On a hectic work day, emails may pile up, customers may complain, and your workload may mount to a level that feels increasingly difficult. Managing that level of stress in the workplace is a dilemma businesses are searching to remedy. Google, Amazon, and Louisville Label, are among the growing number of businesses who have sought and found a successful resolution.
Allowing employees to bring their pets to work is a growing trend that reaps positive benefits for the employee and the employer. If you are wondering how having a furry friend at your fingertips can benefit you in the workplace, read on to discover three examples.
Stress Reliever
Most pet owners acknowledge that when they worry, their pets seem to have a calming effect about them that seems to melt away frantic deadlines and financial stress. Dogs and cats are considered great stress-relievers. In fact, a recent study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management in 2012 shows that stress levels fell among employees when their pet was by their side. For co-workers who left their pet at home or had no pet at all, stress levels escalated.
Longer Working Hours
Although most employees wouldn’t choose to work more hours than we have to, when a pet is brought into the office, employees are more prone to stick around and finish up last minute details that might get pushed aside when the needs of pets waiting at home are weighing on them. A survey by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association in 2008 showed that companies that allow pets in the workplace not only are more willing to work longer hours, but also hold a lower rate of absenteeism.
Team Building
Office politics and personalities definitely play a role in office camaraderie. But insert that cute little fluffy face into your workspace and suddenly there is a conversation starter, a warm presence that can strengthen work relationships and break down walls of discomfort. Researchers at Central Michigan University showed that dogs in the workplace may act as social catalysts and also encourage collaboration. Their presence alone can smooth rocky relationships and bring ease to tense situations.
Employees at Louisville Label are full supporters of pets in the workplace. Owner Anne Diemer and Operations Manager Patrick Ourada regularly bring their dogs to work, increasing “team” numbers by at least five on most days. Here’s a short introduction of our extended family members who we believe truly enhance our work experience and do wonders for easing a tense day.
Patrick’s Clan
Casey is a seven-year-old Goldendoodle who came to us from iDog Rescue and adds much love and happiness, despite a slightly stubborn streak.
Lambeau is also a Goldendoodle named for the famous Lambeau Field and in honor of his name, he wears a Packers collar. Lambeau is our calming force here at Louisville Label.
Vinny is an 18-month old Mini Aussie who recently graduated from Almost Home Boarding and Training Puppy Kindergarten and obedience school. In keeping with the NFL tradition, Vinny gets his name in honor of Vince Lombardi, famous NFL Packer coach.
Anne’s Goldendoodle Bunch
Baxter is eight-years-old and was a rescue from Golden Retriever Rescue (GRRAND) here in Louisville. He was found tied to a tree in the 90 degree heat because his family’s children were afraid of him. Although he can be quite lively, he is a very loving and good dog.
Abby is five and is another iDog Rescue who was found in a shelter in Arkansas on death row. Pilots and Paws flew her to Carbondale, Illinois to a foster home and Anne adopted her about a month later. Abby and Anne are training to be a therapy team for WAGS, an organization which provides companionship and therapy through animals.
If your company is still undecided about pets in the workplace, the results are in and show paws-atively that Rover adds to a robust workplace and can help employees recover from a ruff day. For more information on how pets improve our work environment here at Louisville Label, click here and we will be glad to share our experience.
