What is the Pet Friendly Workplace™ Certification?

This certification was created in 2024 to celebrate organizations who are making pets part of their culture. But more than just being pet friendly, the certification recognizes and acknowledges that pet-safe and employee-inclusive practices are implemented and updated regularly.

Who is behind the Pet Friendly Workplace™ Certification?

Vetster, a global pet health platform working with +7000 veterinary professionals created the certification to advocate for pets in the workplace and ensure that companies approach their initiatives in safe, healthy, and innovative ways.

What if my company does not have an office, or one where pets are not allowed?

No problem! While some companies have pets at the office, some are unable due to their lease or are working remotely. There are many things you can do to incorporate pets into your overall approach including pet perks programs, health benefits, and flex work for walking dogs!

Do I need to share my entire employee handbook?

Not at all. Please share your policies and/or sections related to pets and the benefits you provide to your employees. Your information will not be shared and is for verification purposes only.

How can my company apply for certification?

Complete the online application form, providing details about your pet-friendly policies and practices.

What are the criteria for certification?

Criteria include having clear pet policies, providing pet-friendly facilities, and promoting a pet-friendly culture.

How long does the certification process take?

The review process typically takes 4-6 weeks from the submission of a complete application.

Is there a fee for certification?

No. In its inaugural year, the certification process is open to any company and is currently fee-free.

How long is the certification valid?

Certification is valid for one year, after which companies can apply for renewal.

How can certified companies showcase their status?

Certified companies receive a badge to display on their website and marketing materials, indicating their commitment to a pet-friendly workplace.

Get Pet Friendly Workplace™ Certified

Name: Pets at Work: How are Americans' four-legged friends included in their 9-5?
Uploaded: 2024-04-04T10:00:00-05:00
Duration: P58S
Channel: Vetster
Description: Pets at Work: How are Americans' four-legged friends included in their 9-5?

Make a positive impact on your workplace culture & improve employee satisfaction.

Get certified

Join Pet Friendly Workplace™ leaders making a difference for their employees

Pet-friendly workplaces have a competitive advantage

Pets play a crucial role in your employees' lives; which is why certifying as a pet-friendly workplace has so many advantages.

Get certified

Attract & retain top talent

A pet-friendly workplace boosts retention and makes your company more attractive to potential employees.

Enhance your company image

Pet-friendly employers are seen as progressive, compassionate, and employee-centric.

Improve employee wellness

Strengthen employee satisfaction and well-being by reducing stress, encouraging physical activity, and improving overall wellness.

Foster a positive work environment

A pet-friendly workplace culture encourages positive employee relationships and creates a relaxed, enjoyable environment.

Gain a competitive advantage

Offering unique benefits like pet-friendly policies can give your company a competitive edge in attracting top talent.

Support diversity & inclusion

Recognizing and accommodating the needs of pet owners can be part of a broader diversity and inclusion strategy.

Hear what other Pet Friendly Workplace™ leaders have to say

At TribalScale, our culture embraces diversity, fosters inclusivity, and champions flexibility in all aspects of our remote-first environment. Recognizing that our employees’ pets are integral parts of their lives, we proudly extend our cultural ethos to include them. Pets aren’t just companions; they’re valued members of our extended TribalScale family. By nurturing a pet-inclusive culture, we not only enhance the well-being of our employees but also strengthen the fabric of our global community, because when every member feels seen, heard, and supported, we all thrive together.

Nicola Watson

HR Manager

Creating a pet-friendly office can be very rewarding, benefiting the mental health and morale of both employees and their furry friends. Spot’s office culture revolves around many puppy playdates. By establishing clear policies and guidelines, I encourage other businesses to create a happy and productive work environment that embraces the presence of pets.

Scott Taylor

President

Why Pets are Good for Your Business

Becoming a Pet Friendly Workplace™ is easy

A Pet Friendly Workplace™ considers the needs of their employees and their pets across the physical and virtual spaces we occupy while at work, at home and at play.

Get certified

Certified companies demonstrate their thoughtful approach to four key areas of consideration:

Pet-friendly workplace policies

Pet policies developed and incorporated into employee handbook
Flex work culture to support animal care

Pet-friendly culture

Foster pet-friendly environments
Communications to connect pet owners
Company events and community work

Dog-friendly offices

Health and safety protocols
Documented onboarding programs
Employee training

Pet-friendly... Benefits!

Pet-inclusive rewards and perks
Pet health solutions
Pet health spending accounts

FAQ

: This certification was created in 2024 to celebrate organizations who are making pets part of their culture. But more than just being pet friendly, the certification recognizes and acknowledges that pet-safe and employee-inclusive practices are implemented and updated regularly.

: Vetster, a global pet health platform working with +7000 veterinary professionals created the certification to advocate for pets in the workplace and ensure that companies approach their initiatives in safe, healthy, and innovative ways.

: No problem! While some companies have pets at the office, some are unable due to their lease or are working remotely. There are many things you can do to incorporate pets into your overall approach including pet perks programs, health benefits, and flex work for walking dogs!

: Not at all. Please share your policies and/or sections related to pets and the benefits you provide to your employees. Your information will not be shared and is for verification purposes only.

: Complete the online application form, providing details about your pet-friendly policies and practices.

: Criteria include having clear pet policies, providing pet-friendly facilities, and promoting a pet-friendly culture.

: The review process typically takes 4-6 weeks from the submission of a complete application.

: No. In its inaugural year, the certification process is open to any company and is currently fee-free.

: Certification is valid for one year, after which companies can apply for renewal.

: Certified companies receive a badge to display on their website and marketing materials, indicating their commitment to a pet-friendly workplace.

Resources

Man holding a cat in workplace environment

Tips for creating a pet-friendly workplace

Effectively managing employee programs can be challenging, but well worth the effort.

Dog laying on the office floor between two chairs

Is your office pet-friendly?

Pets in the office can enhance morale, boost productivity, lower stress, and encourage camaraderie amongst your team.

Introducing pets to the office

According to a recent poll, 48% of employees agree having their pets around has increased their work productivity.

Ready to get Pet Friendly Workplace™ Certified?

Stand out from the crowd & attract top talent.

Get certified