Post-pandemic offices are likely to have more pets, Banfield finds

Many employers say they’ll welcome pets at the office as people return to work, according to a recent survey by Banfield.

More than half of the pet owners in the survey said they’ll be most happy returning to their workplace if they can bring their pets with them. Sixty-three percent said increased time at home has made them think more about how their pets can fit into their workday post-pandemic.

Half of the C-suite executives surveyed said they’re planning to allow pets in the workplace when people return, and 59% said they’ll allow more flexibility for workers wanting to stay remote with their pets.

Of pet owners who want to bring their pets to the office, the survey found:

• 38% said they’re worried their pet will experience separation anxiety.
• 37% want the companionship of their pet at work.
• 28% think their pets can help keep them calm during stressful workdays.
• 23% said they’ll be more productive with their pet accompanying them to work.