Pet Bereavement Policy?
I heard this for the first time last week. Mike Rowe, a television host who has often spoken about the "war on work," mentioned pet bereavement policies in his concern over work ethic. My initial reaction was, "what?" "really?" My puzzlement gave way to rational thought. "Is this something we need to foster a healthy work environment?" "What does the modern worker need?"
It is true that today's workforce differs greatly from those of previous generations. As I often say, "my dad had a job, my sons have a lifestyle." They and their generation have redefined the workplace. And they have more pets. The generations entering the workforce are starting families later, if at all, and many of them, especially those who work from home choose to have a pet(s). Moreover, pets are treated more like humans than ever before. Just look at the number of pet grooming and daycare businesses which are popping up and TV, Podcasts, and social media traffic centered on pets. But pet bereavement?
Here are my thoughts. Overall I believe engaged leadership is the answer. Leaders can be empathetic but also highlight the need for people to be present to keep the organization running. I'm not sure a separate policy is required. How are we defining pets anyway? Does a goldfish qualify? And isn't this a slippery slope? Is it fair to those who do not have pets? What is next following a policy offering paid time off for the loss of a pet? People grieve over many things. A company could include pet bereavement inside an existing policy governing time off. An employee could use sick days to care for and grieve the death of a beloved animal for example.
I believe the key for leaders is acknowledgement and sympathy when one of their teammates loses a pet. Acknowledge the loss, offer condolences, then ask what they need. Strike a balance. Give an employee time off to deal with a pet's loss but encourage them to be present around their team for emotional support and to balance work and grief to keep their mind in balance. Check on them more frequently.
I've lost many pets in my life. The toughest one was our Labrador Retriever, Lily. She was the sweetest dog on the planet and our sons grew up with her. It hit my wife and I pretty hard but I knew there were people counting on me so I needed to balance my grief and responsibilities. As I type this, my Lab Duncan is by my side curled up on the couch. Duncan is another treasured pet whose eventual death will be hard for my wife and I. I'm sure when Duncan dies, I'll need some time away from work to care for him and to grieve with my wife. I don't need a policy for that. I just need a good leader.
Make it Personal!
Rob
Rob Campbell