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Inspiration

Bringing pets to the workplace:

Pros and cons

llowing pets, particularly dogs, in the work- Employers must consider legal issues, as well, such as
place is one perk employers are considering to liability for pet-related incidents and compliance with
increase workers' happiness when returning to local health and safety regulations.
A the office after a period of working from home.
This can work well in businesses such as tech startups, Benefits versus challenges
small ISOs, creative agencies and small retail shops, where Allowing pets at work can significantly reduce stress,
the atmosphere is often casual and flexible. boost morale and increase job satisfaction. It can also
encourage breaks, leading to better mental health and
However, it may not be suitable for such businesses as law productivity. Moreover, pets can serve as icebreakers,
firms, acquiring banks, payment processors, healthcare facilitating communication among employees.
facilities, or manufacturing plants, where safety, hygiene,
and structure are paramount. However, pets in the workplace can also introduce
distractions, noise and potential conflicts among
In small businesses, bringing pets to work can foster a employees. Allergies, hygiene issues and liability concerns
close-knit, relaxed atmosphere, enhancing team bonding (for example, bites or accidents) are potential drawbacks
and reducing stress. Large businesses may face more that need to be carefully managed.
challenges, such as coordination between departments
and addressing the needs of employees who may have Ultimately, employers should weigh the benefits
allergies or phobias. Nonetheless, large companies like of improved morale and reduced stress against the
Google have successfully integrated pet-friendly policies. potential challenges. A well-thought-out policy, clear

Tips for success communication and consideration of all employees’ needs
are key to making a pet-friendly workplace successful.
To make it work, employers should establish a clear pet
policy outlining do's and don'ts. This should include rules
on pet behavior, vaccination requirements and designated
areas for pets. Pets must be well-behaved, healthy and
house-trained. And a pet-free zone for employees who
prefer not to interact with animals is a must.

It’s also crucial to have a trial period to assess the impact Kate Gillespie, President and CEO
on the workplace and make adjustments as needed.

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