Making Your Office Dog-Friendly

Bringing your dog to work with you is something that most pet owners wish they can do. For some, it's already a reality, for others it will take some convincing before their boss and fellow colleagues will warm up to the idea. Chances are, that there are other colleagues at your current place of employment that also wish to bring their dogs to work with them. Banding together for this common cause is a good idea!

Survey Results

The America Pet Products Manufacturing Association (APPMA) conducted a survey of pets in the workplace and they determined that one in five companies allowed their employees to bring their pets to work. Contrary to popular belief, it is not only pet stores, pet boutiques and other small businesses that allow pets; a few Fortune 500 companies allow pets as well. Google is one great example!

It certainly will be easier to obtain approval from your boss if you present them with sound statistics. Thankfully, the survey that was done by the APPMA of pet-friendly businesses outlined the following figures:

* 73% of pet-friendly businesses state that pets helped to create a more productive working environment

* 73% of these same businesses also stated that the interpersonal skills of their employees improved

* 58% claimed that their employees often stayed late with their pets by their side

* 27% of companies witnessed a decrease in employee absenteeism

* 100% stated that they would maintain a pet-friendly policy

Most employers also commented on the fact that their staff morale and camaraderie also improved once they were allowed to bring their pets to work.

Persuading Colleagues

After you have gathered all the facts and your employer is ready to consider the possibility of allowing dogs at your work, your next task will be to persuade your office colleagues.

This will be easier on all of you if you establish guidelines and etiquette, for both the dogs and the workers. Keep in mind that it will only take one incident to cause a company to abandon their pet-friendly policies.

Doggie Etiquette

Here are a few suggestions on doggie etiquette, as well as general guidelines that you can suggest to your employer and fellow colleagues:

* Your dog must be obedient, well socialized and comfortable around strangers. If your dog is shy or aggressive, bringing him to work will not be a good idea!

* Your dog should also be healthy and clean. No fleas or kennel cough, please!

* Bring a crate, or bed, large enough for your dog to lay and play on, as this will be his 'space' whilst he is at work with you. Discourage him from venturing too far away from his bed or crate by providing him with plenty of toys and treats, or putting up a baby gate if your desk is inside an office or cubicle. Never bring your dog to work on days when you know that you will be in meetings all day.

* Remember to bring water, food, treats and bowls. A collar and leash are also a must-have! You will need take your dog for a walk every few hours and remember to clean up after him too!

* Be considerate of your fellow colleagues and keep your dog away from anyone is afraid of dogs or has allergies. Never let your dog in the bathroom, meeting room, or dining areas.

* Your dog is your responsibility at work and you should never expect a colleague or subordinate to take care of him for you.

Dogs In The Workplace

During the initial stages, your employer and work colleagues may find your dog to be a distraction. However, this will eventually dissipate as everyone becomes more accustomed to dogs in the office. As this starts to happen, the benefits as outlined by the APPMA's survey will start to show.

Photo Credit:johnonolan