For some, leaving their pet behind for a long work day can be a painful process. But, pet owners take heart, there is a special day designated each year when you and your fur baby can spend the entire day together – with your bosses’ permission, of course.
PSI’s Take Your Dog to Work Day is celebrated annually the Friday after Father’s Day. This year, it falls on June 24. The event, now in its 18th year, was started by Pet Sitters International as a way to celebrate dogs and promote pet adoptions from animal shelters or rescue groups.
Not a dog person? Take Your Pet to Work Week is celebrated the week before TYDTWDay (June 20-24). Need some tips or suggestions on how to plan your event? Visit www.takeyourdog.com a free 2016 TYDTW Day toolkit and find suggestions on ways to celebrate the occasion.
Seven Rules for Success for Take Your Dog to Work Day from www.takeyourdog.com
1) Do an office check
Check with management and co-workers to see if anyone is allergic, afraid of or opposed to you bringing your dog to work for this one special day.
2) Puppy-proof your work space
Remove poisonous plants, hide electrical cords and wires and secure toxic items such as correction fluid, permanent markers, etc. Any office items in question should be placed out of your dog’s reach.
3) Bathe and groom your dog before its office debut
Be sure its shots are up-to-date. If your dog appears sick, don’t bring it to the office. Dogs that are aggressive or overly shy should not accompany you to work. Instead, consider bringing a favorite picture of your pooch.
4) Prepare a doggie bag
Include food, treats, bowls, toys, leash, paper towels, clean-up bags and pet-safe disinfectant (just in case.) If you are routinely in and out of your work space, consider bringing a portable kennel for your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind.
5) Plan your pet’s feeding times carefully
Be sure to choose an appropriate area for your dog to relieve himself afterward.
6) Avoid forcing co-workers to interact with your dog
Dog lovers will make themselves known. To avoid pet accidents, monitor the amount of treats your pet is being given. Remember that chocolate, candy and other people food should not be shared with dogs.
7) Have an exit strategy
Although most dogs enjoy TYDTWDay, your pet may not. Should your dog become overly boisterous, agitated or withdrawn, consider taking him or her home. Most companies allow for this on TYDTWDay. Never, under any circumstance, leave your pet alone in a vehicle while you work.
