Pets for Workplace Wellbeing
Insight from Safer Sphere’s Managing Director on pets for workplace wellbeing: Benefits, downsides, and advice for success.
What inspired you to start bringing your dogs to the office?
Since getting my two Cockapoos, Fleur and Harvey, they’ve had a big impact on my personal well-being. I’m someone who values mental health and well-being in the workplace, so I wanted to bring them in a create a positive atmosphere to benefit both employees and the business.
What are the benefits?
Bringing pets to work can have many benefits. I know that interacting with pets is good for reducing stress, and anxiety, and just generally improving your mental health. They also create good energy in the office by cheering everyone up. Generally, having pets in the office can help with to increased employee engagement, satisfaction, and productivity. One of the main things is that they remind you to take breaks to go outside for fresh air and have a good lunch!
Any downsides?
While bringing the dogs to work is a great way to boost morale, it also means I have to get up earlier to walk them and get ready. Plus, they don’t care that it’s still dark outside!
Whilst they brighten up my day, they’re also messy. Be prepared to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty cleaning up after them.
Advice for anyone who wants to do it.
Bringing pets to the workplace can be a wonderful experience for everyone involved. It’s important to plan for distractions and be flexible for those who may not be comfortable around pets, but if everyone feels comfortable and supported, it can be great.
If you have a larger workplace and want your employees to bring pets in then perhaps create clear guidelines that can be established for behaviour and care, grooming, designated pet-free zones, and cleaning