MARIE-SOPHIE GERMAIN

By Marie-Sophie Germain

Let’s face it: the traditional office life isn’t for everyone. For me, working from home has always been the vibe—especially because my four furry co-workers make every day a delight. Yes, I’m talking about my dogs: a squad of tail-wagging, cuddles-obsessed pals who bring chaos, love, and some serious workplace benefits. Here’s why working from home with pets is the ultimate flex, with a nod to my star colleague, Blueberry, who joins me at my micro-apartment “real office” for some quality chair-testing sessions.

The Perks of Paws in the Workplace

1. Instant Stress Relief, No HR Approval Needed
   Dogs are basically walking therapy sessions. When a deadline’s looming or a client’s being extra, one look at my pup sprawled across the couch like a furry burrito brings my blood pressure down. Studies back this up: petting a dog for just 10 minutes can lower cortisol levels and boost oxytocin, the feel-good hormone. My crew—Blueberry, Yokko, Diva and Zara—know exactly when to nudge me for a quick belly rub break. It’s like they’ve got a sixth sense for my stress levels.
2. They Keep You Moving
   Working from home can turn you into a desk potato, but dogs? They’re your personal fitness coaches. My four-legged team demands daily walks. According to research, dog owners get about 22 minutes more daily exercise than non-pet owners. Those walks aren’t just good for my step count—they’re brainstorming sessions where I’ve solved issues or planned entire projects.
3. A Built-In Schedule Enforcer
   My dogs don’t care about my shifts. They do care about breakfast at 8 a.m., walks at noon, and dinner by 7 p.m. sharp. This natural rhythm keeps my workday structured. No more “I’ll just work through lunch” nonsense—my pack ensures I take breaks, hydrate, and step away from the screen for at least 2h every day. It’s like having a project manager with a wagging tail.

Blueberry: The MVP of My Micro-Office

While my home is the main hub, I rent a micro-apartment nearby as a quiet “real” office for deep-focus work. It’s my sanctuary—extremely cozy, serene, and just big enough for me and one very special colleague: Blueberry. This guy’s a pro. He’s mastered the art of testing every chair and couch in the place, ensuring optimal comfiness for our long work sessions. His feedback? A slow blink and a dramatic flop onto the nearest cushion. I swear, his quality control skills are unmatched. Employee of the Month—every month!

Blueberry’s presence in the micro-office adds a layer of calm to my day. When I’m grinding through a complex problem, he’s there, snoring softly or gazing out the window like he’s pondering the meaning of life. It’s a reminder to slow down, breathe, and maybe sneak in a quick belly rub between tasks. Plus, he’s the only co-worker who doesn’t steal my pens or leave dishes in the sink.

Why Pets Make Remote Work Work

Working from home with dogs isn’t just cool—it’s a game-changer. They boost your mood, keep you active despite the fatigue or the pressure, and add a layer of joy to the daily grind. Sure, there are challenges, but the pros far outweigh the cons. My four dogs—and Blueberry’s elite chair-testing gig at the micro-office—make every workday feel less like work and more like a collaborative adventure.

So, if you’re thinking about ditching the cubicle for a home office, consider adding a furry co-worker to the mix. They’ll bring the snacks (well, they’ll beg for them), the laughs, and a whole lot of love. As for me? I wouldn’t trade my canine colleagues for all the corner offices in the world.