National Pet Day: Not just Ratan Tata – These leaders welcome pets at work too

Each year, 11th April marks National Pet Day – a celebration of the furry companions who bring joy, comfort, and emotional support into our lives. But for some organisations, pets are not just for the home – they are welcome at the workplace too. While the late Ratan Tata, India’s beloved industrialist and philanthropist, was famously known for his deep love of dogs and lifelong advocacy for animal welfare, he was not alone in recognising the value pets bring to people’s lives – including their professional ones.

Tata, who passed away recently, had a long-standing commitment to the welfare of stray animals, especially dogs. At the Tata Group headquarters in Mumbai, he ensured that stray dogs had shelter, food, and medical care. His Instagram posts frequently featured rescued pups and heartfelt appeals for animal adoption. His empathy and compassion extended not only to business practices but also to all living beings.

A quiet but meaningful trend is gaining traction across India Inc. and globally: the rise of pet-friendly workplaces. From tech start-ups to large enterprises, more leaders are reimagining the office environment as one where pets can enhance wellbeing, foster creativity, and even strengthen team bonds. The benefits of this approach go far beyond aesthetics – they are grounded in science, psychology, and evolving workplace values.

The idea of bringing pets to work might once have sounded unconventional. But today, companies such as Amazon, Google, Airbnb, Salesforce, and Etsy have long set a global precedent by allowing dogs and other pets into the workplace. In India, too, the tide is turning. Organisations like InMobi, Chaayos, and Urban Company are among a growing number embracing pet-friendly policies.

The rationale is backed by research. Studies show that pets help reduce stress, increase job satisfaction, and even encourage collaboration. A 2012 study published in the International Journal of Workplace Health Management found that employees who brought their dogs to work reported significantly lower stress levels compared to those who did not. Pets help create a more relaxed atmosphere and often act as social glue among employees.

Indian leaders embracing the change

Beyond Ratan Tata, several business leaders in India have demonstrated that pets and productivity can coexist:

• Naveen Tewari, CEO of InMobi: Tewari’s company allows pets at its Bengaluru office, complete with a designated pet-friendly zone. Employees are encouraged to bring their furry companions, which contributes to a relaxed and vibrant culture.

• Nitin Saluja, Founder of Chaayos: At Chaayos, pets are a welcome addition to the corporate office. Saluja believes pets help employees feel more at home and bring positive energy into the workplace.

• Abhiraj Bhal, Co-founder of Urban Company: Urban Company has also adopted a pet-friendly policy. According to Bhal, allowing pets at work fosters a more compassionate and employee-friendly culture.

These leaders represent a growing shift in mindset – one where wellbeing, both physical and emotional, is seen as central to business success.

Why pets make workplaces better

Bringing pets to work is not just about making the office Instagram-worthy. It comes with tangible benefits:

1. Reduced stress levels: Petting a dog or cat has been shown to release oxytocin, a hormone associated with bonding and stress relief.

2. Higher employee morale: Animals can create a more cheerful and supportive environment, improving job satisfaction.

3. Improved work-life balance: Employees do not have to worry about leaving their pets at home or arranging pet care.

4. Increased team collaboration: Pets often act as conversation starters, bringing people together who might not otherwise interact.

Of course, a pet-friendly policy is not without its challenges:

• Allergies and phobias: Not all employees are comfortable around animals. Organisations must consider these sensitivities.

• Cleanliness: Pets can create mess or require special care. Hygiene protocols are essential.

• Disruptions: Barking dogs or excitable animals can cause distractions. Clear behavioural expectations should be established.

To make it work, businesses can set ground rules, designate pet zones, require vaccinations, and adopt a feedback-based approach to evaluate the policy’s impact.

Setting up for success

For those considering a pet-friendly office, here are a few practical tips:

• Start with a pilot: Trial the policy with a small group before scaling up.

• Create pet zones: Designate specific areas for pets to reduce disruption.

• Maintain a pet code of conduct: Clearly outline the behaviour expected from pets and their owners.

• Ensure health and safety compliance: Request up-to-date vaccination records and regular health check-ups.

• Encourage feedback: Maintain open communication so policies can be adjusted as needed.

The increasing acceptance of pets at work is part of a broader shift in how we think about the employee experience. It is no longer just about perks – it is about creating a holistic environment that prioritises wellness, trust, and belonging.

Pet-friendly offices are not suitable for every organisation, but they do reflect a progressive mindset – one that values empathy, flexibility, and the emotional needs of employees. Leaders like the late Ratan Tata, Naveen Tewari, and others are setting an example, showing that a more compassionate workplace does not come at the cost of productivity – it can, in fact, enhance it.