National Take Your Dog To Work Day

Hi everybody! Reggie here with some important news. Did you know that June 26th is National Take Your Dog to Work Day?

Bringing your pet to work is a fun day out for your faithful friend who longs to be by your side all day. It’s true – read my blog to hear about my neat day in the office.

Bringing your pal to work is also beneficial to you. It reduces stress and gets you to take a mid-day walk when you normally would be glued to your desk chair. It also spreads the word on adoption. Exposing non-dog owners to your special relationship with your pet can make them interested in adopting a pet of their own.

North Shore Animal League America and I encourage you to take part in National Take Your Dog to Work Day this year. Here are a few helpful tips I came up with to turn a possibly “ruff” time into a doggone great day!

	Get the OK before you bring your dog to the office. Make sure that the workplace is not only conducive to pets, but that your pet won't be stressed out in the office.
	Consult with co-workers, making certain that having a pet in the workplace will not be disruptive, trigger allergies or cause anyone anxiety.
	Plan ahead with co-workers who are bringing their dogs to work, so that space will be properly allocated and that it's agreed that everyone's pet will get along.
	Make sure your best friend has a good place to nap, play and eat in your workspace. Use a pet or child gate to close off the area and make sure others know there is a dog in the space.
	Bring a bed or soft blanket for napping. Dogs love dens, so under your desk may be a perfect spot.
	Bring toys so he doesn't get bored.
	Bring snacks, water and a water bowl.
	Be prepared to clean up after any accidents.
	Keep your pet on a short leash that you can easily grab in case you want to bring the pet back to you. If the leash is short, it won't become tangled or caught, or cause a co-worker to trip.
	Before you start the workday, take your dog for a walk or run to release energy which makes for a calmer start-up to the day.