An inexpensive company perk that can have a big impact on worker happiness is allowing pets in the workplace.
More companies are welcoming pets in the workplace. The most common pets at work are dogs or cats. Sharing your workplace with a pet has been shown to have a positive impact on happiness, decrease stress, boost morale and even increase motivation and productivity.
However, implementing a pet friendly workplace does have obstacles. The “bring your pet to work”idea may sound great to some but dreadful to others. First it is important to make sure everyone agrees with the idea. It is especially important to talk to employees who don’t have pets and hear their opinions. If everyone agrees to give pets at work a try, then you need to set some ground rules.
- Will pets be on a leash, except when in an office with the door closed?
- Is there a place to walk dogs close to your workplace?
- How will you manage meal and potty breaks?
- What happens if a pet is aggressive, loud, damaging furniture or otherwise becomes an unwelcome guest?
- Start slow by allowing pets 1 – 2 days per week
- Consider how many pets will be coming to the office and ask staff to alternate week to week to keep the numbers reasonable
- Designate certain areas as pet free – board room, lunch room, …
- Set up a bed for your pet so they have a safe place to rest
- Establish a trial period and review success of the “bring your pet to work” program
Read about 8 companies that make a dog friendly environment work.
