Pet Sitters International’s 18th annual Take Your Dog to Work Day® is Friday, June 24. The holiday has grown in recent years with businesses opening their doors to their employees’ pets more and more, some year-round. The holiday highlights the positives of being a pet parent and the benefits companion animals offer.
Take Your Dog to Work Day was first celebrated in 1999 and was created by PSI to celebrate the great companions dogs make and encourage their adoptions. Goodnewsforpets wants everyone to enjoy a safe, happy and productive day by sharing some of PSI’s tips on how to celebrate Take Your Dog to Work Day responsibly.
Do an office check
Check with management and co-workers to see if anyone is allergic, afraid of or opposed to you bringing your dog to work on this special day. Be respectful of those you work with and plan an alternate celebration, if necessary.
Puppy-proof your work space
If you plan on working with your dog, make sure your office environment is safe. Remove poisonous plants, hide electrical cords and wires and secure toxic items such as correction fluid and permanent markers. If your office has received any pest control/extermination services, ensure there are no hazardous products accessible by your dog. Any office items in question should be placed out of paw’s reach.
Make sure Fido is fit for work
Even dogs don’t get a second chance to make a first impression. Be sure your dog’s shots are current. Make plans to have your dog bathed and groomed before accompanying you to work. Be mindful of your dog’s “work-readiness.” You know your dog’s demeanor, so if he is aggressive or overly shy, it’s best to leave him at home. Consider how your dog has behaved in the past around strangers before making the decision to bring him – if your dog has shown fear, irritability or aggression, or if your dog has never met strangers, the workplace is not the best place for him. If bringing him to the office is a goal, work with a trainer in a class or private setting first until your dog is ready. Instead, consider bringing a favorite picture of your pooch.
Prepare a doggie bag
Include food, treats, bowls, toys, leash, paper towels, clean-up bags and pet-safe disinfectant. If you are routinely in and out of your work space, consider bringing a baby gate for your doorway or a portable kennel for your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.
Plan your pet’s feeding times carefully
During an important sales call is probably not the best time for a puppy potty break. Plan your dog’s feeding time around your work schedule and be sure to choose an appropriate area for your dog to relieve himself afterward.
Avoid forcing co-workers to interact with your dog
Dog lovers will make themselves known. Sally from accounting and Joe in human resources may not want to play fetch or offer belly rubs, so be mindful of fellow employees’ time and space. To avoid pet accidents, monitor the amount of treats your pet is given from your coworkers. Remember that chocolate, candy and other people food should not be shared with dogs and that not all non-dog owners will be aware that these items can be very toxic to your pooch.
