Working With Pets

Working from home with pets has become the new normal. A study on the role of pets in Work-Related Exhaustion and Job Satisfaction concluded that pets are a significant social job resource for some remote-working pet owners, which may influence job satisfaction and lower work exhaustion.1 For enthusiastic pet-owning remote workers, the lines between professional and personal spaces blur, creating a home office that has to accommodate both your work needs and those of your furry companions. Suffice it to say anyone can make productive and pet friendly offices if they make the decisions about their office spaces.

In this article, let’s look into the considerations and tips for creating an office environment that is pet-friendly and productive.

Benefits of Pet Friendly Offices at Home
Benefits of Having Pets in Home Offices

Benefits Of Pets In The Workplace

The benefits of having pets in any workplace are numerous as opposed to the general thought of pets as distractors. Such as

  • Taking the edge away by creating a more relaxed workspace atmosphere
  • A little ambient sound when it gets too grim
  • By reacting, pets can let you know of interruptions by either people or hazardous events like smokes
  • Pets force a habit of taking breaks for the owners
  • They can serve as ice-breakers during video calls when pets appear suddenly
  • You can look forward to increased rapport with pet-loving clients or colleagues
  • By looking after the needs of pets like walking, feeding, etc. you can develop better work routines and schedule management
  • Having pets around increases patience and adaptability
  • Pets can help reduce stress and anxiety during high-pressure workdays by offering companionship
  • They lead to a decreased feeling of isolation while working remotely
  • Looking after pets leads to increased movement throughout the day and results in an active lifestyle
  • Outdoor breaks with dogs can promote fresh thinking and creativity

For an expansive list of what types of pets people can have while they work from home, check out the So-Ho list.

Essential Elements of a Pet-Friendly Home Office

With a pet and an office at home, you need to ensure a few important things for the safety and comfort of your furry friends. Such as

  • Durable, pet-resistant furniture choices like texture
  • Effective and out-of-sight cable management to avoid unnecessary interruptions or tripping hazards
  • Surge protection to avoid any changes of smoke or fire
  • Pet-proof storage solutions like tucked-away cabinets or foldable racks
  • Cleaning surfaces with pet-friendly materials
  • Ventilation and air quality considerations with everyone’s comfort in mind

How Do I Keep My Pets From Disrupting Video Calls?

Since we are talking about pets in a workplace, and that workplace happens to be your home, chances are that pets can cause minor disruptions. Learning how to work from home with pets effectively is key to minimizing these distractions. And keeping pets in check during video calls is all about smart preparation and consistency. So here’s what you need to do:

  • Set up a dedicated quiet space using pet gates or closed doors
  • Get your pets moving before important calls; a tired pet is typically a quiet pet
  • Stock your desk with your pet’s favorite toys and treats
  • Position your workspace strategically – if your pet can’t make eye contact, they’re less likely to demand attention
  • Train your pets to understand the concept of “office hours” through positive reinforcement. It can take time, but it is very effective
  • Keep a stash of emergency treats nearby for those unexpected situations
  • Pet entertainment can lift some pressure, and spare your attention
  • Use a noise-cancellation mic to disregard the habitual buzz
  • Use a professional background for your backdrop to avert the occasional pet slip-up

Smart Storage Solutions for Pet Supplies in Your Office

If you feel like pet supplies are taking over your home office, chances are you’d love to have a perfect storage solution that doesn’t affect the space or style. Here are some important storage ideas that might help you out.

  • Dual-Purpose Furniture
    • Use an ottoman with hidden storage for toys
    • Install a filing cabinet with a bottom drawer for pet supplies
    • Pick a desk with built-in cabinets or trays for treats and supplies
  • Wall-Mounted Solutions
    • Install floating shelves for treats and supplies
    • Add hooks for leashes and collars
    • Mount a compact pet food dispenser if space permits
  • Door Solutions
    • Over-the-door organizers for supplies
    • Behind-door hooks for towels and cleanup items
    • Door-mounted storage baskets
  • Clean-Up Zone
    • Compact vacuum in a storage cabinet
    • Roll-out mat storage
    • Pet wipes and cleaning supplies in a desk drawer
  • Hidden Feeding Station
    • Pull-out drawer with food/water bowls
    • A corner feeding station with storage above is preferred
  • Odor control strategies
    • Use an air purifier
    • Position the air purifier between pet areas and the workspace
    • Keep a window cracked for natural airflow, if and when needed
  • Lastly, label everything, keep daily items within arm’s reach, and store less-used items in higher or harder-to-reach spaces
Pets In The Home Office

Creating Designated Pet Spaces Within Your Office

Designating special spaces for your pets can help structure your home office. Here are some tips to design a comfortable and functional space for your pet while maintaining productivity

  • Create a cozy corner with a plush bed, positioned away from high-traffic areas
  • Place a non-slip mat under water bowls to prevent spills and protect flooring
  • Install a window perch for cats to provide entertainment and natural light exposure
  • Use cabinets and storage spaces for toys within reach to avoid tripping hazards
  • Add washable pet blankets to protect office furniture while ensuring comfort
  • Position a scratching post or pet tree near your desk for easy monitoring
  • Use a small rug as a play zone and help pets understand boundaries
  • Keep a handy pet gate nearby for temporary separation during important calls or focus sessions
  • Keep your pets in consideration when setting temperature controls

What Are the Best Ways to Maintain Productivity with Pets?

Balancing work and pet ownership requires thoughtful planning to minimize distractions and maintain focus. Here are some ways you can do that

  • Establish a Routine: Create a schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime to meet your pet’s needs while maintaining your work rhythm
  • Designate a Pet Space: Set up a cozy, distraction-free area with bedding, toys, and water where your pet can relax while you work
  • Take Scheduled Breaks: Use your breaks to interact with your pet, helping them expend energy and reducing their need for attention during work hours
  • Use Interactive Toys: Provide stimulating toys or puzzles to keep your pet engaged and mentally active
  • Incorporate Training: Teach your pet simple commands or routines, like staying in their space during specific times, to encourage good behavior
  • Minimize Noise Distractions: Use white noise machines or calming music to create a peaceful environment, especially during calls or focused work
  • Plan for High-Energy Moments: Schedule high-energy activities, like walks or play sessions, early in the day to tire your pet out before long work periods
  • Use Tools for Boundaries: Employ baby gates, pet gates, or crates when you need uninterrupted focus or during critical tasks

Accessories To Create The Perfect Pet-Friendly Environment

Some accessories to help you out in creating a safe and comfortable environment for your pets can include

Is A Pet Friendly Office Worth It?

A well-designed pet friendly home office creates harmony between productivity and pet ownership. It is essential for people who work from home and crave furry companionship. When you think about it, having a remote job and being able to take care of your pets throughout your day is a blessing for any concerned zoophile. We hope that by implementing thoughtful solutions you will be able to develop a dedicated environment that is safe and enjoyable for both you and your pets.

To understand the impact of pets on remote work productivity, head over to our partner blog at Pet, Paws and Feathers.

Head over to our Home Office section to read more about the essentials required for a home office.

To understand why the future of remote work is secure, read our blog in the Remote Work section.

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References

  1. Scholtz, S. E. (2022). Remote-Workers and Their Furry Co-Workers: A multimethod exploration of new avenues for Work-Related Exhaustion and job satisfaction. Social Sciences, 11(11), 501. https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci11110501 ↩︎

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