Pet-Friendly offices make everyone happier

Take Your Dog To Work Day is June 24, and although the holiday might seem silly, four-legged friends roaming around the workplace could be better for your company than you might think.

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.

Pets can also trigger workplace interactions that would not normally take place.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites dozens of animal experts who report that pets can decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels as well as increase opportunities for exercise and socialization.

While many agree that pet-friendly workplaces improve the lives of existing employees, it also seems to be a huge draw for potential hires. Nearly 25-percent of the employees who participated in the study admitted to asking about pet-friendly workplace policies during the interview process. Pet-friendly policies may also be conducive to employee retention as 53-percent of employees in non-pet-friendly workplaces say they would be more likely to remain with their company if they had the option to bring their pet to work with them.

Allowing pets in the office also removes any guilt employees may feel about having to leave their animal at home when they come to work.

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.