Research proves the mental health benefits of pet-friendly office spaces

Keywords: mental health, productivity, stress, socialconnection, corporateculture

Date: 16 August 2024, WorkLife Digital

While bringing pets to the office has seen an increase in the past few years, research is now showing the clear benefits to employee mental wellbeing and company culture. Allowing dogs and other pets in the office is no longer just a perk for employees—it’s becoming a strategic move for businesses looking to enhance employee well-being, boost productivity, and foster a positive company culture.

A 2019 study from Lincoln University* highlights the specific benefits associated with bringing dogs to work, including increased work engagement, reduced turnover intention, and improved overall work-related quality of life.

Productivity and work engagement

A key finding from the Lincoln University study is the positive impact of dogs in the workplace on productivity and work engagement. Employees with pets in the office experience brief, yet meaningful, interactions that offer moments of relaxation and mindfulness. These interactions serve as a mental reset, allowing employees to recharge and maintain their focus throughout the day. This approach is particularly beneficial in combating mental fatigue, which can hinder productivity in high-stress environments. In fact, research in 2021** suggests that companies with pet-friendly policies see a marked increase in employee satisfaction, translating to higher levels of productivity and ultimately, profitability.

Stress reduction and mental wellbeing

One of the most significant benefits of having pets in the office is the reduction in stress levels among employees. The Lincoln University study found that the presence of dogs significantly lowers stress, with petting or interacting with dogs leading to a noticeable decrease in cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. This finding is supported by numerous studies, including research from the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI)***, which shows that interactions with pets can lower blood pressure and increase the release of mood-enhancing hormones such as oxytocin and serotonin. In a fast-paced work environment, these physiological changes contribute to better mental wellbeing and overall employee satisfaction.

Social connection and company culture

Beyond the individual benefits, pets in the office play a crucial role in enhancing social connections among employees. The study from Lincoln University points out that dogs act as social catalysts, encouraging more frequent and positive interactions between colleagues. This increased socialisation not only helps build stronger team dynamics but also contributes to a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture. For example, many participants in Amazon’s “Dogs at Work” program reported that their dogs were the reason they met new people in the office, leading to stronger workplace relationships.

Moreover, companies that embrace pet-friendly policies often see a higher level of employee loyalty and commitment. The HABRI study found that 90% of employees at pet-friendly companies reported a deep alignment with their employer’s mission and a willingness to endorse their workplace. This sense of loyalty is particularly pronounced among millennials, who rank having animals in the office as one of the top three workplace benefits.

Implementing pet-friendly policies: Key considerations

While the benefits of pet-friendly office spaces are clear, successful implementation requires careful planning and consideration of all employees’ needs. Not all pets are suited for an office environment, and not all employees are comfortable around animals. To ensure a smooth and effective integration of pets into the workplace, companies should establish clear guidelines and policies.

Specific criteria should be for the types of pets that can be brought to the office. It is important that pets are well-behaved, house-trained, and able to handle social environments without causing disruptions.

To support employees who may have allergies or fear of animals, companies should also establish specific areas for pets, including outdoor pet relief zones and possibly pet-free sections within the office.

Incorporating pets into the workplace can be a powerful strategy for enhancing productivity, reducing stress, and fostering social connections. By carefully planning and implementing pet-friendly policies, companies can create a work environment that not only supports employee well-being but also drives engagement, loyalty, and overall business success.

WorkLife Digital is a global mental-wellbeing consultancy driven by the mission to improve the sustainability of businesses. Our psychological wellbeing tool, Worklife Quotient (WL-Q), is modelled on cutting-edge scientific research and provides organisation-wide measurement and intelligence on the mental wellbeing levels and psychological resilience of staff. WL-Q also assesses the impact of organisational practices (i.e. people and culture, leadership styles, organisational purpose and values, social impact) that have a direct influence on staff wellbeing and provides strategic recommendations on addressing risks and promoting strengths.

For more information, get in touch at lisa@worklife.digital

REFERENCES

* https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6513973/

** https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7824880/

*** https://habri.org/research/mental-health/workplace-wellness/