You found our list of the best Bring Your Pet to Work Day ideas.
Bring Your Pet to Work Day ideas are fun activities for employees to do when they bring their furry friends to the office. For example, conducting a pet adoption event, hosting a dress-up contest, or setting up cuddle corners. The purpose of these ideas is to create a relaxed environment in the office. These exercises also boost morale and promote interaction via a shared love for pets. These ideas are also known as “animal-friendly activities” and “ways of celebrating Bring Your Pet to Work Day.”
These ideas are similar to Bring Your Dog to Work Day ideas, office pets, and ways to have fun at work with employees.
This list includes:
- animal-friendly activities
- benefits of bringing pets to work
- Bring Your Pet to Work Day activities
- ways of celebrating Bring Your Pet to Work Day
- company pet-focused events
So, here is the list!
List of Bring Your Pet to Work Day ideas
From pet parades to educational workshops, here is a list of unique ideas for bringing your pets to work.
1. Pet Adoption Event
Hosting a pet adoption event is a great idea for Bring Your Pet to Work Day. Employees can bring their pets to the office and support a good cause. To organize a successful event, contact local shelters to coordinate logistics. Shelters can bring adoptable pets to the office for workers to meet. Hosting this activity on Bring Your Pet to Work Day means employees’ pets can meet adoptable furry friends. Colleagues can also bond over their shared love for animals. Hosting a pet adoption event helps animals find loving homes.
2. Pet Parades
Pet parades are a fun and engaging activity for bringing your furry friends to work. Organizing a pet parade allows coworkers to showcase their pets. To host a successful parade, participants dress up their pets in creative costumes. You can set up a runway for pets to walk down and model. Colleagues can vote for their favorite outfits and give a prize to the winner! This activity promotes camaraderie and adds a cute contest to the workday.
Want some free team building tools?
$49 value (100% free)
- 100+ fully tested icebreaker questions
- 24+ themed Bingo generators
- 5+ PDFs (including the 8% Rule)
- 2024 team building calendar
- and more...
Enter your email for instant access
3. Photo Contest
A photo contest is one of the best Bring Your Pet to Work Day activities! Employees can capture adorable and funny moments with their pets. To organize a successful photo contest, create clear guidelines. For instance, set submission deadlines and photo categories. Be sure to encourage participants to use cute props and outfits. Consider involving external judges or allowing employees to vote for their favorite photos. You can even post photos on your company’s social media pages to let customers vote for their favorites! Winners can earn fun prizes like a pet care basket. This contest can foster a positive work environment and create lasting memories.
Similarly, here are photo scavenger hunt ideas.
4. Pet Toys
Adding pet toys to your office on Bring Your Pet to Work Day is a fantastic idea. Toys can combat boredom, reduce stress, and provide mental stimulation for pets. Interactive toys that involve problem-solving or treat-dispensing can keep pets engaged. Playing with toys can also strengthen the bond between pets and their owners. Be sure to have a variety of toys available to cater to different pets’ needs. For dogs, consider chew toys, interactive puzzles, or rubber balls. Cats may enjoy scratching posts, feather wands, or laser pointers. Small animals like hamsters could benefit from tunnels or puzzle feeders. You can supervise your pet while they play. Providing pet toys on this special day contributes to a positive work environment.
Here are more swag bag ideas for employees.
5. Treat Stations
Treat stations are a fantastic addition to company pet-focused events. These areas provide a variety of snacks and goodies for both pets and their owners to enjoy. Treat stations ensure that you can reward pets with delicious snacks. Colleagues can visit the station at their own convenience. Pets could earn treats by performing tricks and behaving well. Plus, you can give goodies to your colleagues’ pets to get to know them!
6. Pet Training Session
A pet training session can be a great activity for this day. Training provides a chance for colleagues to bond with their pets and coworkers. For this session, find a training professional to come into the office. This pro can identify behaviors that employees want to train. For instance, teams can train commands like sit and stay. More advanced pets can learn skills like leave it or sit and stay. Positive reinforcement techniques like treats and praise encourage good behavior. This exercise helps workers bond with their animals and one another.
