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As we wind down the year and move full steam ahead into 2023, employers now understand how the nature of work has radically changed in the past three years, with more and more employees working remotely. However, many organizations looking to enhance workplace harmony and collaboration are taking creative steps to draw staff back to the office.

One approach is to entice employees who have pets to bring their furry friends to the office. Bringing pets to work is not a new idea, as some workplaces have employed this policy over the years, with varying degrees of success. But once again, we see how the pandemic changed the nature of work. Those who began working from home full-time got used to having their pets around on a regular basis, and vice versa. Their reluctance to leave their cuddly companions alone for the long hours of a full workday isn’t lost on many forward-thinking company leaders who have been initiating pet-friendly policies.

Surveys have shown that employees with pets would look more favorably at returning to the office if they could bring their furry friends. Many are willing to change jobs to find a more pet-friendly workplace. A survey performed for Vetster, a veterinary telehealth platform, found that 60% of employed pet owners have done so.

In response, many employers are changing their policies to become more pet-friendly. A survey by Barkbus, a luxury mobile dog grooming service based in California, found that 71% of employees surveyed said their employer had recently updated its pet policies. Some organizations are now offering pet health insurance and outdoor spaces and indoor gated areas for pets.

The positive impacts of a pet-friendly office may include greater job satisfaction and less stress among employees, increased collaboration and productivity, and reduced turnover, various surveys have found.

Of course, it is important to ensure the cleanliness of your office space and that pets do not become disruptive. Employers Council offers a sample handbook document on pets in the workplace that includes considerations before implementing a policy. If you have any questions, please email the Employers Council Member Experience Team.