Research Shows Pet-Friendly Offices Make Everyone Happier

Take Your Dog To Work Day is June 24, and although the holiday might seem silly, it turns out there are benefits to bringing little Fido to the workplace.

A survey conducted by the Banfield Pet Hospital found that pet-friendly workplaces are viewed as highly positive, help boost morale and contribute to talent retention. The employees surveyed also agreed that the presence of pets in the office fostered better relationships at work, improved work-life balance and reduced stress levels.

Allowing pets in the office could also give your company a competitive edge when it comes to hiring employees. While it can encourage people to get their own pets (and research shows owning pets makes us happier), and it also removes any guilt employees may feel about having to leave their animal at home when they come into work.

Of the 1,006 employees and human resource decision makers surveyed, only 22 percent of employees work in a pet-friendly environment, but those who do say that it greatly improves their workplace. It may not be the norm yet, but with all the research coming out about how it can improve your company, you might be seeing more puppies in your office soon.

Photo by Neil Kremer