22 Jun The dog days are over
Why an office pooch may be the solution to workplace stress
There’s nothing better than coming home and being smothered by the love from your dog. They are always happy to see you and, if they haven’t ruined your new shoes, you’re usually happy to see them too. Imagine if you didn’t have to wait to get home to receive all that unconditional love from your furry friend. If there were more pet-friendly workplaces, we wouldn’t have to imagine.
Pet-friendly offices are becoming a growing trend and we can see why. Allowing pets into the workplace can boost morale, increase productivity and reduce stress. In addition, employees tend to stay at work a little longer as they are not rushing home to their ‘lonely’ fur child.
Studies show having a dog in the workplace increases socialisation. Like proud parents, dog owners love to talk about and share pictures of their pooch. The producer at Pie Town Producing in LA says “having animals around has shown to facilitate employees interacting with one another where they wouldn’t normally venture outside their comfort zones.” A study in 2010 by Central Michigan University revealed dogs in the workplace can result in greater collaboration and trust between co-workers.
You can forget about those gloomy grumpy days in the office, pooches are the perfect company to have around as they have the ability to lift moods and improve happiness. According to studies by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention owning a pet can decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as well as lower stress and anxiety. If you are having a bad day in the office, turn to your furry friend and they will soon make you a happier and healthier employee.
We all hear about how important taking a break is. Having a wagging tail walk past can be a great distraction, whether it is a rub on the belly or a little walk outside for a toilet break. These breaks can increase productivity and creativity: A recent study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology found something as simple as going for a walk can boost creative thinking by as much as 60%.
From working in a dog-friendly workspace ourselves, we have seen these benefits ring true. Our Chief Creative, Mel, has introduced us to Blake, our Marsden Collective little bundle of doggy joy. We all anticipate for the days our furry best friend comes in.
He brings a smile to everyone’s dial and most importantly gives the best hugs. You can tell Blake loves being in here too. Work just wouldn’t be the same going back to an office that doesn’t allow our adorable 4 legged mates.
Whilst we love pooches, our 4-legged friends might not be for everybody. To maintain a respectful workplace for all employees, there are management guidelines that can be put in place (The RSPCA has some great tips). Ensuring dogs are well trained and putting together a dog roster are examples that can help everyone share the benefits of the dog-friendly workplace.
Having a little furry friend in the office has many perks for employees and the employers. Bringing your furry best friend into the workplace is becoming a growing trend and you can see why. Start packing your dog’s lunch box, there are benefits for everyone!
Blog contribution by Tarryn Hogan, Design superstar.
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