How to Create a Pet-Friendly Workspace While Working from Home
Working from home has completely changed the way we think about our jobs. We’ve gained flexibility, ditched the commute, and, for many of us, started spending a lot more time with our pets. Whether it’s your dog curled up at your feet or your cat strolling across your desk, pets have quickly become part of the home office setup. But how do we make this work for both our furry friends and ourselves?
In this article, we’ll go over how to set up a pet-friendly workspace that keeps both you and your pet happy — and productive. Plus, we’ll dive into how different dog breeds might handle being part of your workday and what to consider for each one.
Why Pets Make Working from Home Even Better
Let’s be real — pets are great for our mental health. Whether they’re giving us a reason to smile or just being there for a cuddle during a stressful day, they bring a lot of comfort. When you’re working from home, they also help break up the monotony and reduce feelings of loneliness.
In fact, studies show that people who work with pets nearby tend to feel less stressed and more satisfied with their jobs. Who wouldn’t love a little four-legged companion to keep them company through endless Zoom meetings?
That being said, pets can sometimes be a bit distracting. Whether it’s your dog barking during a conference call or your cat deciding your keyboard is their new favorite place to nap, it’s not always smooth sailing. That’s where a smart setup comes into play.
Setting Up a Pet-Friendly Workspace
- Setting Boundaries (For Both of You!) It’s wonderful to have your pet nearby, but let’s face it — they can’t have free rein of your workspace. You need to set some boundaries, so you can both get through the day. Try creating a specific area for your pet to hang out while you work. It could be a comfy pet bed near your desk or even a corner of the room sectioned off with a baby gate.
- Make It Cozy for Your Pet Just like you need a comfy chair and a decent desk setup to be productive, your pet needs their own cozy spot to chill. Depending on your pet’s size and personality, you might want to set up a soft bed or cushion nearby. Dogs especially love having a dedicated space to lounge where they can still keep an eye on you. And remember, different dog breeds have different needs. For example, high-energy breeds like Border Collies will probably need more breaks to run around, while a more laid-back breed like a Bulldog will be happy snoozing nearby most of the day.
- Pet-Proof Your Office Pet-proofing your workspace is a must. This means keeping wires, cords, and any small items out of reach — especially if you’ve got a curious pet who loves to chew. Dogs in particular seem to have a sixth sense for finding the one thing they shouldn’t chew on, like your phone charger or that important stack of papers on your desk. Make sure to store anything valuable or dangerous where your pet can’t reach it. That way, you can focus on work without worrying about your dog snacking on something important!
- Take Play Breaks One of the greatest benefits of working remotely? You can step away for breaks whenever you need to! And what better way to spend those moments than with your pet? Whether it’s a quick game of fetch, a short walk, or a few classic belly rubs, these little breaks are great for both you and your furry companion.
If you’ve got a dog, especially one with high energy like a Retriever or Shepherd, regular walks can help burn off that extra energy. Plus, stepping outside for a bit will clear your head and give your productivity a boost when you return to work.
Wrapping It Up: a Workspace That Works for Both of You
Having a pet-friendly workspace is one of the best parts of working from home. Your pet gives you companionship, stress relief, and a built-in excuse to take regular breaks. But it’s important to create a workspace that’s functional for both of you.
By setting boundaries, making sure your pet has a comfy spot, and working some playtime into your day, you’ll have a setup that boosts productivity and keeps your pet happy. Whether you’re dealing with a high-energy dog or a laid-back one, finding the right balance is key. A well-thought-out pet-friendly workspace will make sure you both enjoy the benefits of remote work without any added stress.