Shawnee Love   •  
July 10, 2015

Having a pet in the workplace can be a great asset to the culture.  They become a conversation piece and connection tool between people who might not normally interact.  Sometimes they remind us to take breaks or simply smile when they come for a visit.  They can be fun if they are inquisitive and playful, or relaxing if they are just hanging out and letting you pet them.

On the other hand, they can be distracting and noisy, choosing to bark or jump up on you at awkward times. They can take a disliking (or excessive liking) to customers at inappropriate moments, and employees and customers can be allergic.  There is also no guarantee that the various pets will get along and “accidents” on office furniture and floors are particularly vile.

I personally am a fan of having a dog around the office for the reasons cited above.  But recognizing the challenges, I have laid out the parameters for pets in the office in advance of any being invited.

Where do you stand?