AHI's Employment Law Resource Center - Pets Might Not Be On The Clock, But They Should Be In The Office

Reprinted from the March 13, 2008 issue of HR Soapbox, a sounding board where AHI editors give you a lively and interesting read on HR topics causing consternation in the ranks, as well as the opportunity to put in your two cents.
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Pets Might Not Be On The Clock,
But They Should Be In The Office

The American Pet Product Manufacturers Association reports that allowing pets in the workplace increases productivity, decreases absenteeism, improves morale and camaraderie, reduces stress and anxiety, and encourages employees to work longer hours. Take it from someone who has been fortunate enough to bring her furry baby to work: those benefits are spot on.

Most days, Benny, my four-year-old Chihuahua/Dachshund mix (affectionately known as a Chiweenie), hangs out with his recently retired grandpa while mommy and daddy are at work. On several occasions, however, he's accompanied me to the office. Anxieties related to writing that seemingly impossible article instantly vanish on the days I can give him a hug. Staying late on those days doesn't faze me.

Half of all American households have at least one dog or cat that they treat as family members, says the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Think what a great (and no-cost!) recruiting and retention tool becoming a pet-friendly employer could be. I'd venture to say that pet owners would put a high price tag on being permitted to bring their pets to work. So high, in fact, they might be willing to accept a slightly lower-paying offer of employment than non-pet owners. I know I would.

There are typically two overriding "buts" to becoming a pet-friendly employer. The first: co-workers might have pet allergies. The second: co-workers might be afraid of the pets. Both valid concerns. Believe it or not, as a kid I was terrified of dogs. There are workable solutions, though, such as having separate work areas for those with pets and those with allergies, requiring pets to stay in their owners' work areas and/or on a leash at all times, and restricting pets from entering cafeterias, break rooms, restrooms, conference rooms, etc.

If instituting a pet-friendly policy is something your organization is considering, address:

How often will pets be allowed in the workplace? Daily? Once a week? Once a month? On an as-needed basis?
How should an employee request that he/she be allowed to bring a pet? Must he/she make a written request? To whom should the request be submitted?
What will decisions to permit a pet on premises be based on? Job duties? Seniority?

Finally, I have a message for pet owners. Taking your pet to work is a privilege. Treat it as such.

Make sure your pet is housebroken.
Always clean up after your pet. Have plenty of "doodle" bags, as my husband and I call them, on hand.
Teach your pet basic commands, like "sit" and "stay."
Bring a blanket, bed, or toy to keep your pet comfy and occupied. Just, please, leave the squeaky toys at home.
Don't allow your pet to roam into co-workers' workspaces unless you are 100% sure they welcome the intrusion.
Put a note on your office door or cubicle stating that there is a dog, cat, etc., in the area. It's as much for the safety of your co-workers as it is for your pet.

Good luck, stay legal, and don't forget June 20 is national Take Your Dog To Work Day!

Melissa V. Pomerantz (aka Benny's mommy!)
Editor

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