Pet-Friendly Companies
Pets have a special way of brightening our days. A wagging tail, a purr, or a dog leaning into your knee can lift your mood and bring comfort after a long day. Because of that connection, more companies are embracing pet-friendly policies and inviting animals into the workplace as part of their employee experience and workplace wellbeing strategy.
According to a survey conducted by Wellness® Pet Food, nearly 60% of respondents said they would get to know colleagues better if pets were allowed at work, 75% believed pets would help reduce workplace stress, and almost half of dog parents consider “pet perks” an important factor when choosing a job. These findings reflect growing interest in pets as contributors to a healthier, more connected workplace culture.
Below we outline what makes a company pet-friendly, the benefits of a pet-friendly workplace, and an example of these policies in action.
What Makes a Company Pet-Friendly?
Being truly pet-friendly goes beyond a casual statement of love for animals. It requires concrete policies and perks that support employees who are pet parents while maintaining a safe and productive environment. Common elements of pet-friendly companies include:
- Bring-your-pet-to-work policies: Formal guidelines that allow employees to bring pets into the office—whether on specific days or every day—are essential. Clear rules about behavior, areas where pets are allowed, and how to handle allergies or phobias help make these policies workable for everyone.
- Pet insurance support: Offering a stipend or partial coverage for pet insurance helps employees manage veterinary costs and shows that the employer values the wellbeing of employees’ families, including furry members.
- “Yappy” hours and pet-friendly events: Social events that include pets—like after-work gatherings or office celebrations—encourage team bonding and make pet parents feel included in workplace culture.
- Onsite doggy daycare or partnerships: Some employers provide doggy daycare facilities on campus or partner with nearby daycares so pet parents can drop off their animals or check on them during breaks. This reduces stress about leaving a pet alone and supports focus during the workday.
- New pet parent leave: Allowing a few days of flexible time off when employees adopt or bring home a new pet helps families establish routines and bond without financial or scheduling pressure.
- Pet bereavement leave: Recognizing the emotional impact of losing a pet and offering time off honors that relationship and supports employees through grief.
The Benefits of Working at a Pet-Friendly Company
Pet-friendly workplaces offer tangible benefits for employees, teams, and employers. Pets at work can improve mental and physical health, reduce stress, and strengthen social connections among colleagues. Research highlighted by Mental Health America and other institutions has found workplace pet programs can contribute to:
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Lower blood pressure
- Decreased feelings of loneliness
Additional studies have reported that pets in the workplace can lower stress levels for employees, increase positive social interactions, and even boost team trust, cooperation, and cohesion. When thoughtfully managed, pets can create a more relaxed atmosphere, improve morale, and encourage healthy breaks like short walks that get people moving during the day.
Of course, successful pet-friendly programs balance perks with clear expectations: respect for coworkers with allergies or fears, well-trained animals, designated pet-free zones, and procedures for cleaning and safety are all essential to making these programs sustainable and inclusive.
Wellness Pet — An Example of Pet-Friendly Policies in Action
Wellness Pet is one company that has incorporated pet-friendly values into its workplace. Committed to the wellbeing of both pets and people, Wellness Pet encourages employees to bring dogs to its home office and celebrates pet-focused events like Take Your Dog to Work Day. The office atmosphere includes treats, affection, and a culture that openly celebrates the bond between pets and their people.
Wellness Pet also supports employees with pet insurance options and provides learning opportunities through its Wellness Foundation and partnerships, such as access to programs for those interested in becoming registered therapy pet handlers. These initiatives demonstrate how a comprehensive approach—combining policies, financial support, and education—can make pet-friendly workplaces meaningful and beneficial.
Do you take your pet to work? If so, many companies encourage employees to share photos and stories of their pet-friendly workplace experiences to help inspire others and illustrate how pets can positively shape office culture.