendly leave policies for employees who need time off for pet-related responsibilities or emergencies.

Introducing Our Pawsome Pets at Work Policy Template! 🎉

Ready to embark on this exciting journey of creating a pet-friendly workplace? Look no further! 

Grab our comprehensive Pets at Work Policy template which has been designed to save you time creating one from scratch.

In the evolving landscape of the modern workplace, a Pets at Work Policy stands as a beacon of positive change. By embracing the pawsitive influence of our furry friends, companies can create a more inclusive, supportive, and engaging work environment. 🌐