As a business owner, one of the decisions you might have to make is whether to allow animals, particularly dogs, into the office environment. Some business owners are hesitant about this idea, while others fully embrace it.
There has been a wave of research about the benefits of having an office dog in the workplace. Along with that, we’ve seen a huge growth in the popularity of office dogs in our client’s offices. In fact, it may continue to become more and more popular, particularly after the pandemic. Maybe some people decided to get a dog whilst they were working from home? And then when they returned to the office, the dog came with them?
However, it’s come about, we’re definitely seeing a lot of fury friends in the workplace. The question is, is this a good thing or a bad thing?
In this blog, we will discuss the pros and cons of having dogs in the office and help you make an informed decision for your business.
Pros:
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Improved employee morale and productivity
Research shows that dogs in the workplace can help reduce stress levels and improve overall employee morale. When employees feel more relaxed and happier at work, they are more likely to be productive and engaged in their work.
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Increased socialisation among employees
Dogs in the workplace can help employees socialise and bond with each other. Taking a break to play with a dog can help employees get to know each other better and build stronger relationships.
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Positive impact on clients
As mentioned earlier, when clients or training delegates visit HR Your Business Matters office, they are advised that there are office dogs. This can create a positive and welcoming atmosphere, making the clients feel more comfortable and relaxed.
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Improved physical health
Having dogs in the workplace can encourage employees to take breaks and go for walks, which can have a positive impact on their physical health. Walking is a great form of exercise and can help employees stay more active throughout the day.
Cons:
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Allergies
Some employees or clients may have allergies to dogs, which can make it difficult for them to work in or visit the office. It is important to consider the health and well-being of all employees and clients when making this decision.
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Distractions
Dogs can be distracting, especially when they are playing or barking. This can be a problem for employees who need to focus on their work. It is important to set rules and boundaries for the dogs in the office to minimise distractions.
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Liability
Having dogs in the workplace can increase the risk of liability. For example, if a dog bites an employee or client, the business owner could be held liable. It is important to have appropriate insurance coverage and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of incidents.
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Training and care
It is important to ensure that the dogs in the office are well-behaved and trained. This requires time and effort, and some business owners may not have the resources to provide this type of care for their dogs. It is important to have a plan in place for the care and training of the dogs in the office.
Final thoughts
If you decide to allow dogs in the office, it is important to have clear guidelines in place for the care and behavior of the dogs, as well as a plan for addressing any potential issues that may arise. It is also important to consider the needs and well-being of all employees and clients when making this decision.
At HR Your Business Matters, we have found that our office dogs, including Kovu the Shitzu, Barney the Cavapoo, and Roxy the Border Terrier, have had a positive impact on our workplace environment. Our clients love saying hello, and our team has reported feeling happier and more relaxed at work. We encourage our team members to take breaks and go for walks with the dogs, which has helped improve their physical health.
Ultimately, the decision to allow dogs in the office is a personal one that depends on the needs and culture of your business. With careful consideration and planning, dogs in the workplace can be a positive addition to your team and workplace environment.
Would you like to discuss this topic further? If so reach out by email to admin@hr-yourbusinessmatters.co.uk or give us a call on 01733 739660.
