Adding office pets boosts morale, creativity

There are lots of things that probably help you feel better at work.

Sure, sometimes they are significant—such as a promotion, a raise, or even a vacation (a real one that doesn’t involve endlessly checking email).

But sometimes the small things make a difference, too, such as office occasions (coffee Monday anyone?) or birthday celebrations.

But there’s a workplace change that’s getting more and more acceptance for the positive effects it has all around: office pets.

Part of the reason people want to bring their pets to work is that, well, we have more pets—over 84 million households.

Benefits of office pets

And corporate America is starting to listen and consider the best ways to incorporate family members into the work schedule.

Bringing your dog to work improves work-life balance, develops social skills, and boosts creativity.

Office pets also provide benefits for other employees because they help reduce stress and increases both productivity and positivity.

So what should you consider before adopting an office pets policy?

First, survey employees to make sure the majority are comfortable with that idea.

Decide which pets — dogs, cats, fish or birds — are welcome at the office.

Set specific rules such as pets must be well-behaved, spayed or neutered and up-to-date on vaccinations.

Dog owners who consider bringing their pets to work, need to be honest with themselves. Make sure your dog gets along with other pets and people. And be sure your dog always responds to commands such as sit, stay, and come.

Maintain areas that are designated off-limits to pets for employees who are timid about dogs or are allergic to them.

This graphic from Quill.com provides more details on creating a successful pet policy.