Get Ready to Take Your Dog to Work
Sunday June 14, 2009
Friday, June 26th is Take Your Dog to Work Day (TYDTWD). Started in 1999 by Pet Sitters International, TYDTWD was created to celebrate our canine companions and encourage the adoption of dogs from humane societies, animal shelters and breed rescue clubs. In addition, this annual event encourages employers to recognize the benefits of pets in the workplace.
If you plan to participate in Take Your Dog to Work Day, you have just under two weeks to get prepared. An important part of this event is displaying responsible dog ownership qualities. Here are some steps you should take to get ready:
- Talk to your boss and co-workers. Before you can even consider bringing you dog to work, it is important to get permission from your boss (unless you are the boss, of course). Either way, the event should be discussed with your co-workers. Find out if others are allergic to dogs or even afraid of them. Make sure there is enough space for other employees' dogs and that everyone can get along. This process is especially important if you have a shared work space.
- Brush up on behavior. Basic obedience training is essential for all dogs, but consider a refresher course for your dog before bringing him to work. If he is on his best behavior, you will not only make a better impression, you may also may it possible to bring your dog to work more often.
- Be sure your dog is in good health. It is always important to keep your dog healthy. Before you expose your dog to other dogs, make sure all vaccinations are current and that your dog is in good overall health. A sick dog may not do well in the stress of a new environment.
- Gather the right gear. Make of list of the dog supplies you'll need. At the very least, you should bring your dog's leash and collar, a water bowl (and possible food bowl), some dog treats, one or two toys, bags for waste, and a dog bed.
Photo © Ryan McVay / Getty Images
Comments
I roof houses for a living. Everytime I take my dog to work on TYDTWD, I end up with quite a large audience watching my dog and me on a roof pounding nails. I tell people he’s a woofer.
I am fortunate to work at an office where all of us bring our doggies. The boss is a huge dog lover too! I’ve only had one bad experience and that was some jerk who came in and threatened my dog. My dog is very well behaved and did nothing to this guy, he was just cranky and mean. But my dog gets weird comments sometimes because she has Pitbull in her and there’s alot of people who don’t understand the breed and think they are all bad dogs. We’ve trained her well so she can change people’s minds.