In celebration of both Take Your Dog to Work Week and Take Your Dog to Work Day, the American Kennel Club (AKC) shared these tips with Goodnewsforpets about pet parent and dog workplace etiquette.
Scope out the Scene
Before you bring your dog to the office, take a look around and pet-proof your personal workspace. Keep all cabinets and trash cans secure. Remove anything smaller than a tennis ball or items those with sharp edges that are within your dog’s reach and could be of risk. Cover exposed electrical cords or outlets to prevent your dog from chewing them and getting hurt.
Ask the Important Questions
Find out if your coworkers are allergic to, or afraid of dogs. In addition to your dog being comfortable, you want to make sure those around her are comfortable too.
Be on Your Best Behavior
Your dog should be well-trained and housebroken before being brought to the office. Make sure she is socialized and reliable around strangers. If your dog is unnerved by changes in environment or social situations, the attention and strange noises associated with an office may cause your dog undue stress.
Health is Wealth
If you would stay home from work because of a malady, so should your dog. Leave your dog at home if she is suffering from a contagious illness. It is also very important to make sure all of her vaccinations are up to date.
Dress to Impress
Make sure your dog is clean and well-groomed before you take her to work. A dirty dog might cause complaints from co-workers.
Be Prepared
Bring the necessities with you, including a water bowl, a few quiet chew toys, treats, clean up bags for any messes, and a leash.