7. Pet-friendly Decor
Pet-friendly decor is a great way to create a welcoming and comfortable environment. Decor can help reduce stress and increase productivity. One idea is to choose durable and easy-to-clean materials to cover furniture and flooring. Another option is to incorporate designated pet areas within the office space. Consider setting up cozy pet beds or blankets in designated corners of the workplace. Pets can relax comfortably in these areas. You can also include small playpens with chew toys or scratching posts.
Adding natural elements such as plants can also enhance the ambiance of the workspace while benefiting both humans and pets. Plants improve both air quality and visual appeal. Just make sure to choose non-toxic plants that are safe for pets in case they decide to take a nibble. When it comes to colors, opt for calming hues like blues and greens. These colors reduce stress levels in both humans and animals. Overall, these decor choices can make the environment more welcoming.
8. Play Zones
Play Zones in the office can be a great addition to the workplace when celebrating Bring Your Pet to Work Day. These designated areas provide a space for pets and their owners to interact. Providing Play Zones can promote employee well-being by reducing stress levels. In these areas, include toys, treats, and pet beds. When setting up this section, consider putting it away from desks to avoid distracting workers. By putting Play Zones in the office, employers can create a pet-friendly workplace that enhances work-life balance.
9. Pet Agility Course
A pet agility course can be a fantastic way to interact with your animals. Pets and owners can engage in a fun and interactive activity together. Courses can contain obstacles like tunnels, ramps, hurdles, and weave poles. Even if pets have never competed in an agility course, they will have fun trying out the obstacles! This activity promotes physical exercise for both pets and owners. In addition, pets can burn off extra energy. Plus, this activity encourages bonds between colleagues and their pets. If you want to make the activity more competitive, then you can give awards for the best times!
10. Best Behavior Award
The Best Behavior Award recognizes the pets who are the best office animals throughout the day. This reward encourages pet owners to train their furry friends. Plus, awards promote a positive and well-behaved environment in the workplace. To put the Best Behavior Award in place, create a simple nomination process. Employees can submit pet’s names along with a brief description of why they believe this animal deserves recognition. A panel of judges can then assess the nominations and select the winner at the end of the day. By acknowledging pets that exhibit good behavior, you encourage folks to be mindful of their pet’s actions. This exercise also sets a precedent for future Bring Your Pet to Work Days.
11. Lunch Break Walks
Lunch Break Walks are the simplest animal-friendly activities for when pets are in the office. Walks provide an opportunity for you and your furry friend to get some exercise and fresh air. In addition, these exercises offer a mental break from work-related stress. You can put a leash or harness onto your pet, grab some waste bags, and head out for a stroll around the block. Walking together can strengthen the bond between you and your pet. Plus, walks are a chance to socialize with other colleagues and their pets.
12. Pet Supplies Drive
A Pet Supplies Drive is a fantastic idea for Bring Your Pet to Work Day! Supply drives provide an opportunity to give back to animals in need. To organize a pet supplies drive, encourage colleagues to donate items. Examples include pet food, toys, bedding, and leashes. You can bring these donations to your local animal shelter. Drives are a meaningful way to support furry friends while fostering a sense of community.
Here are more charity team building ideas.
13. Educational Workshop
Adding an educational workshop to your Bring Your Pet to Work Day is a great idea. Employees can learn about responsible pet ownership and understand animal behavior better. The workshop can cover topics like basic pet care, training tips, and pet first aid. Consider inviting a professional pet trainer or veterinarian to share practical advice. Lessons could also cover behavioral challenges and positive interactions. This workshop gives employees the knowledge and tools to care for their pets at home and work.
Here are more workshop ideas.
14. Pet Care Kits
Pet Care Kits are a wonderful gift for your pet-owning friends. These kits contain essential items like bowls, toys, treats, waste bags, and grooming supplies. Such gifts ensure the well-being of pets at the workplace. Pet Care Kits also provide supplies, prevent disruptions, and ensure animals are comfortable. Kits can also include a guide on office pet care etiquette. You can even order branded company merch for the pets!
15. Art Corner
An Art Corner is a great idea for Bring Your Pet to Work Day. Pets and employees get to be creative while spending time together. To make this station, make a comfortable space filled with pet-friendly art supplies.
One example of an animal art activity is a lick painting. Workers can put paint on a canvas and put the canvas into a plastic bag. Next, folks will put peanut butter on top of the bag. Pets will lick the peanut butter, which will scoot the paint around on the canvas. Finally, set the painting out to dry and display your art!
These exercises promote well-being, create a positive work environment, and help folks bond with their pets.
16. Cuddle Corners
Cuddle Corners offer employees and their pets a comfy spot to relax and bond. These soothing environments reduce stress and promote well-being. When setting up this space, choose a quiet corner and fill it with soft pillows, blankets, and toys. You can add calming scents or gentle music to enhance the ambiance.
Cuddle Corners foster positive emotions among your team. Consider setting time limits or rotation schedules to avoid overcrowding.
17. Yoga or Meditation Session
A yoga or meditation session can be a great way to spend time with pets at the office. Taking a break from work for these practices can help reduce stress and promote well-being. During a yoga session, you can flow through various poses. Your pet can join in by stretching or simply being present in the calming atmosphere. Meditation sessions quiet the mind, improve focus, and create a peaceful environment. Animals can meditate with you by sitting next to you or on your lap. These sessions can improve the experience and create a positive atmosphere.
18. Pet Grooming Station
Setting up pet grooming stations at work is a great idea for Bring Your Pet to Work Day. These stations provide a designated area with brushes, combs, and other grooming tools. These resources make it easy for employees to pamper their pets during the workday. Employees can take short breaks to groom their pets. This activity enhances the well-being and happiness of their furry companions. With a pet grooming station, it becomes easier for pet owners to manage their pets’ hygiene.
Benefits of bringing pets to work
Bringing pets to the workplace can offer several benefits. Bring Your Pet to Work Day contributes to a positive and enjoyable work environment.
Here are some advantages:
- Reduced Stress: Interacting with pets reduces stress levels. Having animals in the workplace can create a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere for employees.
- Improved Mood: The presence of pets can elevate mood and increase feelings of happiness. Employees often enjoy the companionship and joy that pets bring to the workplace.
- Enhanced Productivity: Spending a few moments with a pet can provide a mental break, reducing fatigue and increasing overall productivity. Having animals at the office can also encourage short breaks, which are important for maintaining focus.
- Increased Social Interaction: Pets can serve as natural conversation starters, promoting social interactions among employees. These talks can improve team dynamics and foster a sense of community.
- More Physical Activity: Walking dogs or playing with pets during breaks can encourage employees to engage in physical activity. Regular exercise is beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.
- Boosted Morale: The presence of pets in the workplace can create a positive and enjoyable atmosphere, boosting overall morale. Employees may look forward to coming to work in a pet-friendly environment.
- Reduced Feelings of Isolation: For employees who may feel isolated or stressed, pets can provide comfort and a sense of connection. This benefit is particularly helpful for individuals working long hours.
- Attraction and Retention of Talent: Offering a pet-friendly workplace can be an attractive perk for potential employees and retain existing talent. Allowing pets at work showcases a supportive and forward-thinking company culture.
- Improved Work-Life Balance: Letting employees bring their pets to work can improve work-life balance. Pet owners may appreciate the convenience of having their furry friends nearby.
- Better Health Benefits: Interacting with pets has various health benefits, including lower blood pressure and reduced heart rate. These physical health advantages can positively impact overall well-being.
- Improved Company Culture: A pet-friendly workplace often has a positive and inclusive company culture. This workplace can create a sense of shared responsibility and care among employees.
While the benefits of having pets in the workplace are numerous, it is important to establish clear guidelines and policies. This step ensures the well-being and comfort of all employees and their pets.
Final Thoughts
Bringing four-legged friends into the workspace creates a positive atmosphere. Bring Your Pet to Work Day makes employees feel more comfortable and fosters camaraderie. Additionally, including pets in office spaces often leads to unexpected benefits. For instance, animals may increase employee productivity and engagement. Thus, these Bring Your Pet to Work Day ideas can strengthen the work culture.
Next, check out our posts on RTO office perks, animals that work well together, and quick office games for work.
Michael Alexis