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The increase in remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic has brought numerous advantages, including some that benefit our pets. Whether you work from a home office, the dining table, or even your bed, having your furry friends by your side throughout the day can be comforting for both you and them.
Have you ever noticed pets quietly enjoying a long-lasting dog chew in the office next to their owners? BizSpace, a company supporting small and medium enterprises in the UK with flexible workspace solutions, is collaborating with psychologist Dr. Gurpreet Kaur to explain the positive impact of allowing pets in the workplace on employees.
“Interacting with animals is an effective way to manage stress, anxiety, and trauma responses,” Dr. Kaur explains. “Their presence can help reduce cortisol levels, increase oxytocin production, and regulate the nervous system, similar to the calming effects of nature. Gentle touch, rhythmic movements, and non-judgmental companionship create a feeling of safety, enabling individuals to shift from high-stress states to a more balanced state.”
Studies show that having dogs in the office can boost employee morale and decrease stress levels. Even just petting a dog can reduce cortisol levels, known as the ‘stress hormone.’ Here’s how a furry companion can help lower your stress levels: taking short breaks to play with or pet a dog can break up the workday, and having a cute pup in the office can spark conversations among colleagues, fostering stronger bonds.
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Sophie Cheeseman, Deputy Art Editor at Horse&Hound, a publication related to PetsRadar, experienced the benefits of bringing her whippet, Bluebell, to the office. She said, “We decided to get a dog when our office became dog-friendly. As I worked in the office on Mondays and Tuesdays and the rest of the week at home, having a puppy seemed like the perfect arrangement.”
Sophie enjoyed having Bluebell with her throughout the day, providing companionship and encouraging screen breaks for walks outside. She also noticed that it was beneficial for Bluebell, as it helped her adjust to busy environments and improved her socialization skills.
There are financial benefits for pet owners as well. In the UK, dog parents can save money by avoiding monthly doggy daycare costs, which can amount to at least £650 (approximately $830) for those working in the office full-time. Pet-friendly workplaces and hybrid work setups can help pet owners cut down on expenses.
If you work remotely and are considering getting a furry companion for company, here are the best dog breeds for remote workers to consider.
