Work To Drool: Reasons to Have Dogs At Work

Large scale employers, and even smaller companies, are always looking for ways to increase employee productivity (and thus their profits). Many companies have begun to offer new and surprising perks to their employees in hopes of achieving this goal. One of these perks is allowing employees to bring their dogs to work. While your first reaction may be to think that dogs will be a distraction in the work place, the results of several studies suggest the opposite. In this article you will learn the benefits of having dogs in the work place and receive some tips for convincing your boss to let you bring your own dog to work.

Benefits of Dogs in the Work Place

While some dogs are simply too high-strung or nervous to spend time in the office, calm and mild-mannered dogs can provide great benefits for employee production. Below you will find a list of some of the potential benefits having dogs in the work place may provide:

Stimulates creativity: A company that allows pets in the work place has already established itself as an outside-the-box thinker, which encourages employees to think outside the box as well. Having a dog in the office facilitates short breaks from work which give the brain a chance to rest and recharge. Even outside of the workplace, studies have shown that individuals who interact with pets have a lower risk for depression and higher serotonin levels.

Increased productivity: Most 9-to-5 jobs require employees to spend a large portion of their day sitting at a desk which can be both physically and mentally draining. Studies have shown that taking short breaks from work on a regular basis throughout the day can help to improve both accuracy and productivity in work. Dogs provide natural opportunities for these short breaks, helping to improve both productivity and morale in the work place.

Improved attendance: Several studies have shown that having a pet around reduces stress levels, which in turn, bolsters your immunity. This means that you will be sick less often. This is good news for your employer because it means fewer sick days for employees.

Bonding: Camaraderie and trust in the work place is essential for a thriving business, especially if your employees have to work in teams. Allowing dogs at work gives employees something to gather around and it facilitates friendly conversation. In general, having dogs around can encourage a more positive vibe which will reap positive effects across the board.

How to Convince Your Boss

If you want to convince your boss to allow employees to bring their dogs to work, there are right and wrong ways to go about it. For the best results, follow the tips below:

• Survey your coworkers to gauge interest in the idea – if a majority of employees are interested in the program your boss will be more likely to agree
• Present the benefits it will have for the company (refer to increased productivity and attendance)
• Volunteer yourself to run a committee responsible for establishing rules regulating the practice of bringing dogs into the workplace
• Make sure your office can accommodate dogs – look for areas that can be kept dog-free (restrooms, break rooms, etc.) and identify outdoor areas where dogs can be walked
• Suggest a trial run – your boss is more likely to give something a short-term chance to gauge its success then to just sign off on a new policy without trying it out

Tips for Bringing a Dog to Work

Convincing your boss to let you bring your dog to work is the hard part – but there is still work to do after it has passed. Before bringing your dog to work you need to ensure that he is properly housetrained and that he will be well-behaved. In the office, provide your dog with a place he will feel safe and comfortable. This may involve bringing in a pet bed or simply a pillow. Always supervise your dog in the office – do not let him wander around unattended. If you follow these simple tips, you should have no trouble with bringing your dog to the office and in no time at all you (and your employer) will start to see the benefits.