Take Your Dog to Work Day 2012

Get ready for some tail-wagging at the office because this Friday, June 22, is the 14th annual Take Your Dog to Work Day!

“TYDTW Day” is celebrated each year on the Friday after Father’s Day. Created in 1999 by Pet Sitters International (PSI), the world’s largest association for professional pet sitters, this special day is intended “to celebrate the great companions dogs make and to encourage their adoption from humane societies, animal shelters and breed rescue clubs,” according to the official website.

Ideally your co-workers will observe the special bond you share with your dog and be inspired to adopt pooches of their own.

Why Take Your dog to Work?

Need help convincing your employer that bringing dogs to work is a good idea? You can point out that studies have shown that having dogs at work can boost employee morale, increase productivity and even improve sales.

A 2006 American Pet Products Association (APPA) survey found that dogs are welcome in one out of five companies. Millions of employees surveyed said the presence of pets in their workplace had many benefits, including these:

A more creative environment
Decreased absenteeism
Improved productivity
Co-workers get along better

And your employer should really like this one: 46 million people surveyed said they work longer hours when they bring their dogs to work.

Tips for a Successful TYDTWDay

So you got your employer’s approval to bring your dog to work on June 22 – congratulations! Before the big day arrives, PSI suggests you make sure your workplace is prepared for your furry friend by doing the following:

Make sure none of your co-workers are allergic, afraid or otherwise uncomfortable with you bringing your dog.
Dog-proof your workspace. Remove electrical cords and wires, poisonous plants and toxic items like permanent markers. Make sure any potentially dangerous items are kept out of your dog’s reach.
If you are constantly in and out of your workspace, bring a portable kennel or crate for your dog’s comfort and safety. You should also bring a baby gate to prevent your dog from leaving your office unsupervised.
Bathe and groom your dog. Nobody wants a stinky co-worker, whether he has two legs or four.
Make sure your dog is healthy. His shots should be up-to-date and he should not be sick.
If your dog is overly aggressive or painfully shy, let him stay home. Bring a photo instead.
Prepare a care package that includes food, treats, bowls, toys, leash, paper towels, clean-up bags and pet-safe disinfectant (just in case).
Find an appropriate area where your dog can take potty breaks.

When your pooch is with you on June 22, be a responsible pet parent and follow these guidelines:

Keep your dog on a leash when he’s not in your office or cubicle.
Don’t force your co-workers to interact with your pooch. Dog lovers will make themselves known.
Have a back-up plan for taking your dog home if he’s uncomfortable.

We wish you and your pooch a very happy TYDTW Day. Hopefully everything will go so smoothly that your employer will decide to make every day Take Your Dog to Work Day!

PHOTO: Nathan Yergler

Amelia LeRutte

Amelia Lerutte is a public relations and social media expert, and a pack leader to a couple derpy Boston Terriers, a lovable Leonburger and a Keeshound. When not writing or promoting the i Love Dogs brand, Amelia is an avid NHL fan, ice hockey player and video gamer.