The Office Dog: Benefits of Pets in the Workplace
At Finesse Resources, we recently welcomed our newest employee to the team. Say hello to Buster the Cavapoochon! It got us thinking about the many benefits an office dog can have in a workplace, not just for the owner but for the entire business, and the dog itself. We’ve done some research and drawn on our own experiences to create a list of the biggest benefits that an office dog provides. Take it from us, if you're considering welcoming dogs into your workplace, then you're in for a treat (pun intended).
Here’s why:
Benefits of office dogs for the whole workplace:
- Workplace culture: Dogs have a knack for creating a positive and relaxed atmosphere. As payroll specialists, we go through busy periods at Finesse Resources, but Buster reduces everyone’s stress levels so we all stay positive. Dogs are also natural icebreakers, encouraging employees to interact more with each other.
- Recruitment: A pet-friendly workplace is an attractive perk for many job seekers. It can also help retain current employees who value the companionship of dogs. Offering such benefits can give your company an edge when advertising for new roles.
- Customer sentiment: If you work in a customer-facing environment, a dog is a great way to make customers feel welcome and relaxed. Even if you don’t, sharing office dog updates on your company's social media will help build a connection with your customers and show them what it’s like behind the scenes.
- Creativity: Sometimes, the best ideas come when you're not actively thinking about them. Having a dog around can provide that mental break necessary for creativity to flourish, whether it’s when you’re filling up their water bowl or taking them on a quick lunchtime walk.
- Office attendance: Dogs improve attendance around the office as they make it a more enjoyable and relaxed place to be. They also make it more accessible for dog owners who otherwise may wish to work from home to avoid having to arrange daytime care for their pet.
Benefits for the employees:
- Mental health: When work gets ruff, canine companions are always by your side. They’re excellent listeners and offer unconditional support. They also encourage a better work-life balance by giving gentle nudges (with their nose) to take breaks, go for a walk and disconnect from work for a while.
- Physical health: Regularly walking a dog promotes physical activity, which is great for both you and your canine coworker. It's a win-win situation! At Finesse Resources, our team take it in turns to walk Buster and we sometimes go in groups, which means all of us get some fresh air and time away from the desk.
- Money saving: Most dog owners are fully aware of how expensive doggy day care can be when you rely on it regularly. That’s why employees will really appreciate the cost savings of being able to bring their dogs to work.
- Socialising: Employees who have a shared love of dogs are more likely to socialise with each other. It gives them something in common and means they can bond on a personal level rather than just a professional one.
Benefits for the animal:
- Reduced separation anxiety: Just like humans, dogs can experience stress and anxiety. Having their owner nearby in the office can provide a sense of security and reduce separation anxiety. The presence of coworkers who pet and play with them can also boost their mood.
- Socialisation: Dogs are naturally social animals, and the office provides an excellent opportunity for them to interact with lots of different people. This can help dogs become better adjusted and comfortable around humans.
- Routine and structure: Dogs thrive on routines, and the office environment often follows a structured schedule. This can help dogs establish a routine that includes regular breaks, walks and of course, belly rubs!
Here are a few tips for making your workplace pet-friendly:
- Make sure that all employees are on board with the idea and that nobody has any allergies or other concerns. If allergies are the only concern, some breeds like Poodles and Bedlington Terriers are hypoallergenic.
- Establish some basic rules and guidelines for pet owners, such as keeping their pets under control and cleaning up after them.
- Provide a designated area where pets can and can’t go. You may want to keep important areas like a boardroom or the canteen/kitchen pet-free.
- Make sure that only well-behaved and socialised dogs are allowed in the workplace, and have a plan in place for dealing with any problems that may arise if one does become disruptive.