Take Your Dog To Work Day: Tips For A Successful Transition From Home To Office

Friday, June 23rd, 2006 marks the official "Take Your Dog to Work Day" this year, and it seems more and more people (and canines!) are trying to get involved in this relatively new, fun, and exciting venture. This is a wonderful concept for several reasons. Most obvious is the fact you get to spend the day with a favorite furry friend by your side. But it also helps the dog. Spending time in a new environment with relative strangers (or even not-too-often-seen friends) can help socialize your pet, getting him used to new faces, smells, and experiences. And there is also the calming, soothing effect that a dog can have on humans as well! Studies have proven that people who own pets, or are around them frequently, are less stressed, happier, and generally more positively productive than those without animals in their lives. Pet therapy is a very real concept, and for good reason.

So you want to become involved, but no one in your office seems aware of this day? Don't hesitate to approach your boss with the idea of bringing your dog, but make sure it's done carefully and thoughtfully. Keep in mind some working establishments just aren't well equipped for an animal to be there, whether it's due to the nature of the job, the people that visit, or the building itself. If you feel you have a good environment for a "day with the dogs" where you work, then see how your boss feels about it. Let him or her know that you will act responsibly at all times throughout the day with your dog. Make sure your boss is aware that your dog is trained and manageable, and that you are capable of handling the situation.

Your boss may be worried that no work will get done; assure him/her that you will provide toys, water, treats - whatever will keep your dog entertained for some period of time. But, there is a reason this day falls on a Friday - it's meant to be a bit leisurely and relaxed! Perhaps you can offer to gate off a small area where your dog can go if he needs to be restrained for any reason. Having your own office comes in handy here! And make sure your boss knows your dog is fully house trained; messes on the carpeting can be a big turn-off!

If you do have permission to bring your dog with you for the day, be respectful of others around you. And be realistic. Don't bring your dog if you're having aggression problems, or housebreaking problems, or major anxiety/temperament/training issues. In other words, you need to be secure in the knowledge that your dog will obey you throughout the day, without any major embarrassments.

Is your dog well trained? Does he listen when you tell him to come? Does he know not to jump on people? These are things to think about before deciding to bring him with you. However, you can certainly expect some excitement from your dog being in a different environment, and getting extra attention.

If you do bring your dog, be sure to provide everything you'll need until you get back home in the evening. A water and food bowl (with food), a soft place to rest (a familiar bed or blanket will help make him feel secure), some toys and treats to occupy him are the basics. Don't bring any treats that are too messy or will stain the carpets - you want to be invited to do this again! If you are watching your dog's diet, bring along a bag of acceptable treats for others to give your dog. This helps eliminate too much overfeeding of the wrong type of foods. Remember a leash for walks, and bring plastic baggies to pick up waste. Never leave a mess on the company grounds, or anywhere in the vicinity. And ALWAYS keep identification on your dog, in case he gets loose or lost.

Remember, be responsible and keep a close eye on your dog. Watch how he behaves if other dogs are there also. Understand that some people aren't "dog" people, and give them space if needed. But most of all, enjoy the day! Have fun showing off your special pal - it's a day for fun and bonding.