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Pets At Work
Niki Behrikis Shanahan
In a recent nationwide survey, The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA) found a way to enhance performance levels and promote office efficiency at work. They found that when employees took their pets to work, it created a more productive work environment in 73 percent of the participating companies.
Once pets were introduced into the work environment, the stress levels dropped and motivation, creativity and productivity rose. All the companies agreed that having pets at work relaxed their staff.
Petoftheday.com recently polled their readers with this question: “Does your workplace allow pets?” 20% said yes, 15% sometimes, and 64% said no.
Former New Hampshire Governor, Jeanne Shaheen, proclaimed June 21, 2002, “Take Your Dog To Work Day.” She stated that since pets comprise a majority of the population of our state, and are increasingly an integral and important part of our families, bringing their dogs to work would serve as a public acknowledgement of the animal-human bond.
Governor Tony Knowles of Alaska also declared a “Take Your Dog To Work Day” in June of 2002. Pet Sitters International, a King, North Carolina organization for professional pet sitters, organized this special day. The group succeeded in getting the proclamation signed in Connecticut, Arkansas, Missouri, New Jersey, New Hampshire and Alaska. More than 5,000 companies throughout the U.S. requested information on how to participate in the 2001 event.
It’s unclear why these proclamations were limited to dogs, but it’s clearly a good start to generate public awareness of the great benefits of having an animal companion. It also serves as a statement that our beloved pets are part of our families. I must admit, though, that my cats really don’t want to go anywhere.
One company that celebrates “Take Your Dog To Work Day” is Replacements, Ltd., the china matching company in Greensboro, NC. It is considered one of the most anticipated days of the year. They’ve had over 100 employees bringing their furry friends to work! They set up two doghouses in their facilities that are used to collect special treats for special pets. They donate these items to their local animal shelter.
This year “Take Your Dog To
Work Day” is Friday, June 20, 2003. For additional information, and an action
kit for companies to use, go to this website:
http://www.petsit.com/tydtwd/default.asp.
Niki Behrikis Shanahan is the author of There Is Eternal Life For Animals, The Rainbow Bridge: Pet Loss Is Heaven's Gain, and Animal Prayer Guide. Pete Publishing, www.eternalanimals.com. Available at amazon.com. Article copyright 2003 Niki Behrikis Shanahan. All rights reserved. Not to be used without author's explicit written authorization.