The Funniest Times Pets Tried to Join Video Calls

Introduction: The Unpredictability of Pet Interruptions

As video conferencing became the norm, particularly during the global pandemic, many of us found ourselves navigating new virtual dynamics—focusing on the task at hand, battling connection issues, and trying to stay engaged while maintaining professionalism. However, one of the most delightful and unpredictable disruptions came not from technical glitches, but from an entirely different source: our pets.

From dogs and cats to birds and reptiles, pets have a way of showing up in the most unexpected moments during video calls. These interruptions, while sometimes frustrating for the human participants, often bring moments of levity and laughter, helping us remember to not take ourselves too seriously.

The rise of "Zoom fails" and viral videos featuring pets disrupting video calls highlights how widespread and relatable these incidents have become. But it’s not just an isolated occurrence—pet owners around the world have been sharing stories of their pets’ hilarious hijinks during virtual meetings for years.

In this article, we’ll explore the funniest and most memorable times pets tried (and sometimes succeeded) at joining video calls, examining the personalities behind these furry, feathery, or scaly intruders and why their behavior is so universally amusing.

The Curious Case of the Dog Who Didn’t Understand the Screen

One of the most common pet behaviors during video calls is the dog who doesn’t quite understand the concept of a “screen.” While some pets are content to relax in the background or curl up near their owners, others are drawn to the computer screen with an almost insatiable curiosity.

Dogs and Their Love for the Screen

Whether it’s the dog barking at the people on the screen or pawing at the computer as if trying to “interact” with the characters, these moments are consistently hilarious. Take the example of a Golden Retriever who, during a Zoom meeting, insisted on sitting directly in front of the computer. The dog was so focused on the screen that the meeting’s participants were treated to the sight of a large, furry head blocking the camera for several minutes.

Not only does this demonstrate the dog’s curiosity, but it also reminds us how oblivious our pets can be to the concept of privacy. The people on the call, instead of being annoyed, couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of the dog’s confused expression as it watched its owner attempt to shoo it away.

The Dog Who Ruined a Serious Presentation

In another instance, a well-dressed executive was in the middle of a crucial presentation when his dog decided it was the perfect time to engage in a game of fetch—right in front of the computer. As the dog barked and jumped around, the presentation became a distant memory as the attendees began to focus more on the dog’s antics. Despite the owner’s best efforts to mute the dog’s barks, the lightheartedness of the situation lightened the mood, leading to a more casual, relaxed atmosphere for the rest of the meeting.

Cats: Masters of Disruption

When it comes to interrupting video calls, few animals do it as gracefully and dramatically as cats. With their unpredictable nature and uncanny ability to appear out of nowhere, cats have become the true masters of online meeting chaos.

The Cat Who Leapt Into the Frame

One of the most iconic cat moments occurred when a cat leapt onto the desk mid-meeting, knocking over the keyboard and mouse in the process. But it wasn’t just any cat; it was a particularly fluffy one who somehow managed to jump into the camera frame at the most inopportune moment.

The cat's graceful leap into the screen was both hilarious and impressive—much like a ballerina, only with far less coordination. The way it seamlessly slid into view, directly in front of the camera, left everyone on the call in stitches. The video call participants couldn’t stop laughing as they watched the cat calmly settle itself right on the laptop, seemingly unfazed by the chaos it had just caused.

Cats on Keyboards: A Typical Scenario

Another scenario involves cats’ innate love for sitting on anything that’s placed in front of them—especially keyboards. These furry felines often have an uncanny ability to hop onto the desk just when the owner is engrossed in a call. The result? An erratic typing session as the cat strolls across the keyboard, causing strange, unintentional typos or even disrupting the entire meeting by sending out random messages to everyone on the call. The human in charge often scrambles to regain control, only to be met by the cat’s unbothered demeanor.

The Unlikely Appearance of Birds and Other Pets

While dogs and cats often take the spotlight in pet interruptions, other animals have proven themselves just as capable of crashing a video call in unforgettable ways.

The Bird Who Became the Meeting Star

There’s something inherently charming about the quirky nature of birds, particularly parrots and cockatoos. Their vocalizations and tendency to mimic speech can make them both comical and startling during video calls. One memorable incident involved a parrot who, hearing its owner’s voice in the meeting, decided to chime in with its own rendition of “Hello, everyone!” Mid-discussion, the bird’s cheerful greeting broke the ice and immediately had everyone laughing. The owners were left to apologize as their bird continued to make small talk with the meeting participants, repeating phrases like “Good morning!” and “How are you?”

