Take Your Dog To Work On Friday

On June 24, for one special day, thousands of dogs will have a chance to trade their bones for briefcases and their collars for collared shirts.

Take Your Dog to Work Day provides a unique opportunity for hard-working dog lovers to bring their well-mannered canines to the workplace in recognition of Pet Sitters International's special holiday.

Local businesses are encouraged to join forces with professional pet care providers, animal shelters, humane societies and rescue groups on this unique day to celebrate the human-pet bond.  

This annual event has become increasingly popular over the past decade and encourages employers to experience the value of pets in the workplace one Friday per year to support the pet community. The “holiday” was created by Pet Sitters International (PSI) in 1999 to promote animal adoption from rescues and shelters by educating the working public on the benefits of adopting a homeless dog and encouraging responsible pet ownership.

Supporters of this special day hope that once people see the wonderful, loving bond their co-workers have with their dogs, they will then want to adopt their own four-legged friend.

Participating in Take Your Dog To Work Day is a great way to boost employee morale and bring some fun into the workplace. Not everyone is willing or able to own a pet of their own, so having pets in the workplace can be a real treat. Studies have shown that a pet’s presence in the workplace is likely to lower stress levels, create conversation among employees and, of course, bring some fun into the workplace!  

According to the American Humane Association, companies that allow their employees to bring pets to work can benefit from increased employee morale and enhanced productivity. The American Pet Product Manufacturing Association conducted a survey of working Americans who are 18 years or older and found that one in five companies allow pets in the workplace. The poll found that millions of people feel that having pets in the workplace creates a less stressful work environment. According to survey results:

• 75 million Americans believe having pets in the workplace makes people happier.
• 70 million believe having pets in the workplace reduces stress.
• 47 million believe having pets in the workplace leads to a more creative environment.
• 37 million believe having pets in the workplace decreases absenteeism.
• 34 million people who bring their pets to the workplace, work longer hours.

Of course, not every pet is suitable to be brought to the workplace. Dogs who constantly bark, jump up on people, or tend to be destructive are not the best fit for the workplace.  

Here are some tips on how to make this annual event an enjoyable experience for everyone in your workplace:

• Groom or brush your dog before you bring him to work to avoid hairballs around the office.
• Only bring friendly and well–mannered dogs to work.  No one wants an aggressive or hyper dog in their face!
• Bring toys for your dog to play with so he does not get bored or destructive at work.
• Bring some treats for co-workers to give to your dog when they meet. This will be particularly helpful for people who are uneasy around or fearful of dogs.
• Be respectful of those who are not of the dog-loving persuasion.  Although it may be hard to believe, not everyone likes dogs. Some people are actually quite scared of dogs and have no desire to be around them, and their wishes should be respected. Don't pressure your co-workers into greeting your dog. If you don’t have an actual office or an enclosed area where you work, it might be a good idea to bring a babygate to keep your dog in your own private workspace

If you believe in the power of a pet's presence in the workplace encourage your employer to participate in this special holiday. PSI provides an interactive website for those who want to learn more about participating in this special holiday.