10 Things to Consider Before You Take Your Dog to Work

Friday, June 21, 2019 is National Take Your Dog to Work Day. This observation was first celebrated in 1999. It was founded in the U.S. by Pet Sitters International to celebrate the special companionship between dogs and people as well as to promote dog adoptions.

The national day event encourages employers to support their employees that are dog lovers as well as local pet communities by allowing dogs in the workplace for one day each year. This day is always celebrated the first Friday after Father’s Day.

Here are 10 tips to ensure you have a successful day bringing your dog to work.

1. Check to make sure your employer is on board.

Make sure management as well as co-workers are okay with you bringing your dog to work. Some worksites aren’t a good fit for a dog to spend the day; sometimes someone in the office has a severe allergy to dog dander. It’s best to double check before you bring your dog to work and plan an alternate celebration if it’s not going to be suitable. You can always bring your dog to Canine Campus while you’re at work if your employer isn’t on board for one reason or another.

2. Dog-proof your work space.

If you’re planning to bring your dog to work, make sure your work environment is safe. Remove toxic plants and pesticides, hide electrical wires and secure toxic items like permanent markers. Click here for more ideas on how to puppy-proof your space.

3. Make sure your dog is a good fit.

Not every dog has the right demeanor for spending the day with you in your work environment. If your dog is overly aggressive or shy, it’s best to leave him or her home. Consider how your dog has reacted around strangers in the past before making a decision to bring him or her in with you. If your dog has a tendency to exhibit fear, irritability or aggression, your workplace may not be the best place.

4. Be sure your dog is current on his or her immunizations.

Check with your vet to make sure your dog has all the immunizations and boosters needed to be in your work environment. Click here for more information about canine immunizations.

5. Schedule a bath and grooming session.

See to it your dog smells good and is groomed properly to make a good impression. Safeguard others from sharp nails by getting your dog’s nails trimmed beforehand. Want an experienced, gentle groomer that specializes in dog care? Check out Canine Campus grooming services here.

6. Prepare a day pack for your dog.

Plan ahead for items your dog is likely to need during the day, including:

• Food
• Treats for others to give your dog if they desire
• Water bowl (and food bowl if you need to feed your pooch lunch)
• Project toys (click here for more info on project toys to keep your dog busy)
• Leash
• Paper towels
• Clean-up bags
• Spray bottle of pet-safe disinfectant and cleaning solution
• Pet gate or portable kennel if you’re in and out of your work area

7. Plan your dog’s feeding times carefully.

Plan your dog’s feeding schedule around your work schedule so you can walk him or her within a half hour of eating. Be sure to choose an appropriate area for your dog to relieve himself in and clean up after your dog.

8. Avoid forcing co-workers to interact with your dog.

Not everyone enjoys being around animals, especially animals they don’t know. Dog lovers will make themselves known. To avoid accidents, monitor the amount of treats your dog is receiving and make sure no one gives your dog chocolate, candy and other people food that is off-limits to dogs. Too many rich snacks that your dog isn’t used to, or too many treats in general, could give your pooch a tummy-ache.

9. Have an exit strategy.

Although most dogs enjoy Take Your Dog to Work Day, not all dogs will. If your dog appears uncomfortable, is over boisterous, agitated or withdrawn, consider taking him home or dropping him off at doggie daycare. Never, under any circumstance, leave your dog alone in a car while you work!

10. Check your insurance policy.

Even the most obedient dog could become hostile in a new environment or around other dogs. Check to make sure your insurance policy would cover an incident should something unexpected happen (like your dog bites someone or another dog).

Bringing your dog to work can be a wonderful experience for you, your dog and your co-workers. Following the above tips will help you be prepared to have your dog with you all day while you work.

Have you taken your dog to work with you to celebrate National Take Your Dog to Work Day? What was your experience? Please share with the rest of the Canine Campus community in the comments below.