A new initiative in Australia is addressing the growing interest in pets joining employees at work. Currently, 64% of workplaces lack formal policies supporting pets, prompting the introduction of the Pets in Business program. This initiative seeks to develop comprehensive policies that accommodate the needs of businesses, non-pet owners, and staff who own pets.
Trish Ennis, CEO of CANA, emphasized the increasing significance of pets in Australian life. “With many companies adopting hybrid work models, allowing employees to split their time between home and office, there is a growing desire to bring pets to work,” she noted.
Research underscores the appeal of pet-friendly workplaces. A significant 85% of Australian dog owners expressed they would spend more time in the office if accompanied by their pets. Furthermore, employees in pet-friendly environments report higher satisfaction levels—63% are “very satisfied” with their work environment, twice the number compared to workplaces where pets are prohibited.
Ennis highlighted the complexities of creating pet-friendly workplaces, stressing the need to balance the interests and rights of all employees while ensuring animal welfare and managing liability risks. Certain workplaces, such as those with high-risk machinery, may not be suitable for pets. Additionally, specific animals, such as snakes, spiders, and uncaged rabbits prone to chewing cords, are prohibited. Ennis advised that all pets should be trained and non-disruptive, particularly noting the challenge posed by reactive dogs that may bark at others.
CANA’s Pets in Business program offers various resources to support workplaces, including Pet Resume templates, Pet Friendly Workplace guidelines, Pet Free Zone Posters, Rules for Pets and Humans, and an Office Pet Roster.
Ennis concluded by suggesting that implementing pet-friendly policies could enhance workplace satisfaction and productivity. “For companies aiming to increase onsite work engagement, adopting a pet-friendly policy could be an ideal solution,” she remarked.
This initiative reflects a proactive approach to accommodating the evolving expectations of Australian employees regarding pets in the workplace.
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