Office Dogs, Other Pets Gain Popularity

Pet-friendly workplaces are on the rise, and a new survey shows that more U.S. companies are allowing staff members to bring their companion animals to the office.

Friday is Pet Sitters International’s ninth annual Take Your Dog to Work Day, and many companies already welcome office animals, according to a survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association.

In a national poll of working Americans 18 years of age and older, 17 percent reported that their company permits pets at work. However, 23 percent said they believe that pets should be allowed in the workplace.

Of those surveyed, most believe having pets at work helps reduce stress and makes people happier. Here are some additional findings:

• 75 million Americans believe pets in the workplace make people happier.
• 70 million Americans believe office pets reduce stress.
• 47 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace leads to a more creative environment.
• 37 million believe having pets in the workplace decreases absenteeism.
• 41 million believe having pets in the workplace helps co-workers get along better.
• 46 million believe having pets in the workplace creates a more productive work environment.

The most common pet taken to work is a dog (76 percent), while 24 percent take a small animal, and 15 percent take a cat.

“This survey indicates that more people are realizing the importance of pets in the workplace,” said Bob Vetere, APPMA president. “Pets are becoming more of a welcome addition and proving to be beneficial to employee well-being and office culture.”