Ferrets: Unexpected Zoom Interrupters

Ferrets are another pet that’s notorious for creating unexpected moments of hilarity during video calls. Known for their playful, curious nature, these small creatures often dart in and out of camera frames without warning. In one instance, a ferret made a surprise appearance during an online conference, quickly darting in front of the camera just as the speaker was about to make a key point. The ferret’s inquisitive gaze as it sniffed the screen was so comical that the entire room burst into laughter, causing the presenter to pause and acknowledge the interruption.

The Iguana Who Wanted to Join the Meeting

While less common, reptiles have been known to make their presence felt during video calls, too. An iguana, for example, might slowly crawl across a desk or even hang from the back of a chair during an important meeting, causing those on the call to momentarily forget their business. One particular case involved a large iguana that clung to the back of its owner’s chair, casually peering into the camera as if trying to join the conversation. With its slow and deliberate movements, the iguana added an unexpected sense of calm to what would have been a tense discussion.

Why Do These Interruptions Bring Us So Much Joy?

You might wonder why such interruptions—often inconvenient—bring so much joy to those involved. Why are we so quick to forgive the pet that just ruined our carefully prepared presentation?

The Relatable Nature of Pet Antics

One major reason is relatability. Most of us have pets, and if we don’t, we’ve likely seen someone’s pet steal the spotlight during a virtual event. Pet behaviors are unpredictable, and often those unplanned moments are the most memorable. We all share a sense of understanding that pets simply do not comprehend the importance of video calls, and that makes their actions all the more endearing.

The Need for Humor in Stressful Situations

Another reason is the need for humor in stressful or tense situations. Video calls, especially work-related ones, can be intense, with many participants feeling the pressure of needing to stay professional or focused. A sudden pet interruption can offer a much-needed break from the seriousness, lightening the mood and reminding us that life is unpredictable.

Bringing Joy to the Workplace

Finally, these interruptions often serve as icebreakers. When a pet shows up on a call, it often leads to spontaneous conversation and shared laughter, providing a sense of camaraderie among coworkers or clients. It’s a reminder that we’re all human (or, in this case, all pet owners), and a little levity can go a long way in building relationships.

The Rise of "Pet Cameos" in the Workplace

As pet interruptions become more frequent, many organizations have embraced the idea of “pet cameos” in video calls. Some companies even schedule time for employees to introduce their pets to the rest of the team as part of a virtual team-building exercise.

The Shift in Workplace Culture

What started as an unexpected and often funny disruption has evolved into a celebrated part of virtual meetings. Some companies now feature pet-friendly policies during online meetings, encouraging employees to let their pets join in. This has helped to humanize the virtual work experience, allowing employees to bring their personal lives into the professional sphere and creating a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere.

Making Pets a Part of Team Bonding

In some cases, employees have even made their pets part of the team-building process. Virtual meetings might include "Pet Show-and-Tell" segments, where each team member introduces their pet to others. Not only does this give the team a chance to bond, but it also allows pets to become part of the workplace culture, making remote work feel a little less isolating.

The Impact of Pets on Remote Work and Video Call Etiquette

The growing prevalence of pet interruptions has led to changes in the way people approach video call etiquette. Rather than being upset or flustered when a pet makes an appearance, many people now embrace it with good humor.

New Social Norms

In fact, pet interruptions have given rise to a new set of social norms. Participants are more likely to joke about their pets’ behavior, and hosts often include a disclaimer at the beginning of a meeting, acknowledging that pets may make an appearance. This has helped to normalize these interruptions, turning them into a source of amusement rather than an inconvenience.

The Rise of "Pet Cameos" in the Workplace

As pet interruptions become more frequent, many organizations have embraced the idea of “pet cameos” in video calls. Some companies even schedule time for employees to introduce their pets to the rest of the team as part of a virtual team-building exercise. This shift in perspective has made pets not just unwelcome distractions, but beloved participants in the remote work experience.

The Shift in Workplace Culture

What began as a series of accidental interruptions has now grown into an intentional part of remote work culture. At first, those funny or frustrating pet appearances would often be met with awkward apologies. However, as the months of remote work stretched on and video conferencing became a part of the everyday routine, people began to adapt, seeing these moments as opportunities for levity rather than disruptions. The frustration of a cat walking across the keyboard during a serious discussion or a dog barking during a conference call now seems almost quaint—a reminder of the simple joys pets bring to our lives.

In fact, some organizations have taken the shift a step further. More relaxed policies have emerged that encourage pets to make appearances on screen. Some businesses hold “Bring Your Pet to Work” days (virtually, of course), where team members can introduce their pets to colleagues in a lighthearted manner. This could mean a quick cameo from a dog, a cat curling up on the desk, or even a more exotic pet making its appearance—anything goes.

