Their benefits reinforce NAVC’s values of trust, flexibility, and inclusion … and are one of the top draws for working there.
By Pam Foster, PetFriendlyOffice.com
“Having our dogs share the space helps everyone open up and creates closer personal connections between employees. So many co-workers whom I don’t interact with every day drop by to say ‘hi’ to Charlie in the morning, starting conversations and forging relationships that strengthen the organizational culture.”
Just like this NAVC staff member pictured here …
I experienced my own pet-friendly office experiences when I worked for NAVC (North American Veterinary Community), a global organization supporting veterinary professionals with insights, training, and opportunities to provide better animal care.
At the NAVC headquarters, Louie my wonderpup Westie became an office ‘regular” among other furry pals. This made it possible for me to spend entire days in the office without having to get back to Louie at home.
Now if your company is not in the pet industry, you’re probably thinking, of course NAVC offers a pet-friendly workplace and other benefits. Pets are what they’re all about!
True, but read on.
No matter what your company is or does … pet-related employee benefits can be a much-appreciate perk that attracts and retains employees.
I had the pleasure of connecting with Kimberly Chatfield, NAVC Director of Human Resources. She’s been with the organization for more than 9 years and has met dozens of office pets. 😊
Here, she brings her good humor and practical insights to give you a glimpse on the pet-related benefits she manages.
Can you describe what you offer to employees regarding pet-related benefits?
Kimberly: NAVC offers its employees several pet-related benefits. This includes encouraging employees to bring their furry family members to the office (you should see our treat supply!) as well as the opportunity to purchase pet insurance as part of our wellness program.
We also make a point to include our pet co-workers in all our team activities such as holiday parties and lunches.
Holiday parties aren’t just for the human staff at NAVC.
And of course, as any good office would, we celebrate their birthdays with special treats and decorations.
While having fun and celebrating is important, giving back is too. Each year, our teams in Orlando and Gainesville participate in the World’s Largest Pet Walk, which raises money for the Pet Partners Animal Therapy program.
How did you know what employees would want among the many pet-related benefits out there?
Kimberly: NAVC is committed to supporting the veterinary healthcare community and having our furry friends in the office everyday feels like a natural fit. It’s a good reminder of why we do what we do.
Determining which pet-related benefits are a good fit came pretty easily. In fact, it’s always been part of NAVC’s culture in some way.
When did NAVC decide to offer these benefits?
Kimberly: Pets are central to our mission at NAVC and so pet-related benefits have always been something we offer employees.
How did you go about setting up the different benefits?
Kimberly: The NAVC leadership team collaborated to create a pet-friendly policy and outline the types of benefits to offer. We also worked closely with our insurance provider to select a plan that employees could purchase to help with pet-related healthcare costs.
How were/are they promoted to employees and job candidates?
Kimberly: NAVC’s pet-related benefits are included in every job description, posting, and offer letter given to candidates. It is also discussed during the interview process. We find it’s one of the top draws to working at NAVC.
What have been your biggest advantages as a result?
Kimberly: Our pet-related benefits are a small perk with a BIG cultural impact. They reinforce NAVC’s values of trust, flexibility, and inclusion. Potential employees light up when we mention our pet-friendly workplace.
Being a pet-friendly workplace directly supports our team’s mental well-being. Seeing our furry friends bouncing around the office, coming in for a pet or a treat is an excellent stress reliever for everyone.
You can feel the morale lift as soon as one of our pets walks into the room. They are the ultimate conversation starter and a great connector between teams who may not always interact or work together.
Here are just a few quotes from the NAVC team supporting the main benefits of pets in the office:
“Being able to bring my dog to the office is a huge benefit for both of us. I get the peace of mind knowing she isn’t home by herself and she gets to socialize. Plus, it’s a great ice breaker and tension reliever for everyone in the office. They give the humans something to connect about and serve as a reminder to get a fresh air break outside every once in a while.” – Laura C.S. Walker, Chief Media & Sales Officer
“The best part of working in a pet-friendly office is the human connection. Having our dogs share the space helps everyone open up and creates closer personal connections between employees. So many co-workers whom I don’t interact with every day drop by to say ‘hi’ to Charlie in the morning, starting conversations and forging relationships that strengthen the organizational culture.” – Andy Zunz, Vice President of Media Strategy
“Many humans now consider their pets as family — and while you don’t normally want to bring your kids or partner to work, a dog is totally different! They bring so much joy to not only the owner’s workday but also coworkers’ daily lives. It provides enrichment and socialization for the pet and camaraderie and a positive work environment for employees. Pet-friendly offices are truly one of the best things about working at the NAVC!” – Marissa Delamarter, Managing Editor
“Being able to include Ford in my workday and at the office makes life easier for both of us. I don’t worry about leaving late and him being home alone and he gets to make new and visit with old friends at the office, both human and canine.” – Shellie Sullivan, Customer Service Manager
How about any hurdles or problems related to these benefits (if any)?
Kimberly: Do longing stares through office windows during meetings count?
We haven’t faced any hurdles or issues with our pet-friendly policy. Employees are big advocates of having pets as part of our culture and work environment.
What’s been the biggest happy surprise about offering these benefits?
Kimberly: Our office pets connect teams who may not otherwise interact with one another. This helps foster collaboration and break down silos. Our teams also bond over the funny and cute antics of our pet co-workers. Say the name Kenny to anyone at NAVC and they will have a story, photo, or memory to share.
The other surprising thing about having our pets in the office is that it naturally encourages breaks, whether that’s to go outside for fresh air or stop by the kitchen to grab a treat (for both the human and the pet!).
So many lovely pets in the office! This collage includes a few furry faces.
Would you recommend that other businesses offer pet-related benefits?
Kimberly: We would strongly recommend offering pet-related benefits.
Of course, this may look different for everyone. Not all office environments may be appropriate for pets but there are plenty of options.
Offering pet insurance, participating in pet-related charities, hosting adoption events with local shelters, or bringing in therapy animals from time-to-time are all great alternatives.
PetFriendlyOffice.com note: Many thanks to Kimberly and the NAVC team for sharing their experiences and pet photos!
About NAVC
NAVC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and a
dvancing veterinary professionals worldwide. It provides continuing education, resources, and a large annual conference called VMX, formerly known as the North American Veterinary Conference. The NAVC aims to improve animal care through training, networking, publications, and advocacy for the veterinary community.
About PetFriendlyOffice.com
If you’re an HR Manager or business owner, you’ll appreciate having “All the Things to Make Pet-Related Benefits Easy” in one place. With my Pet-Friendly Office DIY System (checklists, templates, policy guidance, and more), you can set up everything yourself. Or let me handle most of it for you through my Pet-Friendly Office CONCIERGE SYSTEM. Can’t allow pets in the office? I can help you choose other popular benefits for your company. Ultimately, you’ll be the hero who leads a pet-friendly culture, increasing employee retention and attracting top talent.
Let’s make quick work of your mission. Start with this FREE resource: HR SURVIVAL GUIDE to Pet-Related Benefits — Pam Foster, your Chief Pet-Friendly Officer
Want your company’s pet-friendly story to be featured in a PetFriendlyOffice.com article? Contact me
PetFriendlyOffice.com note: Many thanks to Kimberly and the NAVC team for sharing their experiences and pet photos!
About NAVC
NAVC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and advancing veterinary professionals worldwide. It provides continuing education, resources, and a large annual conference called VMX, formerly known as the North American Veterinary Conference. The NAVC aims to improve animal care through training, networking, publications, and advocacy for the veterinary community.