Company leaders continue to explore the best ways to conduct in-person and hybrid work, working to make the office as inviting as possible while leveraging in-office time for collaborative activities.

As this continues to be an ongoing effort, it could be an opportune time to explore out-of-the-box ideas, such as your office pet policy.

Welcoming pets in to the office can have real benefits.

Studies in diverse settings—traditional offices but also universities, prisons, hospitals and courthouses—demonstrate that the presence of animals:

• Increases employee commitment
• Increases career satisfaction
• Reduces turnover intentions
• Seen as evidence that organizations prioritize employee well-being

There certainly can be a lot to be said on the positive side for including the furry friends, but what possible issues could arise from allowing rover into the office?

Here are some of the challenges:

• Can be viewed as un-professional
• Can be viewed and unsanitary
• Employees could have allergies
• Employees or clients may have past phobias/fears of animals
• Can have issues with aggressive animals or animals not getting along

As organizations experiment with hybrid work arrangements or a gradual return to the office, the time is ripe to implement a successful pet policy. However, no matter what you choose as the right fit for your company, it can’t hurt to make sure you’re aware of both sides to make a better informed decision.