We’ve all heard the expression, “working like a dog.”  But have you ever been invited to “work with your dog?”

This Friday, June 21st, marks the 15th annual Pet Sitters’ International ‘Take Your Dog To Work Day’®, and pets in the workplace is a growing trend, as nearly 1 out of every 5 employers have pet-friendly policies, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA). While some may think dogs in the office would be a distraction, APPMA’s research shows ongoing, positive benefits of a pet presence within the office, notably a more creative environment, lessened absenteeism and improved relationships between managers and employees.

Some companies encourage all of their employees to bring their pets to work on this day. When it comes to the dogged pursuit of excellence, pets and work go hand in paw. Need some proof?

Consider the following statistics:

• Paws for Productivity: For many pet parents, home is where our pets are – so it makes sense that they’d enjoy spending more time in a pet-friendly office. Indeed, when the APPMA conducted a survey of pet-friendly businesses, 73% said that pets helped to create a more productive working environment.
• Stress Less:  Taking a break to pet a favorite furry friend is not only refreshing and laughter-inducing, but it also improves their health. According to a 2012 Virginia Commonwealth University study, employees who bring their dogs to work produced lower levels of the stress-causing hormone cortisol – but even those who simply work alongside pets can benefit.
• Sniff Out Top Talent: In an age when companies are striving to stay ahead of the benefits curve, Pet Insurance companies has seen first-hand how having a pet-friendly policies, including offering pet insurance as a voluntary employee benefit, can help attract talented prospects. In fact, in recent poll from The Bark magazine, many people selected a dog-friendly office over salary as the key component in where they prefer to work.

Pledge to Paw-ticipate: Pets can transform an office from monotonous to merry – but things can get messy.  Team members who bring furry friends to work must sign a “Pets at Work Pledge,” taking responsibility for their pet’s care at work, and certifying that their pet is

• housebroken,
• well-behaved and
• healthy.

Source: Fay Observer Blog

Would you bring your pet to work if this day was possible in South Africa?