For some time now, we have been highlighting companies around the world that are pioneers in integrating pets into the workplace. The United States leads the list of countries with the longest tradition in this area and is doing the most to reconcile employees' lives with those of their pets, as we already told you here. Germany is also making significant progress, and cutting-edge companies such as Xing include their employees' dogs in everyday office life. Of course, things are changing in our country too, and we have some great examples of companies and offices that not only allow ARISTODOGS in the workplace, but are proud to have them there. Rastreator, the Rosebud agency, and Airbnb Spain are some of them.
We often talk about all these companies, with their flexible and inclusive workplace policies. But from the perspective of small business owners, it may seem unattainable. Something only suitable for large companies, with large facilities and resources... But in reality, that is only partly true. Integrating dogs is, fundamentally, a matter of willingness and philosophy. Wanting to do it is the first step. Then, of course, you need to think about all the necessary logistics and establish a list of “rules” and best practices so that the situation remains under control, pleasant for all employees, and safe for the pets.
That said, let's look at a series of best practices to keep in mind when turning a company... into a pet-friendly company.
1. Consult your employees.
It may seem obvious, but it is necessary, especially when the situation changes “from one day to the next.” It is important to know their opinions (through a vote or survey) and, especially, to find out more about the views of those who object. Fears? Allergies? This aspect is crucial to avoid bad feeling and the classic phenomenon of “resistance to change.”
Once you know the team's opinion and, above all, if there is no unanimous agreement, the decision is up to you. But whatever you decide, do it respectfully and not in an authoritarian way, but in a conciliatory manner.
2. Create a code of conduct.
Turning your company into a place where pets are welcome is simple. As we said, you only have to want it. But it is very important to have rules that must be followed so that the workplace atmosphere is not disrupted 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 such as these:
- Every dog must be properly dewormed, vaccinated, and clean. Your dog interacts with others, so it is important to take extra hygiene measures.
- Each owner is responsible for their pet's hygiene and for making sure it relieves itself where appropriate. If anything gets dirty, each owner must take responsibility and clean it up.
- If there is an incident between dogs, each owner must accept responsibility and understand that, until what happened is clarified, the dogs must stay away from the office.
- Each owner must ensure that their dog does not bark loudly, whine, or behave inappropriately toward other pets.
- Owners must also bring their own food and do everything possible to prevent one pet from eating another's food.
3. Establish the areas where pets can be... and cannot be.
This point is quite personal. That is why it deserves careful consideration. Are dogs allowed in the kitchen? In the bathrooms? In meeting rooms? And during the meetings themselves? These are matters that depend on you and your team, but they undoubtedly need to be considered to avoid misunderstandings.
4. Make sure the office is safe for dogs.
Are there automatic doors that dogs could escape through? Plants that could be poisonous if a dog ingests them? Or machinery? Safety is very important when a company begins its journey toward becoming pet friendly. You could even consider the possibility - as some companies do - of offering medical insurance for pets.
5. Announce it on your website and social media.
Times are changing, and employees no longer think only about salary when accepting or rejecting a job, but also about additional benefits and employment policies (flexible hours, remote work, etc.). That is why allowing pets at your company could be a great incentive for many potential employees. That makes your company a more attractive place to work and is worth promoting.
It may seem complex, but it is possible with proper organization. Above all, it is extremely enriching and beneficial for employees, their well-being, and the positive atmosphere in the workplace.
We hope all these ideas are useful to you. If you decide to make your company pet friendly, let us know!