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APCC Alert: Should You Take Your Dog to Work?
![Take Your Dog to Work Day: Dog sitting at computer](https://www.aspca.org/sites/default/files/field/image/blog/apcc-alert-should-you-take-your-dog-work_062216_main.jpg)
Pull out your pup’s business-casual collar because Friday, June 24, is the 18th annual Take Your Dog to Work Day! Evidence suggests that businesses that allow pets have happier, healthier employees, so if your workplace is participating, we hope you’ll consider bringing your four-legged friend along. But before you and Fido clock in, the ASPCA Poison Control Center (APCC) has provided a few questions that you should ask to determine if this would be a fun and beneficial experience for you and your pet.
- Is there a company policy about bringing pets to work, and does your pet meet the requirements?
- Will any of your coworkers have pets close to you that your pet might not get along with, or vice-versa?
- Is there a safe place for your pet to be while you work, and can you adequately restrain them?
- Does your place of employment set out any rat bait or ant bait that your pet could get into?
- Does your job allow you to take breaks so that you can take your pet for walks and bathroom trips?
- Will you be in any meetings that are not pet-appropriate?
If you’ve considered these questions and decided that your pet is ready for the job, here are some tips to make your dog’s day a big success:
Check with Your Vet: Speak to your veterinarian to make sure that your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations, deworming, flea prevention and other medical care before heading into the office.
Dog-Proof Your Workspace: Hide loose electrical cords and wires that your pup could be tempted to chew, and stash potentially toxic substances like plants, markers and other office supplies.
Good Manners, Please: No matter how cute your pet is, constant barking can be distracting to fellow coworkers. Be sure to supervise your dog to make sure he or she follows good office etiquette.
Come Prepared: Bring your dog’s food, bowl, leash, blanket and favorite chew toys and treats to keep him or her occupied during the workday. Consider bringing a baby gate to corner off your doggie’s area if you anticipate being away from your pet at any point.
Break Up the Workday: Incorporate a few ten-minute breaks into your day to give your pup some fresh air and exercise, or plan to have lunch at a pet-friendly restaurant or grassy spot outside.
Have fun! If you’re bringing your dog to work on Friday, we’d love to see your photos. Tweet them to us at @ASPCA using the hashtag #takeyourdogtoworkday and we’ll share our favorites!