Whilst most commuters stand patiently waiting for buses or trains, the survey by pet food company Barking Heads revealed that 60% of office dogs are chauffeur-driven by their owners every day, with only 9% joining the rat race on public transport. Once in the office, two thirds of office dogs are allowed to roam free on the work floor and almost three quarters of them have their own private space and dog bed.

Gone are the days when taking your dog to work was a privilege enjoyed by only the boss, it seems that companies are becoming more lenient towards allowing members of staff to bring their dogs into the workplace with research showing that having pooches in the office boosts morale and reduces stress levels. 

Further evidence reported by PetMD <http://www.petmd.com/dog/slideshows/care/benefits-of-pets-in-workplace> , also shows that employees are willing to work longer hours and that there is a lower rate of absenteeism in a pet-friendly environment. Whilst many of us love the sound of a pet friendly office, for those who are a little hesitant, the survey did divulge that almost 20% of employers would question hiring someone if they didn’t like the office pup! 

Man’s best friend not only now accompanies us to the hairdresser, to lunch with friends and even on holiday, but it has been revealed that one in four of us would have no qualms taking Fido to a business meeting. However, don’t forget the pooper scooper as just over 25% have reported that their dog has pooed in the work place!

The survey also revealed that our office dogs are becoming more and more involved in office social activities, almost 30% take their pooch on company runs and to their weekly pub sessions, 20% get invited to summer outings such as picnics and one in 20 dogs join in the Christmas party festivities. 

An increasing number of companies including some of the world’s most reputable corporations, including Google, Amazon and Next Model Management, recognise the benefits of dogs in the workplace. Barking Heads has launched the ‘Office Dog Union’ for dogs in the workplace. “The Union intends to represent the collective interests of dogs in negotiations with employers over available amenities, hours and working conditions,” it says. 

Whilst many of those polled in the survey are already abiding by the union rules, it was revealed that almost 10% of office dogs were not given regular comfort breaks during the day. Dog owners are being asked to sign up to the Office Dog Union, to accept the union rules and ensure their dogs are receiving the best possible working conditions. In return, all members will receive an Office Dog Union bandana and regular tips, advice and discounts on pet food. 

To sign up yours or another office dog to the Barking Heads Office Dog Union and to receive your official doggy bandana visit Barking Heads on Facebook – www.facebook.com/NaturalPetFoodforDogsandCatsbyBarkingHeads <http://www.facebook.com/NaturalPetFoodforDogsandCatsbyBarkingHeads.