Nearly 1 in 5 Pet Parents Admit They've Lied to Their Boss for This Reason

For years, remote work changed the daily routines of both people and pets. Dogs got used to midday walks, cats claimed office chairs, and many animals suddenly had far more company than they had before. While some employers have pushed workers back into offices, not everyone is thrilled about leaving their furry coworkers behind.

It turns out many pet parents are willing to go to surprising lengths to spend more time with their animals. A recent survey found that some workers have bent the truth to avoid being away from their pets, while others have even turned down job opportunities that would separate them from their four-legged companions. The findings highlight just how much pets influence decisions about work, schedules and even careers in today's workforce.

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Survey Reveals How Far Pet Owners Will Go to Stay Home With Their Pets

According to a survey commissioned by Pet Emergency & Specialty Center of Marin (PESCM), nearly one in five pet parents admitted to lying to their boss to stay home with their pet.

The survey, which included responses from 1,005 pet parents across the United States, explored how work environments affect pet ownership and daily routines. The results paint a clear picture of how deeply pets have become integrated into many people's lives.

Among the most notable findings, 19 percent of respondents reported lying to their employer to stay home to care for their pet. Meanwhile, 32 percent reported feeling guilty when leaving their pet home alone, and 35 percent said they would decline a job offer if it required spending less time with their animal companion.

For many pet parents, these feelings may not come as a surprise. During the height of remote work, pets became constant companions throughout the day. Returning to an office can be an adjustment not only for people but also for the animals who have grown accustomed to having their favorite human nearby.

The survey also found that 57 percent of pet parents believe working remotely has improved their pet's overall quality of life. Another 58 percent said their pet seems happier when they work from home.

Related: Aldi's New Collapsible Pet Find Is a Total On-the-Go Essential

Those findings align with what many pet parents already observe. Extra walks, more playtime and fewer hours spent alone can contribute to a more enriching daily routine. In fact, pet-friendly home setups have become increasingly popular as people seek to create comfortable spaces for both themselves and their animals. Products like this IKEA storage cabinet, which pet parents are using in creative ways, highlight how home environments continue to evolve to accommodate pets.

The survey also sheds light on a broader trend: pets are influencing major life decisions. From choosing housing to evaluating career opportunities, many people now factor their pets into choices that once revolved solely around work or finances.

Of course, not every workplace is equipped to accommodate pet-related needs. Some industries require in-person attendance, while others have adopted hybrid schedules. That balancing act continues to spark conversations about flexibility and quality of life for both employees and their pets.

Interestingly, concerns about pets extend beyond time spent together. Safety remains a significant issue as well. Recent data on the cities reporting the most dog attacks on mail carriers serves as a reminder that responsible pet parenting involves much more than companionship.

While lying to a boss may not be the most advisable workplace strategy, the survey offers a fascinating glimpse into just how strong the human-animal bond has become. For many people, pets are no longer simply part of the household. They are family members whose presence shapes everyday decisions in ways that few employers may have anticipated.

Related: This 2-Piece Duvet Set at IKEA Is Otterly Adorable for an Animal-Loving Kid

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This story was originally published June 11, 2026 at 7:40 AM.