Seattle is a pet-friendly city and home to several pet-friendly companies including Amazon and Trupanion. This Friday is Take Your Dog to Work Day; before the big day arrives we wanted to make sure to brush up on some doggie etiquette! Take advantage of this special day and bring your furry friend into work with you – if your boss lets you! If you’re planning to bring your best furry friend to work with you, follow these etiquette tips so you and your pet can have a productive and successful day in the office.
- Do an office check. As a general rule, most companies only allow dogs in the office. If you’re planning to bring your cat or exotic pet, be sure to check in with your employer about what animals are allowed. Also, be sure to pet proof your office space! Be sure to put away anything toxic, tape loose electrical cords and place things higher up so your pooch can’t reach them.
- Make sure your furry friend is fit for work. Your pet should be healthy, well-behaved, socialized and house trained (If there is an accident, don’t fret, just clean it up!). Remember that your office will be an unfamiliar environment so use your best judgment when it comes to the well-being of your pet. It’s also important that your dog’s vaccinations are up to date before he comes in for his big day – if he’s not feeling well, let him take a sick day at home.
- Prepare a doggie goodie bag. Bring your pet’s bed, favorite toys, food and water, and lots of treats to help your pet feel comfortable. This will also help to keep them busy so you can do the same.
- Don’t force interactions between your coworkers and your pet. Not everyone is comfortable with animals and you want to be respectful of how they feel. Be mindful of fellow employees’ time and space.
- Steer clear of certain locations. Be mindful of your pet and avoid taking them in the lunchroom or restroom.
- Keep Fido close to you. Dogs should be kept on leash unless they’re in your personal office or cubicle.
- Come to the office prepared. Always make sure your dog is properly identified by having them wear their collar with an ID tag. If they do happen to escape your office space, having an ID tag will make it easier to help Fido get back to you as quickly as possible! Also, setting up a baby gate in the office doorway will help prevent dogs from escaping.
- Know your options. Have a backup plan for taking your dog home if he or she is not comfortable in the work environment.
Pets can be motivators in the workplace. By improving mood, morale and interpersonal relationships – there will be a noticeable increase in productivity. Having pets in the office can also help employees learn a healthy work-life balance, encouraging them to take breaks because their pets need one, too. Happy employees are better employees!