The modern Indian workplace is evolving, with a growing emphasis on employee well-being and a shift towards more inclusive and supportive environments. One of the most heartwarming trends emerging is the adoption of pet-friendly policies and the integration of animal-assisted therapy (AAT), often referred to as pet therapy. This trend is gaining momentum, driven by a recognition of the profound benefits that pets can bring to the workplace, including stress reduction, improved morale, and enhanced team cohesion. This blog post will delve into the reasons behind this trend, the benefits it offers, and the considerations for implementing pet therapy in Indian workplaces.

What is Pet Therapy?

Pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy (AAT), involves the use of animals to support the treatment of physical and mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety.  AAT utilizes specially trained animals that meet specific criteria as part of a treatment plan to improve physical, social, emotional, or cognitive functions. This therapy is administered by health professionals, with progress being documented and evaluated for effectiveness. The goals of pet therapy programs can include improving motor skills, increasing self-esteem, and developing social skills. Ultimately, pet therapy builds on the pre-existing human-animal bond, offering a unique approach to improving overall well-being.               

Benefits of Pet Therapy in the Workplace

The concept of pet-friendly workplaces is relatively new in India, but it's rapidly gaining traction. Several factors are contributing to this shift. Firstly, there's a growing awareness of the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace. Companies are recognizing that employee stress and burnout can negatively impact productivity and overall business performance. Secondly, there's a rising trend of pet ownership in India, particularly among younger generations. As people increasingly view pets as family members, they are more inclined to seek workplaces that accommodate their furry companions. Thirdly, the influence of global organizations that have successfully implemented pet-friendly policies, such as Google, Amazon, and Salesforce, is also playing a role, inspiring Indian companies to follow suit.

Stress Reduction and Improved Mental Well-being

The integration of pets into the workplace offers a multitude of benefits, both for employees and the organization as a whole.

Enhanced Morale and Job Satisfaction

One of the most significant advantages of pet therapy is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety. Interacting with animals, particularly dogs, can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and boost the production of oxytocin, often referred to as the "love hormone." This can lead to a sense of calm, relaxation, and improved mood among employees. Experts also point out that the interaction with animals can create a sense of calm and reduce anxiety and grief.

Fostering Social Interactions and Team Bonding

Pet-friendly policies can significantly boost employee morale and job satisfaction. When employees feel that their workplace cares about their well-being, they are more likely to feel valued and engaged. The presence of pets can create a more positive and enjoyable work environment, making employees look forward to coming to the office. Studies have shown greater employee engagement and retention in pet-friendly workplaces.

Contrary to the initial perception that pets might be distracting, studies have shown that they can actually boost employee productivity. Short breaks to interact with pets can be rejuvenating, especially on busy days, helping employees to refocus and be more efficient.

Increased Productivity

Pets can act as "social lubricants," facilitating interactions and building connections among colleagues. They can break down social barriers and encourage team bonding, whether through shared walks, playdates, or simply gathering around to pet the dog. These interactions can lead to stronger teamwork, collaboration, and a more positive organizational culture.

Creating a Pet-Friendly Environment

Implementing pet therapy in the workplace requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a safe and positive experience for all parties involved.

Considerations on Implementing Pet Therapy in Indian Workplaces 

Establishing Guidelines and Policies

Before introducing therapy dogs, it's crucial to create a safe and welcoming environment. This includes pet-proofing areas, setting up designated pet zones, and ensuring access to outdoor spaces for exercise and bathroom breaks.

Addressing Concerns and Accommodations

Training is essential for both employees and therapy dogs. Employees should learn how to interact with the dogs appropriately, while therapy dogs need basic training and certification to handle the workplace environment.

Training for Employees and Therapy Dogs

Clear guidelines and policies are essential for a smooth integration of therapy dogs. These policies should outline the responsibilities of pet owners, set behavior standards for the dogs, and address potential concerns like allergies or phobias.

Choosing the Right Therapy Dogs

Not everyone loves pets, and some employees may have allergies or phobias. It's important to address these concerns by creating designated pet-free zones or offering accommodations.

Pioneers of Pet Therapy in India’s Corporate Sector

Harvesting Robotics

A Hyderabad startup, Harvesting Robotics, has hired a golden retriever named Denver as its Chief Happiness Officer. Denver doesn't code but lifts spirits and brings joy to the office. His presence has boosted employee morale, making the workplace more fun and pet-friendly. The internet loved the idea, especially the playful posts about Denver "taking care of funding" and asking if he could be CEO.

InMobi

InMobi is evaluating the possibility of creating dedicated pet-friendly facilities within its workplace, such as outdoor areas or designated indoor spaces

Bizongo

Bizongo has expanded its bereavement leave policy to include pets and has created a group for pet parents to organize regular meet-ups.

WeWork India

WeWork India has expanded its definition of family to include pets, allowing employees to take bereavement leave to mourn the loss of their pets. They are also planning adoption drives to promote responsible pet ownership.

Simpl

Simpl has introduced a pet adoption and pet care leave policy, allowing employees to take time off for pet-related needs.

Conclusion

The trend of pet therapy in Indian workplaces is expected to continue growing. As more companies recognize the benefits of pet-friendly policies, we can anticipate seeing more organizations adopting these initiatives. This will not only contribute to improved employee well-being but also enhance the overall work culture and attract top talent. The integration of pet therapy aligns with the broader shift towards creating more human-centric and supportive workplaces in India.