The Benefits of Pet-Friendly Work Policies: 6 Interesting Findings

Image via DALL-E

Pets have always existed in work environments, but their presence has always had some pushback. Art through the millennia is full of depictions of animals in workplaces, not just working animals, but as pets in the modern sense. However, by the 20th century, the advent of modern hygiene and professional standards had effectively slowed down the mainstream inclusion of pets. Fortunately, the pendulum has swung the other way, with more companies now allowing pets in the office—and not just working animals—under certain conditions. 

Research into the subject has been particularly encouraging for the pro-pet camp, with most businesses improving productivity, collaboration, and overall well-being after introducing pet-friendly policies. Here are some findings in favor of pets in the workplace:

1) Enhanced Workplace Productivity

A 2021 metastudy at the Nova School of Business and Economics, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, found that breaks to attend to pets can improve focus and productivity. This goes directly against the common idea that pets are a distraction that detracts from work. 

Several studies examined how brief breaks to care for pets can refresh employees and improve their performance when performing their tasks. Pets also encourage people to step away from their desks, helping mitigate repetitive stress injuries and energizing them throughout the day.

2) Closer Team Collaboration

Pets are often willing to play the role of a conversation starter, breaking down social barriers between colleagues and leading to a stronger sense of community—necessary for better communication and teamwork. 

It’s no wonder that most businesses that introduce pet policies eventually see pets as vital parts of their teams. If you have a furry colleague, check out these custom pet products and find something that shows how much you appreciate their contributions.

3) Reduced Stress Levels

Pets have long been known to reduce anxiety at home, and now it’s clear that they do the same in the workplace. Having a pet nearby can provide emotional comfort for many people, leading to lower stress levels and a more relaxed atmosphere. Some studies even demonstrate a reduction in the stress hormone cortisol, demonstrating the value of pets for keeping the peace in office environments.

4) Improved Employee Morale and Retention

Allowing employees to bring their pets to work usually results in a more welcoming and enjoyable environment if everyone consents. Well-socialized pets can offer companionship to everyone in the workplace, lifting spirits and alleviating stress. Over time, this results in happier employees who may also be less likely to quit.

Since most Americans now own at least one pet, pet-friendly work policies can also significantly convince employees to stay with a company. Many employees view this perk as a sign that their employer shares their values and understands their needs, increasing job satisfaction and positively influencing employee retention.

5) Reduced Absenteeism and Better Work Continuity

If employees can bring their pets to work, they are less likely to take time off to tend to their animals. Employees no longer need to rush home or deal with pet-sitting services to care for their pets, and there’s less reason for them to take leaves to address pet-related responsibilities. If several pet owners are in a team, having a pet policy can even lead to significantly fewer disruptions in the office, resulting in better business continuity.

6) Attracts a Wider Range of Talent

Aside from helping businesses retain the talent they already have, pet-friendly policies are also an appealing way to bring fresh blood into the industry. Many job seekers, particularly from younger generations, prioritize workplaces that afford them a meaningful balance between work and personal life. Among other emerging perks, pet policies are now seen as proof of a progressive and people-oriented organization—something that could help them stand out in a competitive labor market.

Conclusion: Pet-Friendly Success Requires Inclusivity and Understanding

To be clear, pet-friendly workplaces aren’t always possible for health or safety reasons. We probably won’t see pets in surgical theaters, factory floors, or commercial kitchens soon. However, for many other workplaces, implementing such policies can be an easy win for companies seeking to improve employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention. In a time when the links to mental health and pet ownership are more apparent than ever, a well-devised pet policy can become a crucial ingredient in creating a more collaborative and stress-free environment at business headquarters. 

Still, even as the approval of pets in the workplace increases, some real risks and roadblocks remain. As you stay open to the benefits of pets at work, you must remember that not everyone, including employees, will be comfortable with animals. With a more realistic view of the risks, more workable pet policies can be implemented, ensuring that your staff can enjoy their benefits more fully.

Subscribe to our newsletter and explore insightful conversations on workplace culture, burnout, and leadership at the Breakfast Leadership Network, ranked in the top 20 globally. Join us to thrive in the modern work environment.

Please stay connected with us. Check out the Breakfast Leadership Show Podcast for more insights and valuable content. Join our podcast and get inspired by top industry leaders’ leadership lessons and success stories.