We know the price of happiness in the office - all it takes is one dog

Warm, fluffy, uplifting, and stress-relieving. These are the adjectives employees use to describe one of the non-monetary benefits. In today's dynamic business world, companies are constantly seeking innovative ways to improve the well-being of their employees. One solution that is gaining increasing popularity is the "bring your pet to the office" initiative.

Antal, by successfully listening to its employees, is implementing this initiative, bringing unique benefits to both the beneficiaries and the entire work environment. What does introducing such a benefit offer to employees and employers? How can you implant this idea in your own company?

Positive aspects of animals in the office

Animals, especially dogs, are known for their ability to improve mood and reduce stress levels. Introducing dogs to the office can contribute to creating a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Edyta Morek, Senior IT Consultant, Antal with her dog

Employees report improved well-being, and interactions with their four-legged friends often lead to increased team cohesion and mutual support. Moreover, the presence of animals fosters a healthy break from daily tasks, resulting in higher productivity and creativity.

Katarzyna Bątkiewicz, Senior IT Consultant, Antal with her dog

Introducing animals into the workplace also has a positive impact on employee loyalty. At Antal, the "bring your pet to the office" initiative was enthusiastically embraced by teams in all regions, appreciating the opportunity to integrate professional and personal life. This, in turn, translates into greater commitment to work and a positive image of the company as a place friendly to both people and their animal companions.

How to start such an initiative in your company?

Introducing dogs to the workplace can bring many benefits, but it also requires careful planning and thoughtful implementation. Here are the steps that will help effectively introduce this initiative in your company:

Establishing a clear policy: The first step is to develop clear rules regarding the presence of animals in the office. Consider issues such as responsibility for the animal, health and vaccination requirements, and workplace conduct guidelines. It's important for all employees to be aware of these rules and commit to adhering to them.
Preparing the office space: Your office must be safe and comfortable for both animals and employees. This may involve designating specific areas for animals to rest and adjusting some spaces to avoid potential hazards.
Communicating with the team: It's crucial to ensure that all employees are comfortable with the idea and fully informed about the new rules. Conducting a survey or holding a meeting to discuss any concerns and suggestions is valuable.
Trial period: Starting with a short trial period allows for an assessment of how introducing animals impacts the work environment and whether additional adjustments are needed. You can begin with one day a week, gradually increasing the frequency.
Collecting feedback from employees: Regularly gathering feedback from employees is key to the success of this initiative. It allows for the adjustment of rules and procedures to better serve both employees and their four-legged companions.
Education and awareness: Conducting educational sessions on proper animal care and behavior can help employees better understand and engage in the initiative.
Regular assessment and adaptation: Continuous monitoring and evaluating the program allow for necessary changes and ensure that the initiative remains beneficial and effective.

By implementing these steps, your company can effectively introduce and enjoy the benefits of having animals in the office. This will not only improve the work atmosphere but also contribute to building a positive image of the company as a friendly and modern workplace.