The overall health benefits of having dogs in the office
There are many views on having a dog in the office, but are you aware of the health benefits your office dog can bring? World Mental Health Day occurred this month so it’s the perfect time to investigate the positive impacts dogs in the workplace can have on your staff.
Reduces stress
We have all been privy to focusing too much time on a project/problem, where your productivity can diminish and cause unnecessary stress. Pets can be that reminder to take a step back and pause from whatever it is. They act as a temporary distraction allowing a mental break which can reduce stress and being overworked. This ultimately leaves your staff happier in the long run and can increase productivity. A study from The International Journal of Workplace Health Management shows that dogs in the workplace can reduce stress throughout the day.
Improves Physical Health
Far too often we can become too comfortable sitting in the warmth of the office, exercising only on our walk back and forth to the coffee machine. Having a dog in the office can encourage staff to go for a walk, get some fresh air and be more active. It’s no news that walking is healthy and people who exercise regularly tend to be calmer, as well as more alert and happy than those who stay inactive.
Reduces costs
Having a dog-friendly office can minimise your employee’s expenditure. If employees can bring their dog to work, they will save money by not having to pay for a dog minder or dog walker. There is a financial perk for your staff while costing you nothing.
Increases Job Satisfaction
Stress in the workplace is inevitable. However, studies show that dogs in the workplace not only reduce stress, but also create an overall more relaxed and comfortable environment, leading to long term job satisfaction amongst staff.
I mean who wouldn’t want their very own CMB (Chief Mood Booster) greeting them everyday.
Attracts talent
Finally, from a recruitment point of view, having a dog-friendly office can be a great way to attract industry talent. Enticing someone to come in and view the office with the added bonus of meeting the office dog. One hell of an incentive!
Creates a Talking Point
Even beyond the walls of the office, dogs can be useful in the Business sphere. Puppy breaks at big events are an increasingly popular trend. Take Visit Norfolk’s Puppy Booth at MPI’s 2019 World Education Congress (WEC) or the Paws for a Break initiative run at Imex. Playing with the dogs allows people to take a break and disconnect from a busy meeting schedule and connect on a different level entirely.
In my opinion, you would have to be ‘barking’ mad not to allow your staff to bring their dog into work.
Written by: Sinead Cleary, Brand and Marketing Manager for Albert Bow
