Should Employers Consider Pet-Friendly Policies?

Over the past few years, pets have become a bigger part of our working lives than ever before. More than 23 million American households adopted a pet during the pandemic, according to the ASPCA, and many employees grew accustomed to working side by side with their furry (and sometimes feathered or scaly) companions.

Now that in-office work has returned for many, the question of what to do about pets has become a serious workplace discussion. Some employees worry about leaving their pets at home, while others are actively seeking companies that welcome them into the office.

In fact, recent surveys reveal just how important this issue has become:

• 37% of dog owners would turn down a job if they couldn’t bring their dog to the office
• 29% would even take a pay cut to ensure their dog was welcome at work
• Nearly half (47%) of dog owners expect dog-friendly policies as standard

Big names like Amazon, Google, Airbnb, and Salesforce already allow pets in their workplaces. But should your organization follow their lead?

The Benefits of Pet-Friendly Workplaces

There is strong evidence that allowing pets in the office can benefit both employees and employers.

1. Stress reduction and wellbeing
Studies show that interacting with pets lowers stress levels and can even improve concentration and planning. Remarkably, the positive effects can last up to six weeks after contact.

2. Stronger team morale and culture
Employees report that pets boost morale (54%), reduce stress (65%), and improve the workplace atmosphere overall. Pets can also serve as icebreakers, helping colleagues connect more easily.

3. Talent attraction and retention
With nearly a third of employees saying they would sacrifice salary for pet-friendly perks, organizations that embrace these policies may find it easier to attract and retain talent. Advertising the policy upfront can be a simple yet powerful differentiator.

4. Practical support for pet owners
Dog walkers and pet care can be costly and hard to manage around work schedules. Allowing pets in the office alleviates this pressure and shows genuine consideration for employees’ lives outside of work.

The Challenges to Consider

Despite the clear upsides, pet-friendly policies aren’t without challenges. Employers need to weigh several practical and cultural factors before opening the doors to four-legged colleagues:

• Allergies and fears: Some employees may have sensitivities or anxieties around animals.
• Office suitability: Is there outdoor space for breaks? Are desk areas safe for pets? Are cleaning supplies available?
• Behavioral standards: Companies like Rover recommend clear rules, such as leash requirements, vaccination checks, and a behavioral “three-strike” policy to prevent safety risks.
• Numbers and balance: Limiting how many pets are in the office at one time or creating designated “dog days” can help maintain comfort for everyone.

Finding the Middle Ground

For organizations unsure about going fully pet-friendly, there are flexible alternatives. These include:

• Offering additional work-from-home days to support pet care
• Introducing designated pet days rather than an open-door policy
• Providing clear guidelines to balance the needs of both pet owners and non-pet owners

As Molly Johnson-Jones, CEO of Flexa, points out: “The benefits of dog-friendly offices are clear — they reduce stress, boost morale, and build bonds between colleagues. But thoughtful policies are essential to make it work for everyone.”

The Bottom Line

Pets can bring joy, reduce stress, and strengthen workplace culture. But as with any policy, inclusivity must come first. Employers considering pet-friendly benefits should carefully balance the enthusiasm of pet owners with the needs and comfort of all employees.

Handled well, pet-friendly policies can become more than just a perk — they can be a genuine driver of wellbeing, connection, and talent retention.

If you’d like to discuss how to design pet-friendly policies that work for your organization, get in touch with us at OrgShakers today.