Do Tips for Bringing Your Dog to Work
Here is a list of things you should do before you head to the office with your dog and how to ensure your dog workday is a success:
Do Find Out if the Office Supports It
Don’t assume you can bring your dog on Take Your Dog to Work Day. Make sure management supports the special day. If they don’t currently have it, talk to Human Resources about participating.
Make Sure None of Your Co-workers are Allergic
Before you bring in your dog, make sure none of your co-workers are:
- Allergic to dogs
- Afraid of dogs
- Unsupportive of having dogs in the office
As you know, not everyone is a dog person. And depending on the size or breed of your dog, it may make some of your co-workers uncomfortable. If you are in charge of the event, create a space for employees to work where they won’t be around the dogs.
Do Puppy-proof Your Work Area
Before you bring in your dog, you’ll want to make sure your work environment is safe for your dog. Puppy-proof your space by removing any:
- Poisonous plants
- Electric cords or wires
- Toxic Items like permanent markers
- Pretty much anything within your dog’s designated area
Do Make Sure Your Dog is Office Ready
You want your dog to behave and look their very best at work. This means:
- Ensure your dog is current on its shots.
- Bathe and groom your dog.
- Train your dog to obey basic commands to help control them in the office.
- Keep your dog close to you for safety and minimal disruption to others.
- Determine if your dog can behave appropriately around the office. (If not, leave them home.)
If your dog can quickly become anxious, irritable, or aggressive around new people or experiences, then you may want to opt-out of bringing your dog to work. A stressed-out dog will be a handful to manage at the office.
Do Bring a Doggie Bag to Entertain and Treat Your Dog
To allow you to still be productive during the day, you’ll want to pack a variety of things to make your dog’s visit more enjoyable:
