Now in its 20th year, the annual “Take Your Dog to Work Day” originated with Pet Sitters, International. They instituted the yearly celebration of dogs in 1999, setting aside one Friday per year for the occasion.
On Friday, June 21, the organization encourages businesses of all kinds to allow their employees to bring their dogs with them to the office. The intention behind the movement was to let non-dog owners see first hand the special bond that dogs and their humans share, and just how much joy dogs can bring to any situation. The ultimate goal is promote adoptions from rescue groups, the humane society, and local shelters.
Should You Take Your Dog to Work?
Obviously, the first thing you need to establish is if your employer will be ok with you bringing your dog to work. Some establishments, such as restaurants, may not have any opportunity to participate; while others, like hospitals, will likely set aside an area where the dogs are allowed to congregate. If your employer hasn’t indicated a policy on the event, just ask! It is very possible that your boss or supervisor would love to bring his dog in as well.
If your boss allows you to coordinate the event, you may wish to consider planning a few fun events, like a group walk at lunch time, complete with snacks for everyone; or an area set aside in the warehouse that the dogs can run and play throughout the day.
Here are some additional factors to consider.
- Is your dog social and friendly? If your dog gets stressed out or agitated around other dogs, or simply doesn’t like meeting strange humans, it is best to leave them home. Showing off your best friend is not worth their peace of mind, and may even cause chaos. If you have an aggressive or territorial dog, they should probably sit this one out.
- Is your dog well-behaved and trained? It goes without saying that your pooch should be well trained, and proficient at obeying your commands. They should be able to lay down at your feet for long periods of time, and should absolutely by potty trained (for obvious reasons.) If you have an office full of true dog lovers and the barking isn’t a problem, you should be able to bring in a puppy, but leave them in a crate with pads to catch their accidents.
- Does your dog have all his shots, and is he free of fleas? Again, keep the health and safety of the other and humans in mind when determining if you should bring your dog to work.
What Else to Bring to Work
Preparing for Take Your Dog to Work Day is much like any other outing.
- Bring enough of their favorite food, especially if they are on a special or restricted diet.
- Bring any necessary medication.
- Bring a few favorite toys, a special blanket, or anything that will help them settle down when it is time for a nap.
- Bring anything that will make your dog comfortable and less likely to disrupt other workers too much. For instance, you may wish to put up a gate in your cubicle so your dog can move around but not escape.
- Make sure you have their leash, and keep them leashed throughout the day unless otherwise restrained.
Make sure you are considerate of others, especially those who are not dog owners. If your dog is obviously not doing well in the office with all of the other animals, you may want to ask for some extra time to bring him home. Do NOT leave your dog in the car for any length of time.
By knowing your dog’s personality and level of training, as well as being prepared with their favorite things, you should have an enjoyable Take Your Dog to Work Day – and your boss will allow it again next year!
For any advice as to obedience training for your dog, call the Sarasota and Bradenton dog training experts. Gulf Coast K( Dog Training.
