In the post-pandemic era, the workplace is undergoing a transformation. The hybrid model of work is gaining traction, and with it, new opportunities for fostering a positive and engaging work environment are emerging. One such opportunity is the integration of our furry friends into the office space. Yes, you heard it right – dog-friendly workplaces are not just a fad, but a strategic move that can significantly enhance employee satisfaction, productivity, and retention.
The Dog-Friendly Office: A New Paradigm
In a recent interview with Sarah Dunsmore, People & Organization Director at Mars Petcare North America, we delved into the concept of dog-friendly offices. Mars Petcare has been at the forefront of promoting dog inclusivity in the workplace. In a recent study by Cesar, a part of the Mars family of brands, revealed that a staggering 87% of dog-friendly employers noticed a positive impact on their employees’ likelihood to return to the office.
The rationale behind this trend is simple yet profound. After spending months working side-by-side with their pets, employees have grown accustomed to their companionship. As we navigate the new normal, it’s crucial to listen to employees’ needs and incorporate them into the office culture.
The advantages of a dog-friendly office extend beyond mere employee satisfaction. Their research shows that 93% of dog owners in pet-friendly workplaces have more positive attitudes about going to work. The presence of pets in the office can relieve stress, boost company morale, foster connections between employees, and promote work-life balance.
Moreover, the data suggests that dog-friendly policies can significantly improve employee interactions, office culture, in-person attendance, and retention. By a margin of 30%, dog-friendly employers reported an actual improvement in these areas compared to those without such policies. The study found that nearly three in four dog owners without pet-friendly offices who are actively job seeking would be likely to accept a job at a company that allows dogs in the office.
Implementing a Dog-Friendly Policy: A Step-by-Step Guide
Transitioning to a dog-friendly office doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing endeavor. Companies can start small by designating specific days as dog-friendly or allowing employees to bring their dogs on special occasions.
As the company scales its dog-friendly offerings, it can consider implementing additional best practices. These could include creating co-working spaces for people and dogs, ensuring dog-safe items in common spaces, and providing amenities like pet relief areas and dog-friendly hydration stations.
At Mars Petcare, they’ve even introduced a unique tether system at workstations that allows pets to comfortably wander without straying too far from their owners. They also use color-coded leashes to signal the level of engagement each pet may welcome.
The CESAR Workplace Grants: A Step Towards a Dog-Friendly Future
To further promote dog-friendly workplaces, Mars Petcare has launched the CESAR Workplace Grants. The grants aim to help businesses make simple changes to welcome dogs into offices or to enhance their current dog-friendly offerings.
The CESAR Workplace Grants are designed to support businesses in various ways. They can be used to help with responsible pet ownership support, such as signage, behavior training classes, or installing leash hooks. They can also be used to offer health and safety support, like dog-friendly water fountains or adding safety-promoting dog elements. Additionally, the grants can be used to support engagement and celebration initiatives, like creating interactive areas or content to promote a dog-friendly workplace.
With plans to award $75,000 across more than 15 companies, businesses can use the grant funds for a variety of purposes to make their workplaces more welcoming to dogs. This initiative is a testament to Mars Petcare’s commitment to making the world a more dog-friendly place.
The application window for the CESAR Workplace Grants closes on Friday, August 11, 2023, at 11:59 PM EST. Businesses interested in a CESAR Workplace Grant can apply through the official website.
The CESAR Workplace Grants will be awarded following an application process. A panel of experts in design, animal welfare, and dog-friendly workplace programs will review the applications and select the recipients. Grant applicants will be notified in fall of 2023 as to their grant award status.
Conclusion
The future of work is not just hybrid; it’s also dog-friendly. By embracing our furry friends in the workplace, we can foster a more engaging, satisfying, and productive work environment. So, let’s unleash the power of pawsitivity and pave the way for a dog-friendly future!