REAPING THE BENEFITS OF WFH PETS WHILE KEEPING IT PROFESSIONAL BY KELLY DUGGAN
long with COVID-19, 2020 brought a rush in demand for dogs and cats, with adoptions and pet sales soaring as Americans tried to fill the distancing and emotional void with a new companion. For those of us already in the work from home (WFH) world, our coworker pets had most likely found their place and routine. Those of us new to WFH with pets discovered they now had default co-workers as the WFH scenario went on and on and on.
WORKING WITH OFFICE PETS Having always had pets, we’ve had many years to learn the benefits of being a WFH pet owner. Here are our top five. Decreased stress levels – The Human Animal Bond Research Institute has shown owning a pet can reduce depression and anxiety and have other positive effects on your health, such as lowering your blood pressure. Working at home with a family pet can also decrease your level of workplace stress, whether physical or emotional. Increased productivity – Some studies have shown that WFH owners with pets increase their productivity. For instance, when working away from home it’s easy to worry about your pet and its care. When you can easily monitor your pet as you do your work, you can be more productive and worry less.
#moxieWFHpets Kodiak and Winchester— dogs of Heather Dombos, Moxie’s CEO and Publisher—waiting for the workday to be done. 22
April 2021
Feeling better – The Mental Health Foundation has shown how pets offer unique companionship, increasing happiness as well as motivation. Feeling good is an essential part of being productive. Working from home can be
challenging and lonely for some people. Your four-legged friend can reduce those feelings and provide company.
Taking breaks – We all love taking a break! When working in a WFH environment, it can be way too easy to stay in the same location for hours. Owning a pet offers a great opportunity to take occasional breaks throughout the day. Pets (especially dogs!) not only crave attention, but they thrive on an established routine. These breaks can help stretch your legs and clear your mind. Pet enrichment – One WFH benefit is that your presence is good for your pet. WFH lets you interact more with your pet and reinforce home rules. By doing so, they will learn when it’s time to play, but also understand when it’s time for work. Ultimately, it will increase the bonds you share and lead to a better quality of life for you both.
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