Pets in the Workplace Boost Productivity

Whoever said money couldn’t buy happiness has never owned a pet. If that isn’t good news enough, pets can help make you earn more, too.

We all have different perceptions when it comes to comfort zones. For some of us, our pet is our comfort zone. Having a dog is not always stressful and high maintenance. Once you’ve gotten the hang of training them and are familiar with their bodily routines, taking them almost anywhere with you is possible.

Corporate Canines

If we could, we’d take our best buddy with us wherever we went – including our offices. It has become such a norm to be physically and emotionally attached to dogs that many businesses have loosened up and about taking them to the workplace. Take Your Dog to Work Day is an actual holiday for pets.

I bet no other office perk tops this one.  Dog lovers rejoice!

According to an Entrepreneur article, a few world-class companies that allow pets in the workplace include Amazon, Google and Ben & Jerry’s. They don’t see pets as a nuisance on their site. Instead, they find the pets’ presence productive and professional. Initially introduce them to their new environment slowly, especially in an enclosed office space. Start off with short hours and mini-field trips around the area.

Furthermore, they also share that “The Build-a-Bear Workshop has Milford the Chief Executive Dog, while P&G Petcare has Euka the V.P. of Canine Communications. Tito’s Handmade Vodka carries out pet rescues with employees acting as foster parents for rescued animals. Software company AnchorFree even has a domesticated wolf on its premises!”

Consider your Co-Workers

Before taking your furry buddy to the office, all employees must be on board with any necessary preparations so the dog receives constant rewards and attention needed. Having one mutual pet to care for may improve teamwork and morale. A study from Central Michigan University reveals that dogs in the workplace can build trust between co-workers and that leads to more collaboration among team members.

Set aside a ‘pet-free’ zone for employees who are allergic to pets or are uncomfortable around them. A few people may be allergic to fur or might have a fear/trauma related to dogs. Be considerate, what may bring comfort to you may cause the opposite to your coworker. No one wants to work with their legs tucked under them tightly just in case the dog bites.

There are also those who feel comfortable around pets and who rely on them greatly. In fact, pets (especially dogs) have been trained for years to be human aids and guides, particularly for the visually impaired. In fact, Animal Assisted Therapy is now widely used by hospitals, the disabled and by clinicians.

Human Animal Bond Research Initiative (HABRI) Foundation in Washington, D.C. studies show that Oxytocin is a neuropeptide long known to promote maternal care in mammals and is recognized for its role in bonding, socialization, and stress relief.

Pets may also be the next best solution or help when it comes to mental health therapy.

Code of Conduct for Canines

Basic necessities such as sufficient space and toys (to keep them busy) should already be arranged.

Regular breaks are necessary for you to be able to work without any interruptions. Their breaks and walks with you should be energy consuming enough to tire them out a little so they doze off and behave the next few hours.

Bring food and clean water. Dogs get cranky when they get hungry too. Keep them in tiptop shape by feeding them nutritious dog food.

Orient other employees about your pet’s nutritional needs, like whether or not they have allergies and if giving of treats are okay.

Ensure that pets are vaccinated, trained and well-behaved. Impromptu visits to the vet are much harder to arrange especially when you’re swamped with work.  A trip to the bathroom isn’t always enough to ease their discomfort.

Nothing is sacred in the presence of dogs. If dogs can “eat your homework” and chew on your shoes, what’s to say your documents are an exception? Make sure your documents and important papers are out of reach and secure.

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Sure, having them in the workplace with you might be a relief, but how sure are you that they enjoy it? As good as your dog’s presence makes you feel, they also don’t deserve to stay cooped up in the office alongside you. They’re bound to get tired of sitting still and going in circles for eight hours daily. Try following a doggie calendar so you all know whose turn it is to bring their canine.

The happiness brought about by a pet is forever.  Maybe by the time June 23 comes along, your pet will finally be able to come with you to work. Here’s to more days of leaving the office in high spirits.