Pets are family. Just like children, they can be expensive. (Shutterstock)
Now that open enrollment is underway, benefits are top of mind for employees. With an evolving workforce of millennials, who are prioritizing pets over kids, pet-friendly benefits are becoming a key differentiator for companies attracting and retaining top talent. In fact, 60% of working pet owners would consider leaving their job if it conflicted with their ability to care for their pet.
With state legislation moving to acknowledge pets in the workplace, pets are becoming a priority and employers must adapt to meet these demands or employees will move on to companies that place a tangible value on pet care.
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As millennials become the dominant generation in the workforce, they and younger generations are after similar work perks to that of parents. It is not uncommon for employers to allow their employees to flex their hours to accommodate a child’s dentist appointment or to work-from-home when child care falls through, and pet parents want the same flexibility to care for their pets.
Given that millennials make up 35% of the workforce and are the largest working generation, it's just as probable that pet parents may need time for vet appointments as parents of children do when you consider millennials are three times more likely to have a pet than they are to have a child. Workplace policies must evolve to meet the modern workforce or else employers will struggle to hire new generations of workers.
The implementation of modernized workplace policies that value pet parents will not only attract top talent, but also encourage retention. This growing demand for pet-friendly policies and perks reflects a broader shift toward a more holistic understanding of employee wellbeing. Pet-friendly workplaces go beyond flexibility - they foster an environment where pets are not only accommodated but celebrated as part of the employee experience. Simple solutions like incorporating pets into social events or onboarding a new employee along with their pet will create a welcoming environment for employees and their pets.
For the remote workers, normalizing pets on calls reduces stress when a cat walks in the background of a virtual meeting or a dog barks can be heard. The inclusion of pets in company culture supports the company as a whole, not just pet parents. Pets have been shown to reduce stress, exactly what is needed in a fast-paced work environment. Creating a culture that values pets will attract and retain all demographics of workers, especially millennials.
In addition to fostering a workplace culture that is pet-inclusive, employers should consider creating physical environments that actively support pets and their owners. Beyond just allowing dogs in the office, employers should take the extra step to ensure dogs and employees are comfortable in the space. Creating designated zones for dogs to play and relax will limit distractions.
Offering food and water dishes, treats, toys, and dog-friendly furniture will help to make dogs and pet parents feel welcome. These efforts not only create a more enjoyable work environment but also position employers as thoughtful and supportive, which is key to retaining employees in today’s competitive job market.
For companies looking to implement pet-friendly practices on a larger scale, pet benefits can be added to total compensation packages. There are many options available including pet insurance, health spending accounts, and access to pet wellness programs. Compared to other, simpler pet inclusive perks, like throwing a dog-friendly happy hour, this can seem like the largest lift for companies, but it has arguably the greatest impact on employees.
After implementing a pet-health benefits plan, Samsung reported a 15x ROI on the program and as a company, saved employees $20,000 on vet bills. Alleviating financial burden from employees can go a long way in supporting employees and does not go unnoticed. With over 60% of employees considering leaving their job for a new position with more robust benefits and potentially lower pay, offering employees comprehensive benefits packages is more important than ever.
Notable companies including Amazon, Greenhouse, and Hyundai have made the move to distinguish themselves as leaders in the pet-friendly workplace space. Pet-Friendly Workplace certified companies demonstrate pet inclusivity through a mix of pet friendly work policies, pet friendly culture, dog friendly offices, and pet friendly benefits. Certifications can be flexed to prospective employees during the hiring process to showcase the company’s commitment to caring for any employee’s pet. For the pet owners, which is 66% of the United States, these certifications are an immediate green flag when looking for a new job.
Creating a workplace that is pet friendly doesn’t have to be overwhelming and you don’t need a physical space. Companies that don’t know where to start when implementing pet benefits should consider surveying their employees to assess their needs. Understanding how many employees have pets, what kinds of pets they have, and what support they need will provide valuable insights for tailoring initiatives.
Cerys Goodall, COO, Vetster
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