One in five workplaces allow pets in the office

According to new research, one-fifth of British workplaces now allow employees to bring pets into the office, yet a similar proportion (22 percent) of workers have complained about the furry companions.

The survey by online job board, CV-Library, found that when it comes to the personal effect of animals in the workplace, there is clear evidence of a “gender pet gap”.

According to the data nearly half (46 percent) of women believe that having a pet at work eases stress and helps relaxation, compared to 29 percent of men.

The result of the “gender pet gap” led to a shocking 12 percent of British men admitting to complaining about pets at work, in stark contrast to virtually no female complaints (1 percent).

In the eternal battle between cats and dogs, canines rule the workplace – making up 87 percent of all “professional” pets. Cats are clearly an unpopular option at work with only 5 percent admitting to having a feline in the workplace, and rabbits coming in third with 2 percent.

Across the country, London, with its trendy, mutt-ropolitan co-working spaces, leads pet allowance in the office with 27 percent of workers admitting to having them in the office.

The South East (24 percent), Wales (22 percent) and Northern Ireland (22 percent follow close behind. The East Midlands and the North East are the keenest to keep pets at home, with 91 percent and 87 percent of workplaces saying no.

Lee Biggins, founder and managing director of CV-Library comments: “With one in two households owning a pet in the UK, it’s clear to see the attraction and convenience of bringing them with you to work.”

“Our new research shines a light on the latest HR trend that many businesses are implementing to stand out from the crowd and attract the very best recruits. It seems to be working, with women being more favourable to the trend. As long as clear protocols are in place for pet ownership, it is set to have a positive benefit to employees and those around them.”