What is pawternity leave and why is it important?

As workplaces evolve to support every aspect of employee wellbeing, some companies are now introducing pawternity leave: paid time off for new pet parents. It’s a growing trend that reflects how employers are embracing flexibility, inclusion, and compassion at work. In this blog, we’ll explore what pawternity leave really means, why it’s becoming such an important benefit, and where you can find companies that offer pawternity leave as part of their culture.

This blog will cover:

• What pawternity leave is and what it includes
• Why more companies are offering time off for new pet parents
• The benefits of pawternity leave for both employees and employers
• How pawternity leave fits into flexible and inclusive workplace cultures
• Examples of companies that offer pawternity leave

What is pawternity leave? 

Yes, that’s right ‘pawternity leave’ (also known as furturnity leave) is a real thing, but what is it? It’s similar to maternity and paternity leave, hence the name - essentially it’s paid time off to take care of a new pet. Although not a legal obligation, it’s a unique perk that employers can add to their offering. And there is demand, with on average between 6-8% of candidates on the Flexa platform searching for roles that offer pawternity leave as an employee benefit. 

Additionally, almost a third (31.4%) of employees mention they would be more inclined to invest in a pet if their workplace had flexible policies that support this. 

What are the benefits of pawternity leave?

1. Bonding time: Taking pawternity leave allows you uninterrupted time to bond with your new pet. Whether it's a puppy learning to trust you or a kitten exploring their new surroundings, this initial bonding period is crucial for building a strong relationship.

2. Training support: During pawternity leave, you can focus on training your pet. This could include house training, basic commands, or even socialisation skills. With your undivided attention, your pet can learn faster and adapt better to your household rules.

3. Reduced stress: Bringing a new pet into your home can be stressful, especially if you're also trying to manage work responsibilities. Pawternity leave reduces this stress by allowing you to dedicate time solely to your pet's needs without the pressure of work deadlines or meetings.

4. Improved productivity: When you return to work after pawternity leave, you're likely to be more focused and productive. Knowing that your pet is settled and comfortable at home gives you peace of mind, allowing you to concentrate on your tasks without worrying about their well-being.

5. Employee loyalty: Companies that offer pawternity leave demonstrate their commitment to supporting employees in both their professional and personal lives. This gesture fosters loyalty and appreciation among employees, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.

Pawternity leave isn't just about cuddling cute pets (although that's a big perk!), it's about creating a supportive environment where employees can thrive both at work and at home. There are many other ways companies can support employees with pets, including creating dog friendly workplaces.

Companies that give employees pawternity leave

Employee perks have always been used as a way to create a unique offering that helps retain and attract talent. Benefits such as pawternity leave may not have always made the cut, but now there are plenty of workplaces offering it as an additional perk (including some big names); to name a few:

• Mars: Mars have a diverse and expanding portfolio of confectionery, food, and petcare products and services,
• Howells : Howells was established in 1991 to provide share scheme administration solutions for listed companies with varying and complex needs.
• Peak Peo: A people-led EOR provider, consistently delivering friendly, expert, personalised service and support to clients and their employees.

And there are plenty more flexible companies offering this puppy perk alongside other benefits for our fur pals, including dog-friendly offices (one of the most popular benefits according to data collected on the Flexa platform).

Flexible working as a pet owner 

Flexible working itself is a fantastic employee benefit that enables pet owners to give their pets the time and care they need - not to mention save on expenses relating to care. 

Being able to work at home or take your dog / pet to work means that owners can feel reassured they are in good care and are getting the regular exercise and social interaction that they need. 

Flexible working doesn’t just help pet owners, it helps our pets. Having spoken to the team here at Flexa, here is what they had to say about the benefits of flexible working as a pet owner. 

Maurice - Co-founder 

“When we first got our dog, I was primarily working in an office which was not dog-friendly, so I didn’t get to spend much time with him for the first 6 months. Flexible working has completely changed that, as I now work from home regularly, plus our optional office is dog-friendly. Thankfully, I now get to spend almost every day with the hound.”

Aqua - Operations & Partnerships Lead

“I get to go out for walks throughout the day with Leila, helping both of our physical and mental health; she also makes a great sofa cuddle buddy when working. Because she's not left home alone all day, this means myself and my partner can happily go out during the evening. It also allows extra time for dog training, meaning we can take her everywhere with us, even travelling and working from anywhere! If I'm working alone at home, she makes it feel a lot less lonely and she honestly warms my heart so much.”

“For Leila: she gets walkies, games and more walkies, she isn’t left home alone all day, gets cuddles, and is able to travel the world and in general just live life to the full - and, of course, makes time for creating TikToks with the rest of the Flexa fur clan.”

Fliss - Design Lead

“If I couldn't work flexibly I would never have been able to adopt our two high-maintenance rescues - sometimes they’re a pain, but I love them to bits.”