How to make a workspace that is pet-friendly and that everyone can endure.

Bringing their dogs to work is one of the numerous benefits that firms are providing to their workers when they return to work for the first time in almost two years.

Many readers weighed in on the benefits and drawbacks of such a benefit. It might be difficult to decide whether or not to allow pets in the workplace. Bringing animal pals to work may reduce stress, boost socializing, and provide delight for many employees. However, commenters pointed out that the experience for some people might be everything but pleasant.

So, what is the best process for organizations that wish to provide the benefit to employees who return to work? According to pet experts, there are several actions that corporate leaders could take to reduce the friction that may arise as a result of making the workplace pet-friendly. For starters, companies that have brought pets into the office urge continual communication.

“It's an ongoing conversation,” said Sarah Lowery, head of culture and facilities at San Francisco-based software company Sendoso, which has been dog friendly for nearly four years. “We try to make sure we communicate to everyone that if there’s anything you’re uncomfortable with, let us know.”

Purina PetCare and Rover, an online dog-sitting service, say they've learned a lot over the years, both in terms of establishing pet-friendly offices and examining best practices from other companies. Here are their recommendations for businesses thinking about switching.

Evaluate personnel interests and concerns: Pet experts advise that executives first determine whether their staff are interested in having a pet-friendly office or have strong views against it. By conducting an anonymous poll, employees may be able to openly express their opinions on the subject. “Everyone has different feelings,” said Kate Jaffe, senior director of brand marketing at Rover. “Start by talking to the employee base … that will lead you to an effective space.”

Make sure your building allows pets: Not all buildings allow pets, which might affect your workplace policies. According to Kurt Venator, a chief veterinary officer of Purina, renters can occasionally bargain with landlords to make their offices pet-friendly. “Outline the benefits … then share how you will mitigate risk,” he said. “Sharing the guidelines and best practices [can help].”

Establish and disseminate clear guidelines: When it comes to developing new pet regulations, experts say that setting expectations up front is crucial. This might cover everything from describing what behaviors will not be accepted, such as excessive barking or hostility, to leash laws and where pets are permitted or not allowed to go – should pets be allowed in the kitchen, for example? Is it possible for those with allergies to work in certain areas? Rover, for example, collaborated with its landlord to designate one of its elevators as pet-friendly, enabling staff and visitors to use separate elevators if they don't want to share one with a pet.

Consider pet-gated spaces: According to experts, offices should consider gating pet areas, whether it's a pet owner's cube, a group of cubes, or just roaming or play areas for pets. Other employees may move about the office knowing where they might or might not run across a pet.

Find pet-friendly outside spaces: Pets will require a place to discharge themselves, as well as a place to move about and play. Leaders may wish to draw out safe walking routes for pet owners to take their pets for walks or restroom breaks, as well as locate any local greenspaces, according to Purina's Venator. Consider building an indoor dog playground if you don't have access to an outside location where your pet can run about and burn off excess energy, according to Jaffe.

Pet applications or promises should be required: Pet owners who wish to bring their dog to work should first fill out a pet application or pledge, which should include basic criteria such as adhering to the office norms, ensuring that all immunizations are up to date and that their canines fulfill a minimum age requirement, among other things. "A pet commitment may include something like, 'I'm accountable for cleaning and will report mishaps,'" Venator explained. "The fact is that most [issues] are reduced if you sign a pet commitment." Documents that have been signed might also aid with responsibility.

Be prepared for messes: Even with your best attempts, a pet-friendly office may get cluttered at some time. According to Jaffe, workplaces should maintain cleaning materials such as carpet cleaners, disinfectant sprays, and poop bags on hand at all times.

Be mindful of pet comfort and safety: A well-designed pet-friendly workspace should be both secure and welcoming to animals. This implies that businesses should consider closing off locations that might be hazardous to pets, as well as ensuring that pets have access to clean water, food, and rest spots. Rover assigns color-coded tags to pups so that staff can get a feel of the dog's attitude. Purina's Venator recommends that dog owners bring their dogs to the workplace when it is less congested and coworkers are aware of the situation in order to make the transition less unpleasant for the pet.

Welcome suggestions and complaints: In pet-friendly workplaces, it's critical that all employees feel empowered to offer ideas or file a complaint, according to Jaffe. Companies should ensure that their employees understand how to do so and that someone is on the other end of the phone to handle any difficulties that arise.

Be ready to adjust: Beyond all else, pet-friendly workplaces should be willing to listen and alter their rules as needed. What works for one workplace may not work for another, but experts say effective preparation may alleviate a significant portion of the stress. “It may seem a bit daunting, but as long as you have thoughtful planning, it can go extremely well and smoothly,” Venator said.