Bringing Pets to Work: The Mental Health Benefits and Considerations

Web Editor

August 5, 2025

The Positive Impact of Workplace Pets on Mental Health

While not common in all workplaces, some companies allow employees to bring their pets to the office due to the numerous mental health benefits associated with having companion animals during work hours.

Erika Villavicencio Ayub, Director of DserOrganizacional for Latin America, explains that pets at work help reduce daily job-related stress by counteracting stress and anxiety production. This is due to the effects pets, like dogs, have on their owners.

Promoting Active Breaks

“Moreover, it promotes active breaks because having a pet allows you to move around, get fresh air, and disconnect, all of which nourish the brain, enhancing concentration and decision-making skills,” she adds.

Socially, there’s also a positive effect as people increasingly feel lonely. According to Gallup’s report, “The State of the Future of Work 2025,” 22% of global employees feel lonely at work. Living pets in the workplace multiplies interactions with colleagues, states Villavicencio.

Positive Effects of Companion Animals on Humans

Ana Cecilia Martínez Jiménez, an expert in mental health and psychosocial risk prevention in organizations, highlights other positive effects of companion animals on humans related to neurotransmitters.

“Pets help us release oxitocin, serotonin, and prolactin—neurotransmitters linked to well-being as they decrease cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress,” she explains.

She further adds that animals like dogs and cats share similarities with humans’ central nervous systems, helping regulate our heart rate, lowering breathing rates, and making it easier for employees to express their feelings.

According to a study by the American Psychiatric Association (APA), 86% of pet owners acknowledge their pets positively impact their mental health, while 69% say their companions help reduce anxiety and stress.

Improved Work Environment and Reduced Absenteeism

Villavicencio asserts that bringing pets to work enhances the work environment, fostering a better balance between life and work.

“There’s much equilibrium between work and personal life because employees are bringing a bit of home with their pets to the office, which contributes to improved mental health—something highly needed today,” she expresses.

Meanwhile, Martínez points out that pet-friendly workplaces can also reduce absenteeism as some employees may feel less motivated to skip work knowing they can bring a pet.

“There’s greater talent retention, especially among younger generations, as they seek these intangible emotional salary benefits that contribute to mental well-being,” she notes.

Not All Companies are Prepared for Pets at Work

According to Cobee, some organizations allow employees to bring pets under certain conditions like hygiene and behavior norms. However, they may prohibit it due to safety concerns, health regulations, employee worries about allergies or fear of animals.

On the other hand, the National Library of Medicine suggests that employers must consider potential impacts on colleagues’ health, safety, and well-being before accepting dogs or cats in the workplace.

“While evidence supports that dogs or cats can provide social support, improve job performance, and increase social interactions, necessary measures must be taken to accommodate pets,” it advises.

Villavicencio emphasizes that not all companies are ideal for accommodating pets, so analyzing possibilities before implementing this benefit is recommended.

“Before taking such a step, various factors must be considered, including space and conditions. Many small businesses lack the ideal space,” she points out.

In this context, Martínez stresses the importance of evaluating potential risks, as some employees might perceive pets as a threat due to allergies or phobias.

“It should be an integral strategy, accompanied by expert advice on accessibility—ensuring adequate spaces for pets and safe coexistence for everyone. The strategy should involve animal health experts, human mental health specialists, and properly conditioned physical spaces to ensure success,” she concludes.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What are the mental health benefits of having pets at work? Pets help reduce job-related stress, promote active breaks, and foster social interactions, contributing to better mental health.
  • How do companion animals affect human neurotransmitters? Pets help release oxitocin, serotonin, and prolactin, which are linked to well-being by decreasing cortisol levels associated with stress.
  • What are the advantages of a pet-friendly workplace? Improved work environment, reduced absenteeism, and greater talent retention are some benefits.
  • Are all companies prepared for pets at work? No, not all companies are ideal for accommodating pets. Factors like space, conditions, and potential risks must be considered.
  • What should employers consider before accepting pets in the workplace? Employers must evaluate potential impacts on colleagues’ health, safety, and well-being, taking necessary measures to accommodate pets.