Pawsitive Productivity: Embracing Pets in the Workplace on Take Your Pet to Work Day
As National Take Your Dog to Work Day approaches on June 23, a recent study has revealed that 58% of young pet parents are in favor of bringing their beloved pets to the office. With pet ownership reaching record levels, nearly 60% of young pet owners believe that allowing pets in the workplace can provide emotional benefits, according to PetSure, a leading pet health company and insurance underwriter.
In a survey, pet owners were asked to identify public places where well-trained pets should be allowed to benefit people emotionally. Retirement villages topped the list at 77%, followed by mental health clinics (67%), hospitals (55%), the workplace (50%), and childcare centers (45%).
Interestingly, the study showed that more women (56%) than men (43%) believe that trained pets should be allowed in the office. Furthermore, younger respondents aged 18–25 were more likely (58%) to support pets in the workplace compared to only 47% of those aged 46–55.
This research comes ahead of National Take Your Pet to Work Week, which takes place from June 19 to June 23. This initiative, organized by Pet Sitters International, has been gaining momentum year after year, emphasizing the growing interest in integrating pets into the work environment.
PetSure, in its Pet Health Monitor report for 2023, highlighted the emotional benefits of the human-animal bond, including enhanced socialization opportunities and improved mood. With a commitment to being a pet lover’s workplace of choice, PetSure offers several perks to their staff:
1. Pet-friendly workplace: Pets are welcome every day of the week, except for Tuesdays, which are reserved for cats. The team at PetSure enjoys the convenience of free on-site parking on the days they bring their pets.
2. Premium waived and discounted pet insurance policy: PetSure provides its staff with a special pet insurance policy through petinsurance.com.au, ensuring that their furry friends receive the care they need to stay happy and healthy.
3. On-site vet clinic: PetSure offers free health checks and vaccination programs through their Sydney-based on-site vet clinic called ‘Petbase’. This ensures that the pets brought to work are well taken care of and have access to immediate veterinary attention if needed.
4. Pet-specific leave policies: PetSure understands that there are times when pet parents need to care for their pets. They offer various leave options, including pet carer’s leave, pawternity leave for those welcoming a new dog or cat into their household, and pet compassionate leave for situations when employees need to be present for their pets during illness or other emergencies.
To maintain a safe and healthy environment, PetSure has implemented a booking system for staff to schedule their pet’s office days. It is mandatory for pets to be vaccinated and free from parasites. Pets showing signs of illness or having infectious conditions are not allowed in the office.
If you’re thinking of allowing pets at work (we think you should!) here’s an example Pets at Work Policy you can use as a template:
Pet Policy: Bringing Your Pets to Work
At [Company Name], we understand the positive impact that pets can have on employee well-being and work-life balance. To create a pet-friendly workplace while ensuring the comfort and safety of all employees, we have established the following policy for bringing pets to work:
1. Pet Eligibility:
a. Only well-behaved and properly trained pets are allowed in the workplace.
b. Pets must be up to date on vaccinations and provide proof of vaccination.
c. Pets should be clean, groomed, and free of fleas or ticks.2. Owner Responsibility:
a. Pet owners are fully responsible for the behavior and actions of their pets.
b. Pets must be supervised and kept under control at all times.
c. Owners must promptly clean up after their pets and properly dispose of waste.3. Health and Safety:
a. Pets with contagious illnesses or infectious conditions are not permitted in the workplace.
b. Any allergies or sensitivities to pets should be communicated to HR or management in advance.
c. Owners must ensure that their pets do not pose a risk to the health or safety of other employees.4. Workplace Etiquette:
a. Excessive noise, such as barking or meowing, should be minimized to avoid disruption.
b. Pets should not disturb or interfere with other employees’ work or workspace.
c. Pets should be kept on a leash or in a secure carrier when moving through common areas.5. Liability and Damage:
a. Owners are liable for any damage caused by their pets to company property or other employees’ belongings.
b. Owners should take necessary precautions to prevent chewing, scratching, or other destructive behavior.6. Emergency Situations:
a. In case of an emergency or illness, owners should have a plan in place for their pets’ care and be prepared to take them home if necessary.
b. Owners should provide emergency contact information for their pets.Please note that this pet policy may be subject to review and amendment based on the needs and feedback of our employees. Violation of this policy may result in the revocation of pet privileges in the workplace.
By adhering to this policy, we can maintain a pet-friendly environment that promotes a positive work atmosphere and respects the well-being of all employees.
[Company Name] Management Team
National Take Your Dog to Work Day and highlights the increasing demand for pet-friendly workplaces. With emotional benefits and improved well-being for both employees and their furry companions, allowing pets in the office can foster a positive and enjoyable work environment. Why don’t you join in!
