According to the American Institute of Stress, the major source of tension in American adults is job related. Luckily, there may be a silver lining to workplace stress and it has four legs, fur and a wagging tail. A recent study from Virginia Commonwealth University shows that interaction with animals can help lower levels of cortisol, the hormone related to stress. It also notes that people who bring their pets to work saw an 11 percent reduction of stress. Walking pets during work breaks can also increase productivity because it encourages more breaks that help jumpstart employee creativity and interaction. The following are four tips for inviting animals on the job.
Tip #1: Start Slow for First-Timers
Pet parents taking dogs to work for the first time can bet on their four-legged friend becoming distracted. To ensure good behavior, start pets out with short time increments in the office. If possible, start by taking Fido to work for half days while he gets used to the environment. Reward pets for good behavior such as laying at your feet quietly and resisting the urge to jump excitedly on coworkers. For anxious or overly excited dogs, pet parents can soothe Fido with the Thudershirt Dog Anxiety Solution - a breathable, lightweight vest that wraps around pets and provides gentle comfort.
Tip #2: Simple Commands to Ensure a Peaceful Workday
"Place" and "Stay" cues will help pets understand what their pet parents expect from them while at the office and provide a recognizable area for the dog to go when a break is needed. To begin, select a rug with non-slip grip (like a bathroom rug or yoga mat) and place it by your feet. Reward Fido when he stands or lies down on the rug. From there, add the command "place" so he associates this area with the word. Once the pet understands "place," add the command "stay." Soon, pets will begin to understand that the rug, or "place," is somewhere to go to sit and "stay". Don't forget to bring your rug to work! This not only works with a rug, but also with your dog's bed. Plus, bringing it to the office can calm dogs because it smells like home and helps make the new surroundings more familiar.
Tip #3: Expel Excess Energy Before Heading to the Office
It's normal for younger or easily excitable dogs to be very distracted at the office, but teaching pets manners and keeping them entertained can be easy. A half hour before heading in to the office, take him or her for a walk to burn off any excess energy. During work hours, bring a toy that can be filled with treats and provide hours of entertainment.
Tip #4: Arrive at the Office Safely
A key component of taking pets to work is their safety traveling to and from the office each day. Contrary to popular belief, some pets don't enjoy car rides. If this is the case, start pets out by only going a few miles and then gradually work up to the length of the commute. In addition, 61 percent of owners surveyed by the American Pet Products Associations admitted they do not secure or restrain their dog in the car. An unrestrained pet can cause distracted driving, which can harm themselves and the driver in an accident. Use a dog seatbelt or barrier to help keep pets contained and comfortable. Also, keep pets out of the front seat unless they are secured in a booster seat that won't trigger the front airbag in an accident.
Source: Petco
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