Interaction with dogs has several health benefits from lowering your blood pressure to elevating the levels of serotonin and dopamine, which help you to relax. Keeping this in view companies such as Amazon, Ben & Jerry’s and Google allow their staff to bring their pets to work. For the rest of us, there is Take your Dog to work day. As dog owners and dog lovers, we look forward to this opportunity to introduce our canine friends to the other part of their lives.

However, the onus is upon us to ensure that Take your Dog to work day is equally enjoyable for our colleagues and management. We have come up with a list of Do’s and Don’ts that you may find helpful.

Do’s:

• Talk to your coworkers and management: It may be difficult for you, as a dog lover, to understand that many of your colleagues may not be comfortable with the idea of a dog in the workplace. Some of them may be afraid, while others may be allergic to dogs. It is always a good idea to talk to the management and colleagues before you get your fur baby to the office. Ensure they give in their consent before getting your four-legged friend to work.
• Pack the necessities: Carry everything that your dog might need during the day. Make sure you include food and water dishes, toys, treats, a bed and a poop bag as these might help to keep your doggy happy and satisfied.
• Groom your dog: You would want your friends and colleagues to appreciate your fur baby as much as you would. Dress him up for the day; brush his teeth, give him a bath and brush his coat, ensure that his nails are clipped.
• Dog-proof your workspace: You would not want to spend the ‘Take your dog to work day’ stressing over the next thing your baby is checking out. Prepare in advance by dog-proofing your workplace.
• Celebrate the take your dog to work day with great fun and fare. You may want to organize a fundraiser for your local shelter.
• Check if there is a designated space for your dog to relieve himself. Think of a suitable place as an alternative. In addition, do not forget to clean the place post the activity.

Don’ts:

• Good manners and house training is a must. If your dog is shy around people or gets anxious in public, you should reconsider taking him to your workplace. If your dog is in the stage of learning social skills and you are worried that he might jump or growl at your colleagues, maybe, you should wait until next year.
• Don’t force your co-workers to interact with your dog. Learn about any areas where he may not be allowed. Carry a baby gate or a barrier to keep him confined while you are away from your workstation. Don’t make it a forceful interaction as this might aggravate your furry pal and it may be a complete showdown.

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