Many people love taking their dogs to work with them. It can be a great way to get some exercise for your pup and have them by your side all day long. We will give you some tips on making sure that you and your pup are happy and productive during the workday!
National Take Your Dog to Work Day is celebrated annually on the Friday following Father's Day to honor one of our most beloved pets. Wouldn't you agree that the most challenging part of the day is leaving our four-legged fur babies behind as we head to the office? So, when Pet Sitters International (PSI) suggested bringing them with us, how could we refuse? Dogs add a sense of levity to even the most routine days, so it's obvious they'll bring the fun to work several times over. Don't forget your briefcase and a doggie bag as you rush out the door.
Start with the Do's of Bringing Your Dog to Work!
Did you clear it with your boss and coworkers? Even if your pup will be staying in your office or cubicle, their presence might give pause to people who are allergic or afraid of dogs, so you must get the go-ahead from the leaders.
Bring a "doggie" bag! Make sure you're able to provide for all your dogs' needs throughout the day: food and water dishes, medications, toys, treats, a bed, poop bags, or anything else your dog might need.
They will be interviewed! Like your first day in the office, you'll want to ensure your pup is giving the team a good impression! Be sure they are freshly groomed with a clean coat so it shines, and clean their teeth so they have pleasant breath when they meet with your employer.
Keep them close! You want to ensure they are well-behaved and can stay with you at all times, on and off the leash. If you need to leave the office for a meeting or something, does your pup need to be in a crate so they don't get into things they shouldn't be in?
Now the Don'ts of Bringing Your Dog to Work
If they are sick, please leave your pup at home. Many people will bring their dogs to work; you don't want to get the other pups sick if it's contagious.
If they are not well-behaved, please leave your dog at home. A dog who jumps up on clients, howls in the middle of a meeting, or does its "business" in the conference room won't be an incentive for your employer to participate in future Take Your Dog To Work Days. Let's not ruin this for the rest of the team.
Not everyone is a dog lover, so it's essential that you don't "force" your pup on anyone. Not to mention, dogs have a great sense of their surroundings, and we don't want to have an incident in the workplace.
Why You Should Bring Your Dog to Work
Dogs set paws-itive moods
Many individuals love their dogs more than they like other people. Dogs provide us with unconditional love and company. They not only brighten our day but also lower our blood pressure after a stressful day. Taking them to work will get you ahead in controlling your job stress.
Dogs take the edge off
Dogs in the workplace create an atmosphere of informality and collaboration. They reduce anxiety by providing employees with a sense of comfort. Also, they offer us a great way to take mental breaks throughout the day. When we take these types of breaks, we increase our productivity levels.
Getting outside
Many people that work in the office don't leave the office all day. One of the pros of taking your dog to work with you is that they will need to relieve themselves throughout the day. This forces its owner to get out and get a little bit of exercise.
We love having fun at work
People who have fun at work are more likely to stay at work longer, be more devoted to their employer, and give their best consistently to their work. Bring Your Dog to Work Day holiday is a win-win!
Dogs enjoy working too
Our relationship with dogs began out of working relationships - they helped the hunter. Their resumes are pretty impressive – herder, protector, guide, service provider, sniff detector. Maybe they should be paid for going to work with you! Hmmm... Gonna have to talk to the boss about this one!
So, would you take your dog to work? The verdict is still out on whether or not this is a good idea, but we hope that we've given you some things to think about before making the decision. Remember that it's essential to consider your dog's personality and how well he or she will do in an office environment. If you decide to bring your pup to work, follow these tips to keep everyone happy and safe. And finally, don't forget to give your furry friend plenty of love and attention – after all, they are working hard too!
