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Benefits of Dogs in the Workplace
Not all companies are created equal when it comes to the acceptance of dogs
in the workplace. Some readily welcome your best friend while others have not yet
realized the benefits of allowing dogs. The majority of companies that allow dogs
are small start-up companies who realize the need for a flexible work environment
or large high tech firms that allow dogs in order to capture the interest of a prospective
employee or to retain their current employees.
Benefits of Dogs in the Workplace
Facts from the American Humane Association
- Staff morale and worker productivity increased by bringing pets to work
- Increased camaraderie among employees
- Happier employees result in enhanced job performance
- Increase in sales reported by store owners who take their dogs to work
- Dogs can serve as a crime deterrent
"There's something about pets that really brings people together"
Carol Moulton, Director, American Humane Society
Facts from the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association
This Connecticut-based national trade group surveyed 50 small and large companies
across the U.S. that allow pets in the workplace. They surveyed law firms, Internet
sales companies and retail shops and the results showed that those with pets had
lower absenteeism rates and employees who were more willing to work overtime.
Additional comments from pet-friendly employers
"One of the many things that makes Ninth House Network unique is the presence
of all these cute, four-legged, furry critters. Having dogs around certainly decreases
the stress level. Just make sure you don't leave your lunch on your desk unattended."
Ninth House Network,
San Francisco, CA
"Employees can bring their dogs to work everyday. Almost everyone enjoys having
dogs around during the day and it helps to break up the stress at times. Autodesk
has been allowing dogs to come to work for approximately the past ten years."
Autodesk, San Rafael, CA
"Being able to bring my dogs to work is the only reason I don't mind working
crazy hours and overtime - if they are in the office with me, I'm not in a hurry
to go home and take them on a walk."
Dog owner at the American Hiking Society,
Silver Spring, MD
"The company has been dog friendly since the company's inception. We are actually
in our second generation of dogs here at Wildfire."
Dog owner at Wildfire Communications, Lexington,
MA
"This firm has been dog-friendly since 1985 and boasts a "cleanliness"
rating of Superior (the highest) from both the FDA and the Retail Bakers of America."
Century Box, Methuen, MA
"The owner, Bob Page, has been bringing his two dachshunds to work everyday
for years and encourages his 560 employees to do the same."
Replacements Ltd., Greensboro,
NC
"I allow my employees to bring their pets to work. I can't leave home without
my two miniature dachshunds, and I wouldn't expect my co-workers to leave their beloved
pets at home either. Pet-friendly will always be our policy. We and our pets are
healthier and happier for it!"
Honeybee Gardens, Morgantown, PA
"We encourage employees to bring in their pooches - and more than half the staff
of 40 does. There are rubber squeak toys, doggie beds and water bowls in the cubicles.
Some office chairs have leashes attached. But the dogs (of all sizes) roam free in
the office or out back in their 'exercise area'."
Talking Dog Media, Bellevue, WA
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