BUSINESSES URGED TO ALLOW PETS IN THE OFFICE FOR A HAPPIER WORKPLACE
Aussie businesses have been urged to adopt a pet-friendly policy to create happier and more productive workplaces.
National animal welfare charity Companion Animal Network Australia has launched a Pets in Business program to help employers establish pet-friendly policies that meet the needs of the business, non-pet owners, and pet-owning staff.
Research shows that 85%* of Australian dog owners would go into the office more if they could take their pets.
Plus, 63%* of employees in pet-friendly workplaces are “very satisfied” with their work environment (and that is nearly twice as many as those in workplaces where pets are not allowed).
“Now more than ever, pets are an integral part of our lives,” Trish Ennis, CEO of Australia CAN, said.
“With many companies continuing to have employees split their working week between home and the office, it’s no surprise people want to bring their pets to the workplace too.
“With work being a leading source of stress worldwide, employee satisfaction and morale are top-of-mind for most HR leaders, and pet-inclusive policies can help."
However, many workplaces are not prepared to have animals on site, with 64% of workplaces not having policies in place to support pets joining them, according to a global study.
“Creating a pet-friendly workplace involves carefully balancing the interests and rights of all employees, ensuring the welfare of the animals and managing the associated liability risks,” Ms Ennis said.
“Plus, not every workplace is suitable for pets; for instance, a warehouse or other area that operates high-risk machinery. Some animals are also prohibited, such as snakes, spiders and uncaged bunnies that can chew up cords!
"All pets need to be trained and not cause disruptions, such as reactive dogs that tend to bark at other people or animals.”
CANA’s Pets in Business program provides free resources to support the workplace, such as Pet Resumes, Pet-Friendly Workplace and Pet-Free Zone Posters, Rules for Pets and Humans, and an Office Pet Roster.
For a donation, CANA can also set up employers with a branded Pets In Business kit that includes rules and regulations that meet the needs of everyone in the workplace. All donations go towards supporting the work of CANA member agencies.
“As some companies struggle to persuade employees to spend more time working on-site, implementing a pet-friendly policy might be the perfect solution for creating happier and more productive workplaces,” Ms Ennis said.
