As our beloved companions, dogs already have important roles in our lives. This Friday, June 22, 2012, canines across the country will be adding "co-worker" to their job titles in honor of "Take Your Dog to Work Day!" Created in 1999 by Pet Sitters International (PSI), "Take Your Dog to Work Day" was established to celebrate the human-canine bond and to encourage dog adoption from humane societies, animal shelters, and breed rescue clubs.
Are you planning to take your pup to work with you on Friday? Follow these tips to ensure that you have a tail-wagging time together:
What to bring:
- Leash for potty breaks
- Your dog's blanket or favorite toy or other familiar items to comfort him
- Pet bed or portable mat. Encourage your dog to sit or lie down while you are working.
- A baby gate or portable crate, for your dog's comfort and your peace of mind
- Chew and puzzle toys to keep your dog busy and prevent boredom
- Food, treats, and water bowl. On Friday temperatures will be in the 90s in many parts of the country, so fresh water is key!
- Clean-up bags and pet-safe disinfectant (just in case!)
Avoiding office disputes:
- Take only well-behaved and housebroken dogs to work with you. Dogs that are aggressive, overly excited, or very shy should not accompany you to work.
- Check with management and co-workers to make sure that everyone is allergy-free and comfortable with dogs.
- Make sure your dog is bathed, free of fleas, and up-to-date with shots.
- Don't let your dog drag you all over the office. Your dog should be under your control at all times.
- Don't force your dog to interact with co-workers and other dogs. Ask permission before you allow your dog to greet others, and avoid putting your dog in any situations that cause stress or discomfort.
- Make sure your dog does not rush up to greet other dogs. Dogs have rules about polite greetings and personal space. What you may perceive as harmless friendly behavior could lead to an office scuffle.
While most dogs enjoy "Take Your Dog to Work Day," it is possible that your dog may become overwhelmed with all of the new sights, smells, and sounds. If your dog becomes overly boisterous, agitated, or withdrawn, consider heading home. Never leave your dog alone in your vehicle while you work, no matter what the circumstances.
