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The Best Dog Friendly Work Spaces Benefits

Many companies today, like Google and Amazon, are embracing pet friendly policies, making it easier to have your furry friend by your side during the workday. If you’re an animal lover, finding dog friendly work spaces can feel like the ultimate dream.

In this article, you’ll discover various pet jobs, from being a veterinarian to working at tech start-ups.

What are Pet Friendly Jobs?

Pet Friendly Policy

Pet friendly jobs are roles where companies allow employees to bring their pets, typically dogs, to the workplace or allow for flexible arrangements such as working remotely with pets.

These jobs are becoming more common as workplaces recognize the value of providing a pet environment.

Dog friendly work spaces might include an office that allows dogs to roam, dedicated pet zones, or a job where you work directly with animals. These jobs can range from traditional office roles to jobs in pet care industries like veterinary work, dog grooming, and dog walking.

Key Features:

  • Workplace Flexibility: Jobs that offer remote work or flexible schedules.
  • On Site Pet Policies: Offices with open door policies for pets, especially dogs.
  • Animal Related Roles: Jobs directly involving animals, such as trainers or groomers.

Working in a pet friendly job can significantly improve work life balance, especially for pet owners who want to spend more time with their furry companions. 

Many of these companies also offer perks such as “pawternity” leave, pet insurance benefits, and pet care amenities like dog parks or pet lounges. 

Why Are Pet Friendly Coworking Spaces Becoming Popular

These workplaces have grown in popularity due to changing attitudes toward work life balance and employee well being. As companies focus more on holistic employee satisfaction, they are discovering that pets play a significant role in reducing stress and improving productivity.

Why Companies Are Embracing:

  • Work Life Balance: Pets help employees feel more comfortable and relaxed during the workday.
  • Stress Reduction: Pets can decrease anxiety, which leads to better employee performance.
  • Company Culture: Allowing pets fosters an inclusive work culture.

Employees benefit from these policies in numerous ways. For one, not worrying about leaving pets alone at home for extended hours leads to higher job satisfaction.

Workplaces that allow pets often see increased collaboration among teams, as pets naturally encourage social interaction. This trend has been especially popular among companies with younger, more flexible workforces, who value non-traditional perks over rigid corporate environments.

10 Best Dog Friendly Work Spaces for Animal Lovers

Pet Friendly Workspace

Finding a job that not only aligns with your passion for animals but also allows you to bring your pet to work can feel like a dream come true.

Whether you’re a pet owner who wants to keep your furry friend by your side all day or you’re simply looking for a career that involves working closely with animals, there are plenty of job opportunities that fit the bill.

1. Veterinarian

A veterinarian provides medical care for animals, diagnosing and treating illnesses, performing surgeries, and giving routine vaccinations.

Veterinarians work in clinics, animal hospitals, or shelters, often in environments where animals are part of daily life. In veterinary clinics, staff members can sometimes bring their pets to work, which helps reduce stress and creates a positive atmosphere for employees and clients alike.

 Veterinarians are also likely to encounter a variety of animals throughout the day, which can make this job perfect for those passionate about animal care.

2. Pet Sitter or Dog Walker

Pet sitters and dog walkers provide daily care for pets when owners are unavailable. Their responsibilities include feeding, exercising, and sometimes administering medications.

This job offers flexibility, as most pet sitters and walkers work on a freelance basis or through a service. They can spend time outdoors and interact with different animals throughout the day.

This role is especially appealing to those who enjoy working independently and spending their day surrounded by animals. Since pet sitters and dog walkers usually work outside of traditional office settings, they often have the freedom to bring their pets along for walks and outings.

3. Pet Groomer

Pet groomers specialize in maintaining the hygiene and appearance of animals, typically dogs and cats. Groomers clean, brush, and style pets, often trimming fur and nails.

This job offers a hands-on approach to working with animals, and many grooming salons allow groomers to bring their own pets to work. Grooming jobs are available at stand alone salons, pet stores, or mobile grooming units, providing flexibility in how and where work is performed.

4. Animal Trainer

Animal trainers teach pets new skills and behaviors, working with animals on obedience, tricks, or specialized training like service dog training. Trainers work one-on-one with animals, often outdoors or in training facilities, making it ideal for people who want to be around animals all day.

Many trainers bring their pets to training sessions, incorporating them into their daily routines. This is an excellent role for those with a passion for understanding animal behavior and helping pets develop better habits, and the job often provides flexibility in terms of scheduling and work locations.

5. Dog Boarding and Daycare

A dog boarding employee oversees the care and socialization of dogs while their owners are at work or away. Responsibilities include feeding, supervising playtime, and ensuring the dogs’ safety. 

Employees at dog boarding are surrounded by dogs all day, making it an ideal job for those who love being around animals. 

Some facilities allow staff members to bring their own dogs to work, ensuring that employees’ pets are well cared for during the day as well. This job offers a dynamic, fun environment where the focus is on keeping dogs happy and entertained.

6. Pet Product Company Employee

Pet product companies, such as those that manufacture pet food, toys, or accessories, often have relaxed, pet policies. Employees working for these companies can bring their pets to the office, which creates a playful and welcoming environment.

Typical roles in this industry include product development, marketing, or customer service, all with a focus on improving the lives of pets and their owners.

Employees are encouraged to test new products on their own pets, giving them a personal connection to their work and allowing pets to be part of the office culture.

7. Freelancer (Writer, Designer, Developer)

Freelancers working as writers, designers, or developers often have the flexibility to work from home, making it easy to care for pets throughout the day.

