A new survey has revealed that an increasing number of Americans would like to see pets allowed in the workplace, and it’s not only the employees who are happy to see doggies roaming about their offices; one in five companies already approve of having pets at work.

Thousands of working Americans took part in the national poll conducted by the American Pet Products Manufacturers Association (APPMA). 17% are already allowed to bring pets to their workplace, and the majority of respondents believe that having pets at work relieves stress and makes people happier. Here are some of the results:

·         75 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace makes people happier

·         70 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace reduces stress

·         47 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace leads to a more creative environment

·         37 million believe having pets in the workplace decreases absenteeism

·         41 million believe having pets in the workplace helps co-workers get along better

·         46 million believe having pets in the workplace creates a more productive work environment

·         23 million believe having pets in the workplace decreases smoking in the workplace

·         34 million people who bring their pets to the workplace work longer hours

According to the APPMA, dogs are the most common pet to be taken to work at 76%, while 24% bring a small animal and 15% take their cat.

“This survey indicates that more people are realising the importance of pets in the workplace. Pets are becoming more of a welcome addition and proving to be beneficial to employee well-being and office culture,” said APPMA President Bob Vetere.

Source: APPMA, June 2008