Banjo & Millie: Work Like.. err, I mean... With a Dog

Did you know that Take Your Dog to Work Day is coming up this Friday, June 24th? That’s right, friends. There’s a day out there dedicated to bringing your pet along as you work like a dog. I absolutely love this idea, started by Pet Sitters International in 1999, that aims to celebrate not only the unfaltering companionship of our dogs, but also to encourage adoption of homeless animals.

As many of you know, Banjo already goes to work every day as a therapy dog, and we are highly aware of just how important his presence is in helping the people he interacts with. But taking your dog to work is beneficial on so many levels. It’s good for you, the dog, your coworkers, and your clients/customers.

I know WE all know just how valuable our pets are in keeping us healthy and productive, but just in case your boss doesn’t, here is some background information on pets in the workplace and just a few interesting facts about just how much potential having dogs present has on the success of your business:

Some ~~Barkground~~ Background

A survey by the American Pet Products Association Manufacturers found that 20% of companies now have pet-friendly policies. (Source)
A recent Associated Press poll found that in the past year, 17 percent of pet owners have had to consider cutting back on day care for their animals and 27 percent have seriously considered giving up their pet. (Source)
In 2005, about 10,000 companies participated in Take Your Dog to Work Day, way up from the 300 who participated the first time in 1999, according to Pet Sitters International, indicating that bringing your dog to work is more than just a fad. (Source)

Benefits to Business

In a tough economy with disappearing benefits, pet-friendly policies are a free perk employers can offer to attract and retain employees. (Source)
Employers who allow pets in the workplace have employees who are willing to work longer hours, and research shows that allowing employees to bring their dogs to work decreases absenteeism. (Source)
Research shows that dogs break down barriers and help to build relationships between employees.
A recent study conducted by Central Michigan University found that when dogs were present in a group, employees were more likely to trust each other and collaborate more effectively in the office. (Source)
Studies suggest that allowing dogs in the workplace allow for a more productive work environment. (Source)
Pet-friendly policies make pet-loving employees feel valued (because if they care about your pet, they care about you).
Dogs in the workplace serve as good potential crime deterrents.
Employers who have pet-friendly policies often see increased motivation and creativity from their employees.
Pet-friendly policies are good PR opportunities.

Benefits to You

Owners are less stressed about their dog being left home alone all day or don’t have to spend extra money on a dog walker or doggie day care.
75 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace makes people happier. (Source)
41 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace helps co-workers get along better. (Source)
Allowing pets in the workplace helps employees to maintain a work-life balance and flexibility. (Source)
Having your pet by your side helps to lower stress and anxiety. (Source)
Allowing pets at work strengthens the bond between people and their pets. (Source)
Dogs provide an element of humor and perspective throughout the long workday (Source)

Benefits to Fido

Dogs aren’t left home alone all day (which leads to a happier, less destructive dog).
Allowing pets at work strengthens the bond between people and their pets. (Source)
Bringing your dog to work will not only make your dog happy, but it could also increase dog adoptions nationwide. Research has shown that one of the main reasons people decide not to adopt pets is because they are too often away at work. (Source)
Bringing your dog to work introduces them to a new environment, people and experiences, helping make for a more well-adjusted, social canine. (Source)

Of course, there are some downsides and obstacles to having pets in the workplace, but I am of course biased and believe that benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. (Check out some of the articles listed below to read about some of those drawbacks.) I in no way believe that it’s right for all people, all dogs, or all companies, but definitely believe that given the right circumstances, pets in the workplace are a win-win for everyone. If you are an employer who is considering implementing a “pets at work” policy, or if you’re like me and just wish you could convince your employer of the benefits, check out the Humane Society’s guidebook to creating pet-friendly workplaces, Dogs at Work: A Practical Guide to Creating Dog-Friendly Workplaces.