Office Pets Gain Popularity

A new survey reports that 15 percent of Americans bring their cats to work.

Pet-friendly workplaces are on the rise, and a new survey shows that U.S. companies continue to support the trend of allowing staff members to bring their companion animals to the office.

Today is Pet Sitters International’s ninth annual Take Your Dog to Work Day, and many companies already welcome office animals, according to the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association survey.

In the national poll of working Americans 18 years of age and over, 17 percent report that their company permits pets at work. However, 23 percent said they believe that pets should be allowed in the workplace.

Of those surveyed, most believe having pets at work helps reduce stress and makes people happier. Here are some additional findings:

• 75 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace make people happier.
• 70 million Americans believe office pets reduce stress.
• 47 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace leads to a more creative environment.
• 37 million believe having pets in the workplace decreases absenteeism.
• 41 million believe having pets in the workplace helps coworkers get along better.
• 46 million believe having pets in the workplace creates a more productive work environment.

The most common pet brought to work is a dog (76 percent), while 24 percent bring a small animal, and 15 percent bring a cat.

“This survey indicates that more people are realizing the importance of pets in the workplace,” said Bob Vetere, APPMA president. “Pets are becoming more of a welcome addition and proving to be beneficial to employee wellbeing and office culture.”