Freelancers set their own schedules, allowing them to take breaks for walks or playtime with their pets. This job is ideal for those who value independence and want to avoid the constraints of a traditional office environment.

Freelancing offers the freedom to create a workspace that suits your needs, whether it involves a quiet corner of your home or a shared coworking space that allows pets.

8. Tech Start-up Employee

Tech start-ups are known for their relaxed, innovative cultures, and many allow pets in the workplace. Employees in tech start-ups might work in software development, marketing, or operations.

These environments often encourage creativity and collaboration, and pets are seen as a way to foster a fun, relaxed atmosphere. 

9. Pet Friendly Hospitality Jobs

Hotels, cafes, and restaurants that cater to pet owners often have pet policies for their employees. In a hospitality setting, employees may interact with customers’ pets or work in environments designed to accommodate animals. 

Some roles might involve serving food in a dog café or managing a hotel that offers pet accommodations. Employees in these businesses often bring their pets to work, enhancing the experience for both workers and guests. This job is ideal for people who love animals and enjoy working in customer service roles.

10. Non-Profit Animal Shelter Staff

Working in a non-profit animal shelter involves caring for homeless or abandoned animals, including feeding, cleaning, and providing medical care. Shelter staff members are surrounded by animals all day and play a key role in helping pets find new homes.

This is a rewarding job for those who want to make a difference in the lives of animals. Many shelters allow employees to bring their own pets to work, and employees often have opportunities to foster or adopt animals from the shelter.

Benefits of Working in a Pet Friendly Job

Successful Pet Friendly Workspace

Working in a pet friendly job offers numerous advantages, both for employees and employers. One of the primary benefits is the reduction of stress. Studies have shown that having pets nearby can lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, and promote a calming environment. The simple presence of a pet, whether it’s a dog curled up at your feet or a cat on your lap, helps employees manage work pressures more effectively.

Another significant benefit is increased employee loyalty and satisfaction. When employers offer pet policies, employees tend to feel valued and appreciated, which often leads to higher retention rates. Employees no longer have to worry about leaving their pets at home for long hours or paying for pet care services.

Lastly, pet environments contribute to better morale and a positive work environment. Pets naturally encourage social interaction between coworkers, which can improve team dynamics and collaboration.

How to Find Pet Friendly Jobs

Pet Friendly Trends

If you’re looking for a pet friendly job, start by searching popular job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Use specific keywords like “pet-friendly” or “dogs allowed” to filter job postings that include flexible work arrangements for pet owners. Companies often highlight pet perks in their job descriptions, so these platforms are a great starting point.

Another approach is to explore pet specific job boards such as PetSitter.com, Wag!, or Rover. These platforms are tailored for people who want to work directly with animals, such as dog walkers, pet sitters, and groomers.

Many companies in the pet industry, from pet food manufacturers to pet supply retailers, often offer relaxed pet policies for their employees.

Companies with Pet Workspaces

Several known companies have embraced pet work policies, offering unique benefits to employees who want to bring their pets to work. These companies recognize the positive impact that pets have on workplace morale and employee well-being.

1. Google

Google is one of the most famous companies for allowing dogs in many of its offices. Employees are encouraged to bring their well-behaved dogs to work, contributing to the overall positive, creative atmosphere.

Google’s pet policies are part of their broader culture of flexibility and inclusivity. In certain offices, there are even designated dog areas where pets can relax and socialize, creating a welcoming environment for both pets and employees.

2. Amazon

Amazon’s headquarters in Seattle is renowned for its dog friendly policy. There are over 6,000 registered dogs at the Seattle campus alone.

Amazon offers amenities like dog friendly spaces, treats, and water stations throughout the office. Employees can take their dogs for walks on campus, and there’s even an on-site dog park. This policy has become a cornerstone of Amazon’s company culture, making the workplace more enjoyable for dog owners.

3. Etsy

Etsy allows employees to bring their pets to work, aligning with the company’s emphasis on creativity and work life balance. Etsy’s open workspace is perfect for pets, and the company’s culture encourages interaction among employees, their pets, and visitors.

4. BrewDog

BrewDog, the Scottish brewery, is known for offering “pawternity leave” to employees. This benefit allows new pet owners to take time off to care for their furry family members.

BrewDog’s headquarters is fully pet friendly, and dogs are welcome in both the office and the on-site taprooms. This unique policy reflects the company’s focus on both employee well-being and pet care.

Challenges of Pet Jobs

Dog Agression

While pet friendly jobs can offer numerous benefits, they also come with certain challenges that employers and employees must navigate.

Workplace Not Equipped

One of the most significant issues is that not all workplaces are equipped for pets. Many offices lack the space or facilities needed to accommodate animals, such as designated pet areas or outdoor spaces for walks. 

Health Regulations

Workplaces may have strict health and safety regulations that prevent pets from being allowed on-site, especially in industries like food services or healthcare.

Misbehaved Animals

Not all pets are suitable for office environments. Pets that are prone to excessive barking, aggression, or anxiety can become disruptive in a shared workspace. This not only impacts productivity but can also create an uncomfortable atmosphere for coworkers. Employers may need to enforce strict guidelines about which pets are allowed and how they should behave while in the office.

Allergies

Lastly, allergies and fears from coworkers present another hurdle. Some employees may have severe pet allergies or phobias, making it difficult for them to work in an environment with animals.

In these cases, companies must find a balance between accommodating pet owners and respecting the needs of other employees, potentially by designating pet-free zones or specific pet days.

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