We’re a nation of dog-lovers. About one-third of Canadians have a dog. And, as our culture has embraced dogs as family members, we are also starting to see more examples of dogs in the workplace.
The same qualities that make dogs good for us at home – they lower stress levels, provide healthy distraction and encourage fitness – make them ideal office mates, according to Danielle Forbes, co-founder and executive director with National Service Dogs in Cambridge, Ont.
Research indicates that employees working in an environment in which dogs are welcome are more contented and healthier than those working in pet-free spaces. And, like dogs, Forbes says, these employees are more loyal and flexible. And companies that adopt a dogs-at-work policy see an immediate payoff: improved employee performance reviews and a sense of camaraderie among staff.
But before you bring your pooch into your financial advisory office — and encourage your staff to do the same — you need to ask some questions:
> Will my dog be comfortable with my work habits?
Take a few days to audit what you do in your office. How often do you meet with clients and for how long? How often are you sitting still? Do you tend to leave the office for lunch?
By studying your movements and habits, Forbes says, you can get a better idea of the demands that will be placed on your dog. For example, if you move around the office a lot, you have to examine whether that would put undue stress on your dog, which may have to be tied-down or gated during those times.
As well, Forbes says, you should take a good look at other environmental factors in the office. If your office is noisy or chaotic, for example, it might not work well for a dog.
“If you’re causing your dog stress, you’re not doing it any favours by bringing it to work,” Forbes says. “It’s better off at home.”
> Will my visitors be comfortable with dogs?
Let your clients and other visitors know about your dog policy in as many ways as possible (on your website and in newsletters, for example). On the days when there’s a dog present, Forbes adds, post signs on your office doors to give visitors an additional warning.
If you aren’t sure whether someone has allergies or fear issues with dogs (and sometimes those with the latter blame the former), you should always have a dog-free option available for guests. And of course, Forbes adds, dogs must be up-to-date with vaccinations and flea-free.
> What’s my dog’s personality?
Too many people, in their eagerness to bring Winston to work, aren’t up front with themselves about their dog’s suitability in an office. How your dog reacts to strangers or other dogs is important and can mark the difference between a great dog-at-work experience and a complete failure.
If a dog is shy or anti-social, a busy office might cause them undue stress. And if they’re barkers, Forbes says, there is no debate: “They should stay home.”
Consider a trainer if your dog doesn’t know the basic commands. “Sit” and “stay” are both essential, as is one that encourages them to eliminate.
It’s also important to consider your dog’s energy level, says Forbes. Some dogs can’t tolerate being still for extended periods of time and it’s not fair to force this situation.
“It’s not just about how it affects other people,” Forbes says. “Does the dog actually want to be there?”