As April is National Pet Month, it is a time to celebrate all furry companions. It can be difficult for owners to leave their pets each day when they go to work. However, according to new research, one-fifth of workplaces across the UK allow their employees to bring their pets to work. Employees that feel guilty or anxious when away from their dog could stand to be relieved by bringing their pet to work. Nevertheless, an almost equal proportion of people have complained about pets in the workplace.
The Gender Pet Gap
The online job board CV-Library issued a topical survey which highlighted a “gender pet gap”. There is clear evidence that women demonstrate a preference towards bringing their pets to work. In Britain, 12% of men admitted to complaining about pets at work. This is a significant contrast to a minuscule 1% of women who have complained.
Nearly half of women believe that the presence of a pet at work eases stress and contributes to relaxation. In contrast, only 29% of men felt the same way. 21% of women believe that pets make them feel more friendly or approachable, compared to 14% of men. Only 30% of women accused pets of being distracting at work, compared to the 40% of men who felt the same way. In fact, around 19% of men class pets in the workplace as annoying.
Dogs Are the Most Popular Workplace Pet
Dogs appear to be the superior workplace pet, making up 87% overall. Cats are a much more unpopular option, with only 5% of employees admitting to bringing a feline to work. Rabbits followed close behind at only 2%.
What Workplaces Are the Most Pet Friendly?
Across Britain, London has the most pet friendly work spaces with 27% of workers admitting to having their pets with them. The South East, Wales and Northern Ireland follow closely behind. However, the North East and East Midlands prefer to keep their pets at home, with 87% and 91% of workplaces are against bringing in pets.
Is This a Trend for the Future?
Bringing animals into the workplace is an increasingly popular trend. More employees are urging their bosses to allow pet inclusion at work. In fact, 28% of people suggested they would be much more likely to apply for a job knowing that pets were welcomed in the workplace. Nevertheless, 20% of people would only agree to it if there were strict HR policies in place.