Seattle-based Amazon ranked as nation's most dog-friendly workplace

Seattle-based Amazon is the most dog-friendly workplace in the U.S., according to a newly released report.

The study, by the pet care website Rover.com, said Amazon's pet policies at its Seattle campus gave it the highest dog-friendly score of any other U.S. employer.

The study based its rankings on data collected from pet owners on what they value most, including the total number of dogs allowed in the office, dog and pet parent perks and office amenities geared towards pups.

According to the survey, Amazon supports its 6,000 registered dogs with an on-campus dog park and plenty of free poop bags and treats. The company also has policies allowing for pet time off, a pet adoption stipend and other amenities.

The benefits of a pet-friendly workplace are tangible and measurable, according to Rover.com.

"Today, 40 percent of all workers feel overworked and pressured, and dogs can offer much-needed relief in an office environment," the report says.

Phil Tedeschi, executive director of the Institute for Human-Animal Connection at the University of Denver, says having pets in the workplace is often welcomed by many employees, not just pet parents.

"The bond between humans and animals is good for human health and can build connections in the work environment,” he said. “Pets often allow for engagement and shared activity, in turn strengthening bonds among coworkers."

Three other Seattle-based companies also were ranked among the nation's top 20 most dog-friendly workplaces:

• Trupanion, a Seattle-based pet insurance company, came in at No. 3. The survey said it offers pet insurance coverage for employees as well as days off for pet bereavement. Trupanion also makes sure each office dog gets at least one walk per day by the in-house dog walker.
• Ookla, a Seattle-based Internet metrics firm, was ranked No. 14. The company allows dogs in the workplace, as well as pet time off, a pet adoption stipend and other amenities.
• RealSelf, a Seattle-based health care marketplace specializing in plastic surgery and dermatology, was ranked No. 16 by the survey. The company allows pets at work and pet time off.

You can view the entire survey and top 100 rankings here <>><>>