Pets should be allowed to accompany their owners to work when employees return to the office, according to a leading pet care company.
Webbox, which creates food, treats and toys for pets, is urging employers in Newcastle to allow employees the option to co-work alongside their pets.
They say it will help reduce post-lockdown anxiety for staff and their pets and believe employers should consider appointing a dedicated 'Chief Dog Officer' to help integrate dogs into the workplace.
Melanie Smith, pet care expert at Webbox, said: "Our pets have provided owners with huge emotional support during the pandemic and we believe their positive impact should be considered as we start to return to the office."
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She added: "In the aim of starting a drumbeat of forward-thinking employers in Newcastle, we hope to revolutionise the world of work as we know it, encouraging pets in the workplace to promote healthier company cultures."
With the coronavirus pandemic causing employers to reconsider previous ways of working, and many introducing flexible working between the office and home, Webbox believe it is the perfect time for employers to allow pets into the office.
They say some companies have started to recognise the value of pets and their impact upon their employees' wellbeing and pet incentives are becoming high on the list of jobseekers looking for their next role.
And with 'Take your Pet to Work Week' approaching this month, Webbox is keen to raise awareness of the countless benefits of a pet-friendly workplace for the wellbeing of both animals and employees.
Work-Life Balance
Webbox say the pandemic puppy boom over lockdown shows the UK's love for pets. However, the thought of leaving a dog home-alone for long periods of time is putting many pet owners in turmoil.
A pet-friendly zone in the office would help to bring peace of mind to many new pet parents, while encouraging flexibility with employees' schedules.
Doggy daycare prices can vary dramatically depending on location and the facilities available.
If offices became pet friendly, pet owners would save money and no longer need doggy daycare or make a lunch time dash to check on their pets.
Reducing Stress
As stress can often be one of the biggest challenges to employee engagement at work, having a friendly pet around the office would help to maintain a more calming atmosphere.
Stroking and pet play are great ways to relax the mind and spend less time worrying about that never ending to do list.
Keeping Active & Encouraging Creativity
Webbox say that traditionally office roles are centred around day-to-day desk working, which can be detrimental to health. But canine companions can solve the sedentary crisis and encourage more activity in the office.
Walking meetings are a step forward for the future way of working and taking a dog out for a brisk walk around the office block each day will help to boost productivity ahead of those important meetings and brainstorm sessions.
Boosting Mood
Webbox say the bond between humans and their pets is like no other, as pets show unconditional love despite the mood of their owner.
Good communication is a crucial element to the majority of workplace environments, and dogs naturally help to encourage conversation between others, which ultimately enhances company culture and promotes staff bonding.
