For some time now, we have been showcasing companies around the world that are pioneering the integration of pets into the workplace. The United States leads the list of countries with the longest tradition in this regard and that are doing the most to reconcile the lives of their employees with those of their pets, as we already told you here. In Germany, many advances are also being made, and leading companies like Xing include their employees' dogs in the daily office routine. Of course, things are also changing in our country, and we have good examples of companies and offices that not only allow ARISTOPERROS in their workplace but are proud to have them. Rastreator, the Rosebud agency, and Airbnb Spain are some of them.
We talk a lot about all those companies with a flexible and inclusive labor policy. But for small business owners, it might seem unattainable, only suitable for large companies with large facilities and resources. However, that's only partially true. Integrating dogs is, fundamentally, a matter of will and philosophy. Wanting to do it is the first step. Then, of course, you have to think about all the necessary logistics, articulate a list of "rules" and best practices to ensure the situation is controlled, pleasant for all employees, and safe for pets.
Having said that, let's look at a series of best practices that should be considered when turning a company... into a pet-friendly company.
1. Consult employees.
It may seem obvious, but it is necessary, especially when the situation changes "overnight." It is important to know their opinion (through a vote or survey) and, especially, to delve into the opinions of those who oppose it. Fears? Allergies? This aspect is decisive to avoid bad vibes and the classic phenomenon of "resistance to change."
Once the team's opinion is known, and especially if there is no unanimity on the matter, the decision is up to you. But whatever you decide, do it with respect and not in an imposing way, but conciliatory.
2. Create a code of conduct.
It's simple for your company to become a place where pets are welcome. As we said, you just have to want it. But it is very important that there are rules to be followed so that the work environment is not disturbed and there are no misunderstandings.
Fundamentally, this means that each employee is responsible for their own pet at all times—unless a temporary caregiver is assigned, for example, during meetings, inside or outside the office.
This code of conduct can include points like these:
- Each dog must be properly dewormed, vaccinated, and clean. Your dog interacts with others, and it is important to take extreme hygiene measures.
- Each owner is responsible for their pet's hygiene, ensuring it relieves itself where appropriate. If anything gets dirty, each owner must take responsibility and clean it up.
- In the event of an incident between dogs, each owner must assume responsibility and accept that, until the situation is clarified, the dogs must be absent from the office.
- Each owner must ensure that their dog does not bark loudly, cry, or behave inappropriately with other pets.
- They must also bring their own food and avoid at all costs that one pet eats another's food.
3. Establish the areas where pets are allowed... and where they are not.
This point is quite personal. So you have to give it a good thought. Is it acceptable for dogs to enter the kitchen? The bathrooms? The meeting rooms? And during the meetings themselves? These are aspects that depend on you and the team, but they certainly need reflection to avoid misunderstandings.
4. Make sure the office is safe for dogs.
Are there automatic doors through which dogs can escape? Are there plants that can be poisonous if a dog ingests them? Or machinery? Safety is very important when a company embarks on the pet-friendly journey. And even considering the possibility—as is the case with some companies—of offering medical insurance for pets.
5. Communicate it on your website and social media.
Times are changing, and employees no longer only think about salary when accepting or rejecting a job, but also about the additional benefits and employment policy (flexible hours, teleworking, etc.). Therefore, it is very possible that for many of your potential employees, allowing pets in your company is a great incentive. This makes your company a more attractive place to work, and it's worth promoting.
It may seem complex, but with proper organization, it is possible. And above all: extremely enriching and beneficial for employees, their well-being, and the good atmosphere of the workplace.
We hope all these ideas are useful to you. If you decide to make your company pet-friendly, let us know!