Bring Your Dog to Work Day: June 25th
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17 commentsSome people love the idea. Some people grumble about it. Regardless of how you feel about pets in the workplace, it’s back! Tomorrow, June 25th, is the official “Take Your Dog to Work Day.”
If your employer permits animals in the office, but you’re on the fence about introducing FiFi to your coworkers, consider that spending time in new places can help socialize your dog and get her more comfortable with new experiences. Pets also tend to have a calming effect on (most) humans. Studies show that having pets in the workplace can help create a more productive work environment, lower stress levels and aid in reducing employee absenteeism. A recent CNN survey revealed that 75% of people said they would work longer hours if they were able to bring their pet to the office.
Here are a few common-sense pointers to help ensure a positive experience for everyone involved during this annual event:
Pet proof your cubicle: Before your dog visits, remove all small, chewable items that could be a potential choking hazard as well as anything with sharp edges. It’s also wise to cover exposed electrical cords or outlets. If you don’t want to keep your dog on a leash, put up a baby gate at your office door to keep her from wandering off.
Create a happy home away from home: Make your dog comfortable by bringing in a cozy bed or favorite blanket where she can chill out. Also be sure to pack bowls, food, poo bags and a few treats to reward good behavior.
Keep boredom at bay: Give your pup a chew toy or other “job” to keep her occupied while you’re working. It’s also a good idea to designate a surrogate office pet parent to look after your pup in the event that you are stuck in a lengthy meeting.
Be realistic: You should only take your dog to work if she is healthy, up-to-date on her vaccines, well-trained, well-socialized and, of course, housebroken. If you already know that your dog can become skittish or aggressive in new situations, it may be best for her to sit this event out.
Practice good canine hygiene: No one likes a dirty dog. Be sure your pooch is clean and well-groomed before her corporate debut.
Be a responsible owner: Some of your cubicle mates may be allergic to or afraid of dogs, so never assume that everyone is happy to see your prized pup prancing down the hallway. Keep her on leash in common areas and always make your dog sit politely to greet other people and their dogs.
Have a “plan b” in place: Just in case your pooch doesn’t dig the office scene, arrange (ahead of time) to take her to a reputable dog sitter or daycare place nearby where she can safely and happily spend the rest of the day until you are ready to retrieve her.
Are you planning to bring your favorite canine comrade to work tomorrow? We’re planning to set Nigel up with a webcam to stream live video from the office tomorrow – watch for a special post!
OMD–how COOL~!!!!
we will be watching out for that video–i am so sure buggers will break lotsa hearts (women and men)~!
xo,
luna
I’ll try to sneak a peek at the webcam during the day. Technically, I’m not allowed at the office. The rules are a little flexible and I did spend a day there once, but it’s supposed to be for emergencies. To tell the truth it was boring after a while. There didn’t used to be a real rule against dogs in the office, but every since a Yorkie who belonged to one of the employees mistook the executive director’s office for the Boys’ Room there’s been this rule.
wags, Lola
Well, that should be interesting!
Ahh! How did I not know about this! Not so sure how Justice would be at an office, though
We talked about doing this at my last job once but never followed through. Some people thought it would be a lot of fun, others thought it was a really stupid idea. I loved it!
Somehow, the hu-dad thinks The Herd will not be going to work with him. Something about wanting to remain employed. Grins.
That would be fun but quite an experience 3 heelers we are sure…
The corn is actually chest high already.. They have been having a lot of rain in Wisconsin and the corn really likes that..
Big Sloppy Kisses
Gus, Louie and Callie
The hounds will enjoy being home with me on vacation from work tomorrow! *grins bigger than D.K.* Sorry, couldn’t resist!
I do take them to work on a semi-regular basis, though! It’s always a good time! I remember when Nigel went to work. I hope we get to see a repeat of that!
Love this day (and love the picture of you, Buggers)! I agree – you’re preaching to the choir here and can’t understand why more employers won’t allow doggehs to help with all the work!
Sorry we’ve been so AWOL – Mom’s been crazy with the pupper. I like her better now.
xoxoxoxo,
Sammie
Yes indeed! I look forward to watching the video!
My boss hates animals, so I’ll just suffer through yet another day of work.
We can’t wait to see the video of “The Office” guest starring Nigel! How fun. It’s a good thing Mom works from home – we get to go to the office all the time. Don’t think many other offices would like 5 dogs wandering around and Mom wouldn’t want to play favorites, would she?
Have fun Nigel!
The Road Dogs
I’ve never heard about it, but sounds interesting! I hope only responsible dog owners will take their dogs.
ooo, nigel cam! this will definitely be exciting!!
I am here!!!! Rockin’ the library world!
cute article! i actually also posted a blog about “take your dog to work day.” check it out!