This more relaxed atmosphere encourages creativity, bonding, and improved morale, making remote work feel less isolating. It’s a clear break from the rigid, traditional office structure, where pets were generally frowned upon.

Making Pets a Part of Team Bonding

During the height of the pandemic, companies were looking for ways to keep morale high while employees worked from home. One method was virtual team-building exercises. In addition to ice-breaker activities and trivia games, pets became an integral part of these activities. Some companies introduced “pet show-and-tell” segments during their meetings. These informal sessions became a way for people to bond over their shared love of animals, creating a more inclusive and empathetic work culture.

Employees were able to virtually meet each other’s furry companions, which helped build connections that might have been difficult to form otherwise. It also gave employees a chance to share personal stories about their pets and how they were adapting to the changes in their lives. For example, one remote employee introduced his pet bird, a colorful parrot named “Mango,” who had a habit of mimicking their colleagues' voices. Another employee shared the story of their dog, who had a unique habit of “attending” meetings by lying in front of the camera.

Rather than creating awkwardness, these moments helped break the ice, especially in environments where employees didn’t know each other well or hadn’t met in person. By making pets an accepted part of the virtual workplace, companies fostered a sense of togetherness and improved team dynamics—helping employees feel more connected to one another in a time when physical interactions were limited.

The Impact of Pets on Remote Work and Video Call Etiquette

The growing prevalence of pet interruptions has led to changes in the way people approach video call etiquette. The shift in attitudes toward pets during calls—accepting them as part of the experience rather than an unwelcome distraction—has resulted in new social norms for virtual meetings. Instead of growing frustrated when a dog barks in the background or a cat jumps onto a desk mid-presentation, employees are now more likely to embrace it with a sense of humor.

New Social Norms

Rather than awkwardly attempting to hide their pets off-screen or muting their microphones at the slightest bark or meow, many video call hosts now include a gentle reminder at the start of meetings. This disclaimer might sound like, “Please forgive any unexpected furry visitors” or “We’re a pet-friendly workplace, so you may hear a dog barking or a cat making an appearance.” This creates an atmosphere of understanding and encourages participants to embrace the interruptions as part of the virtual meeting experience.

It’s not just about being tolerant of these moments but about celebrating them. If a cat walks across the screen or a dog starts barking excitedly, the host might say something lighthearted like, “Looks like we have a new team member!” This helps to keep the mood light and encourages all participants to relax, rather than stressing about the disruption.

The presence of pets during calls has also led to more relaxed dress codes. While many companies maintain a formal dress policy for employees, pet owners have found that wearing something cozy, like a casual sweater or hoodie, is just fine as long as their pets are present in the frame. In fact, employees often humorously dress their pets in tiny outfits to match the theme of the meeting.

Additionally, people are more understanding about background noise. While in-person meetings would often require complete silence and full focus, virtual calls have created a new expectation: lighthearted interruptions, such as pets barking or meowing, are part of the deal. This makes for a more relaxed approach to remote work, where employees don’t have to worry about being judged if their pet makes a cameo appearance.

Benefits of Having Pets in Video Calls

1. Boosting Team Morale: As mentioned, pet interruptions often lead to laughter and joy, which is an excellent way to boost morale during otherwise stressful or routine meetings. Even if a meeting topic is particularly dull or serious, a surprise visit from a pet can liven up the atmosphere and help everyone feel more at ease.
2. Encouraging Creativity: Pet cameos can also spark creativity. For instance, a dog or cat might show up in the background when an employee is brainstorming, prompting new ideas or thoughts. This playful energy can help colleagues to feel more at ease and open to creative suggestions. Pet appearances might even inspire new branding strategies, pet-themed meetings, or playful work initiatives.
3. Strengthening Social Bonds: Virtual meetings can often feel isolating, especially when employees are scattered across different locations. Pets help humanize the experience and foster connection. Whether it’s a funny pet mishap or a sweet moment shared between a pet and their owner, these instances can act as emotional touchpoints, making employees feel more connected to one another.
4. Helping to Reduce Stress: Studies have shown that being around animals can help reduce stress levels. The same principle applies during video calls—when employees see a pet lounging comfortably in front of the screen, it’s hard not to smile and feel a sense of calm. Instead of focusing on high-stakes presentations or tense discussions, the moment of joy provided by a pet can temporarily relieve stress, creating a more positive environment overall.

Pet-Friendly Workplaces: A Growing Trend

The trend of pet-friendly workplaces is gaining traction, not just in virtual meetings but in physical office spaces as well. Some companies are embracing the idea of bringing pets to the office, recognizing the mental health benefits and the positive impact they can have on employee engagement and productivity.

