Meet Stanley! He is the new office puppy here at PCM. Although he is tiny but he has made a big impact, and puppy love is definitely in the air. He is one of many dogs that now go to work with their owners. Recent research conducted by Purina, a leading brand of dog food, reveals that 81% of workers feel pet-friendly workplaces are happier places. And if workplaces are happier, then people will thrive.
Pets in the workplace bring a new dynamic which positively impacts on people. There is generally a bonding around a ‘canine colleague’ who will definitely be considered part of the team. It creates more of a family style feel at work where the temporary distraction of a pet (usually a dog) breaks the intensity and lightens the mood.
Wellbeing in the workplace is hitting the headlines, particularly as a result of Coronavirus which has seen an overall increase in anxiety. Employers are very aware of the signs of mental stress, and will look at ways to reduce any work-related issues. However, life is lived outside of the workplace. Often it’s personal issues and stresses that people bring to work, and that makes the situation challenging. If people are struggling at work because of personal worries, then it may well affect performance.
A pet in the workplace is a great leveller. Animals will often come to people who are anxious and can make a huge difference to someone’s day. They don’t care what position the person has in the company. To the dog they are just a person that might need to play with a toy for a couple of minutes.
It’s not just mental wellbeing that improves with a workplace pet. Physical wellbeing also improves. Stress levels reduce, breathing is better, blood pressure is more stable and therefore concentration on tasks will improve. So many strategies are suggested to employers about ways to improve mental wellbeing in the workplace. It could be as simple as just getting a dog, why not?
Stanley has made lots of friends at PCM with all the team and visitors. He’s a little star and with puppy love in the air, it helps to remind us all that despite what’s going on in the world, a quick cuddle makes everything that little bit better.
