Also known as assistance dogs, service dogs are specially trained animals to support people with disabilities. According to the American Kennel Club, service dogs help their handlers with tasks like switching on a light, calming down stress, and reminding them to take medication.
It has been found that nearly 86 million people across the US live with some form of disability. However, not even 1% of this population owns a service dog. The main cause for this is misinformation or a lack of any. Those who do own one would like to bring their furry pal to work, particularly for the companionship aspect.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) considers service animals to be a reasonable accommodation which employers must account for. This means if your workplace is inclusive enough to recruit people with special needs, they must also have the freedom to bring their service dogs.
We understand that this will accompany certain changes that must be dealt with. In this article, we will discuss effective tips for employers to welcome special employees along with their service animals.
Developing a Clear Policy
Without a clear workplace policy on bringing along a service dog, employees will have no boundaries to stay safe. The policy must outline the expectations and rules all employees with service dogs must follow.
For instance – it can be made clear that a service dog will be allowed if the employee performs their professional duties properly using the animal’s help. Also, clarify that the animal will have to be removed if it showcases disruptive behaviors that may endanger others.
Employers must consider whether or not they are willing to allow certain breeds within the company premises. Golden and Labrador Retrievers are generally friendly and social.
They can be a pleasant addition to the workplace, keeping everyone’s spirits up. German Shepherds, on the other hand, exhibit unpredictable behaviors that could be rooted in their early days of life.
Employers can choose to eliminate certain service dog breeds or ask the handler about the animal’s upbringing. If they suspect the level of training or the pooch is currently undergoing training, discretion is advised.
Have the handler join after the training process is over and proven or politely decline. Before inviting service dogs into the company, a no-frills policy for everyone to follow must be developed.
Being Mindful of Allergies
We do recognize that certain employees may be afraid of dogs or they may be uncomfortable around pets. What is interesting is that the ADA does not consider service dogs to be pets, but working animals. Even if their task extends to offering emotional support, these canines serve a functional purpose in their owners’ lives.
Moreover, fear or even allergies to dogs are not enough reasons for an employer to deny service dogs under the ADA. On the other hand, it can be difficult for employees with pet flake allergies to adjust. Can there be a middle ground?
Yes, employers can designate specific areas for service dogs. Simultaneously, there may be certain zones where these pooches are not allowed to go. In the latter, employers can have employees work together who have allergies or simply do not enjoy being around dogs.
Making Provisions for Food and Clean-Ups
Within the service animals workplace policy, you can and should mention that the employee must carry food, treats, and other supplies. Plus, they should be responsible for cleaning up after their pooch. However, the spirit of inclusivity involves incorporating some extra provisions.
In other words, employers can set up a little play area for pooches that houses dog treats and chew toys. If seen fit, a vet can be outsourced for emergencies in case a service dog falls ill or gets injured. Another aspect to take care of is proper hygiene and sanitation.
By all means, a responsible work culture must be encouraged where employees clean up after their service dogs. However, it’s best to take charge in ways that are possible. Let’s take the example of Las Vegas, which was ranked among the most pet-friendly cities in the US.
A recent permit has allowed the residents of Sin City to own up to six dogs or cats per household. Though not pets, these may include service animals. Given the freedom to own animals and their proliferation, residents rely on regular pet waste removal and sanitation services.
Even commercial establishments can do the same. This means companies in the area can utilize a Vegas dog poop pickup service to keep premises clean and safe. Even after the initial cleanup, it is important to sanitize the area and make it odor-free. If not, it will become smelly and hazardous over time.
According to Scoop Soldiers, animal waste contains harmful microbes that can transfer to humans. Even traces or a single missed pile can become a disaster quickly. By hiring professionals for regular cleanup and sanitation services, it’s possible to keep employees safe.
Minimizing Distractions
There is nothing wrong with wanting to create a more diverse and inclusive workplace. Employers must discuss a change in workplace culture with existing employees first. This will bring everyone on the same page and they will know what to expect when service animals enter the doors.
Naturally, distractions will follow. No matter the fact that the pooch will be performing its duties, employees may get distracted due to its cuteness. They may indulge in extra breaks or extended ones to pet and cuddle with the fur baby.
It is the employer’s responsibility to eliminate distractions as much as possible. The designated zone approach may work where those with service animals are assigned a separate area. If that seems too isolating, you can allow free time every day for all employees to interact with service dogs.
It can be as little as 30 minutes of play and relaxation time. Such a change in the working environment may boost levels of productivity. After all, fur pals are known to reduce stress and improve moods.
Overall, it is a splendid initiative to welcome employees with special needs along with their pooches. The Harvard Business Review states that pets in a workplace can improve employee well-being. Perhaps this is why more and more businesses are becoming pet-friendly.
Greeting service dogs every day will offer a more or less similar experience. Follow the tips mentioned in this article and expand your workplace culture dynamically.