The short relaxation breaks created by his presence, and the interactions with him and colleagues that naturally follow, have the effect of reducing tensions and spontaneously improving social relations.
As a sign of a certain state of mind and a commitment to a good work-life balance on the employer’s side, allowing pets into the office also contributes to strengthening the corporate culture through the social link they represent.
We’re not talking about the “image” effect here, because the aim is not to exploit the animal and the precious bond between us. Far from marketing gimmicks, the aim is simply to foster the development of a positive, more “humane” working atmosphere, insofar as we remain respectful of everyone, including the animals concerned.
In principle, our pets are the privileged accomplices of our private moments, guardians of a temple where we take the time to simply let ourselves exist in communion with nature. Given this premise, does integrating this precious capsule of pure personal happiness into the bubbling magma of our professional lives really bring us closer to an ideal balance? It’s up to each of us to find our own answer!
From a legal standpoint:
Insofar as this does not conflict with the employer’s duty of care under employment law, or with any health and safety regulations specific to his or her sector of activity, the employer is free to decide whether or not to allow employees to bring their pets into the workplace, and under what conditions.
Common sense naturally calls for serious thought and consultation with each team involved to determine whether the majority would be in favor of welcoming an animal. Indeed, even if many of us enjoy working in the company of an animal, this is not the case for everyone, and some may have fears or allergies. This has to be respected, not only from a human point of view, but also from a legal point of view, as an employer would be in breach of its duty of care.
With the exception of assistance dogs
There is no law that explicitly grants a general right to assistance dogs in the workplace. However, an employer refusing access to an assistance dog in the workplace without objective justification could be accused of violating the employee’s personality in this way.
… And what about the dog’s point of view?
It’s true that taking “Loulou” with you to the office on a regular basis can have many beneficial effects, as it avoids a potentially painful temporary separation, especially if the dog is very attached to its owner and the only alternative is a long wait alone at home. However, we should bear in mind that the office is not naturally the ideal place for an animal.
We certainly enjoy it, and it’s even better if it helps our colleagues relax, but does the animal really benefit from it? In some cases, wouldn’t it be better with a professional dog-sitter, outside and in the company of other dogs in a suitable environment?
We have a responsibility towards them, and their well-being must come before anything else! Cats, for example, are more territorial and tend to prefer their familiar environment, making it difficult for them to move around frequently. Dogs, on the other hand, are real sponges, absorbing potential stress, tension and surrounding energies, good or bad.
So, while the experience can be very rewarding and enjoyable for both of you, it’s essential to take the time to ask the right questions and find the right solutions, as well as the right balance for each animal.
1. Prerequisites :
- Have set clear conditions and rules beforehand on what is and isn’t allowed.
- The animal must be fully vaccinated and in excellent health
- It must be well trained and properly socialized with humans and other animals.
- It must not suffer from phobias and/or particular anxiety states.
- He must be able to benefit from his daily dose of physical exercise outside the office.
- Zones where animals are allowed must be clearly defined and adapted to their needs.
- We also have to anticipate and deal with the issue of extra cleaning work to keep the premises clean and pleasant for everyone.
2. Some useful principles :
- The animal needs its own little corner, where it can rest with a sense of security and without being constantly solicited – a basket or cushion with its own scent, away from traffic and in a quiet place.
- He must also have a fresh water bowl permanently close to his basket. Meals should be taken as if at home, in a quiet environment, at the usual times.
- Plan a sufficient number of outings and walks during the day. Anticipate a solution for meetings and/or appointments where the pet cannot be present.
- Keep the animal calm and under control so as not to unduly disrupt work by barking or playing too boisterously, especially if several dogs are present at the same time in a restricted space.
- To ensure that a good story doesn’t turn into a disaster, the question of human-dog and dog-to-dog interactions also needs to be anticipated; confronted with particular situations, some dogs, even if they aren’t vicious, can have more or less violent reactions.
Consulting a professional – on the spot and in the presence of all the animals and humans concerned – can not only avoid a tragedy, but also bring about new, positive interactions between colleagues. - And since you can’t do things over again, it’s a good idea to lay down a few rules concerning the giving of treats, too, if you don’t want to end up with overweight office lulz very soon.
- Remain an active listener and maintain constant communication about the benefits and possible inconveniences brought about by the presence of these new 4-legged colleagues – be ready to adapt rules and conditions if necessary to ensure that this remains an enrichment for all.
Once these questions have been answered and the animals have been accepted, it’s time to define concrete rules: the number of animals in each team, possible days and/or rotations, species allowed, rules for cohabitation, etc.
Adopt a clear policy, particularly with regard to liability for damage.
Our insurance specialist’s view on the subject:
Your pet is an invaluable source of joy and happiness, but it can also unwittingly cause harm to others.
As the animal’s owner, you have a number of responsibilities, not least of which is to avert any dangers it may cause and, in the event that you are unable to avert certain dangers, to make good any harm caused to others.
Civil Liability (CL) Insurance for Pets :
- Essential (and highly recommended) for all pet owners, whatever their breed or category. It covers damage caused by your pet to others, including the cost of repairs, medical care and compensation.
Just like us, dogs grow old and, over time, may experience health problems. It may be a good idea to take out health insurance. This insurance works like a health and accident fund for your best companion. All you have to do is choose your deductible, which guarantees the best care while keeping your companion’s budget under control in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Depending on the company, it is also possible to insure your pet as part of the household inventory under “all risk” cover, so that he or she is covered in the event of an accident (illness not covered in this case).
Pet Health Insurance :
- Pays veterinary expenses in the event of illness or accident
Different levels of coverage and deductibles to suit your needs and budget. Fast, efficient reimbursement of expenses incurred.
Argos Group, Mastery. Clarity. Commitment.