Pets as Stress-Relief Agents

Many companies have started introducing pet-friendly policies, allowing employees to bring their dogs, cats, or even smaller pets like hamsters or rabbits to work. Having pets around the office provides employees with the opportunity to take short breaks and play with their pets, offering a much-needed mental reset in between meetings or projects.

Studies have shown that the presence of pets can help reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and loneliness, and employees who are allowed to bring their pets to work often report higher job satisfaction. When employees feel comfortable and supported, they’re more likely to be productive and engaged.

Pet-Focused Meetings

While the trend of allowing pets in the physical workplace is still relatively new, it’s not unusual for companies to host virtual meetings that specifically focus on employees’ pets. This can happen in a more structured way, such as with “pet talent shows” or “pet trivia” games during team-building days, or simply through informal check-ins where employees talk about their pets’ quirks and funny habits. These moments are often a great way for people to relax and enjoy a sense of community with their coworkers.

As the trend continues to grow, it’s clear that pets are becoming an integral part of the modern workplace. Whether they’re making surprise appearances on video calls, offering stress relief during workdays, or helping employees bond over shared love for their animals, pets are here to stay—and they’re likely to continue disrupting our professional lives in the most charming ways possible.

Conclusion:

Pets have brought an unexpected but delightful new dynamic to the remote work culture. Their sudden appearances during video calls—whether they’re crashing important meetings, leaping in front of the screen, or simply lounging nearby—have lightened the mood and brought joy to what would otherwise be routine, sometimes even stressful, virtual interactions.

The rise of pet-friendly meetings and workplace policies demonstrates how pets can not only disrupt but enhance the experience of working from home. From fostering camaraderie to reducing stress, pets help create a more humanized, comfortable, and even more creative remote work environment. This new normal—where pets are more than just background noise, but rather the unexpected stars of the show—has broken down barriers and created deeper connections among colleagues. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most chaotic moments can bring the most laughter and bonding, turning a simple interruption into a cherished moment.

As businesses continue to embrace flexible working environments, the presence of pets—whether on video calls or in the office—will likely remain a beloved part of the workplace culture. Pet cameos, once seen as distractions, have evolved into a symbol of the personal and human side of professional life. And as we move forward, we’ll likely see even more pets becoming part of the corporate world’s daily rituals, making the workplace feel more relaxed, joyful, and inclusive.

Q&A

Q1: Why do pets interrupt video calls so frequently?

A1: Pets often seek attention from their owners or are curious about the noises and movement on the screen, which can prompt them to jump in front of the camera or interact with the environment during video calls.

Q2: How do video call disruptions from pets affect remote work?

A2: These disruptions often create moments of humor, reducing stress, and making virtual meetings feel more relaxed. They help build rapport between colleagues and can foster a more inclusive, laid-back work environment.

Q3: Are pets becoming more accepted in virtual workspaces?

A3: Yes, many companies are now embracing pets as part of the virtual work experience, seeing their presence as a fun way to break the ice, foster connections, and add a human touch to remote meetings.

Q4: Can pets improve the overall mood during video calls?

A4: Absolutely! The spontaneous presence of a pet during a call often lightens the mood, bringing humor and joy to what might otherwise be a serious or tense discussion, creating a more positive atmosphere.

Q5: What should I do if my pet disrupts an important meeting?

A5: The best approach is to handle it with humor. Mute your mic if needed, quickly remove the pet if necessary, and apologize lightly. Most people will appreciate the break from the seriousness.

Q6: Do companies encourage pets during video calls?

A6: Some companies actively encourage pet appearances during virtual meetings. They may organize pet-friendly events or simply allow employees to introduce their pets to colleagues, which has been shown to strengthen team morale.

Q7: What are some memorable pet moments during video calls?

A7: Memorable moments include pets hopping onto desks, knocking over items, or getting too close to the camera. In one viral case, a dog barked repeatedly at the screen, prompting laughter from everyone involved.

Q8: Are there any downsides to having pets interrupt video calls?

A8: While most interruptions are lighthearted, some can cause distractions or take away from the focus of the meeting. It's important to ensure that the pet interruptions don’t become disruptive to the flow of important discussions.

Q9: Can pets help with team-building activities in remote work environments?

A9: Yes! Pet show-and-tell sessions or simply allowing employees to introduce their pets to the team can be an excellent way to build rapport, improve team dynamics, and provide a fun break from work tasks.

Q10: How can pets help with reducing stress during video calls?

A10: The presence of pets has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress. Their unpredictable antics during calls provide a welcome distraction from the pressure of work, helping employees relax and enjoy their interactions more.