Office animals can positively impact your psychological wellbeing, claims specialist
The surge of remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic has not only benefited professionals but also their pets. With home offices, dining tables, and even beds serving as workspaces, pets have the company of their owners throughout the day, and vice versa.
However, one may wonder if this setup extends to the corporate world. BizSpace, a UK-based provider of flexible workspace solutions for small and medium enterprises, is collaborating with psychologist Dr. Gurpreet Kaur to explore the advantages of bringing pets to the office.
According to Dr. Kaur, interacting with animals aids in regulating stress, anxiety, and trauma responses. The calming presence of pets can lower cortisol levels, boost oxytocin, and promote nervous system regulation. Gentle touch, rhythmic movements, and non-judgmental companionship create a sense of safety, helping individuals transition from 'fight-or-flight' or dissociative states into a state of balance.
Research indicates that allowing dogs in the office can boost employee morale and decrease stress levels. Even simple acts like petting a dog can reduce cortisol levels, often referred to as the 'stress hormone.'
Short breaks to play with or pet a dog can help employees manage their workload effectively, while a cute pet in the office can also serve as a conversation starter, fostering bonds between colleagues.
Sophie Cheeseman, Deputy Art Editor at Horse&Hound's sister publication, experienced the benefits of bringing her whippet, Bluebell, into the office. She explained, "When our offices became dog-friendly, we decided to get a puppy. Bringing Bluebell to the office meant I had a companion all day if I sat somewhere new. It also encouraged me to take regular breaks to walk her, offering a welcome change of scene."
Bluebell too seemed to benefit, learning to adapt to busy environments and improving her socialization skills.
For dog owners who work in an office five days a week, the financial implications of doggy daycare can be substantial, with costs ranging around £650 (approximately $830) monthly. Pet-friendly offices and hybrid working arrangements can help offset these expenses.
If you're considering adopting a furry friend to keep you company while working from home, here are some dog breeds that are suitable for remote workers.
Subscribe to our newsletter for the best advice, tips, and top tech for your cherished pets.
- Pets have become constant companions for many professionals working from home due to the pandemic, as their homes now double as offices.
- BizSpace, in collaboration with psychologist Dr. Gurpreet Kaur, is investigating the positive impacts of bringing pets to the office, suggesting potential benefits for employees' mental health.
- Interacting with animals, such as pets, can help regulate stress, anxiety, and trauma responses by lowering cortisol levels, boosting oxytocin, and promoting nervous system regulation.
- Allowing dogs in the office can boost employee morale, decrease stress levels, and encourage bonding between colleagues through casual conversations about pets.
- Sophie Cheeseman, Deputy Art Editor at Horse&Hound's sister publication, reported improved companionship and a positive impact on her work-life balance when bringing her whippet to the office.
- For those considering adopting a pet for companionship during remote work, there are specific dog breeds suitable for home offices, including those that are adaptable, easy to socialize, and require less maintenance.
- Subscribing to newsletters offering advice, tips, and top tech for pet owners can help pet parents provide the best possible care for their furry friends in a home-and-garden setting, ensuring their health, wellness, and overall lifestyle.
