Pets at ADM

In today’s fast-paced world, we spend a significant portion of our lives at work. While performing our everyday tasks, the presence of our furry companions can alter our work environments in ever better ways.

Here at ADM, we understand that our pets are more than just fun, furry colleagues; they can enhance our general wellbeing and satisfaction in our work. 

Why should companies introduce pets at the office? 

The shift towards pet-friendly offices isn't just a passing trend; it's a response to the growing understanding of how animals can enhance our daily experiences, especially in the workplace where stress and pressure can often run high. 

A recent ‘Dogs at Work’ survey revealed that 75% agree dogs positively impact employee morale. This statistic alone speaks volumes about the value people place on having their animal companions nearby. Furthermore, 70% of workers believe that having pets in the office would significantly reduce stress levels—a crucial factor in maintaining a healthy and productive work environment. 

ADM Pets

What are the psychological benefits of pets in the workplace? 

Engaging with pets has been scientifically shown to reduce cortisol levels, the hormone linked to stress. It likewise provides us an increase of feel-good chemicals in our brains consisting of oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine. This chemical cocktail can lead to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and an overall more positive outlook among staff. 

Pets also serve as social catalysts, encouraging interaction and collaboration between colleagues who might otherwise remain in their own bubbles. A friendly dog wandering through the office can spark conversations, break down social barriers, and create a sense of community that goes beyond work conversations.

These communications can result in boosted team effort, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills - every one of which are useful assets in any type of work environment. 

Creating a pet-friendly workplace

Creating a pet-friendly workplace requires planning and clear expectations for the office to be productive and positive for all employees. These could include: 

• Developing a comprehensive pet policy that outlines the expectations for behaviours, health requirements, and areas of the office that are pet friendly.   

• Pet proof the office by securing loose wires, removing toxic plants, and ensuring proper air circulation 

• Provide designated pet zones to ensure spaces for animals to play and rest without disrupting work areas, while also giving employees the opportunity to take short breaks to interact with the pets 

• Establish pet-free zones to respect the needs of employees with allergies or those who prefer a pet-free workspace, ensuring that the environment caters to everyone's comfort 

ADM pets and office morale 

At ADM, we are proud of our pet-friendly culture. Our office dogs Toastie, Lucy, Charlie and Teddy, have become beloved members of the team. Their presence not only boosts morale but also fosters a culture that prioritises work-life balance and mental health.

The positive impact of having pets in the office is clear—from the smiles they bring to the stress relief they provide, our four-legged friends contribute greatly to our workplace culture. 

Do you have an office pet? We’d love to see your furry buddy! Snap a pic and click below to share it with us!