News
Celebrate National Take Your Dog to Work Day on June 26
June 24, 2009, 9:18AM MT
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Bringing animals and awareness into the workplace
Bringing animals and awareness into the workplace
By Barbara J. Koll, Best Friends Network Volunteer
In 2009, more and more businesses are becoming pet-friendly. Owners and managers of outdoor restaurants and bars, hotels, parks, retail stores and more are learning that allowing pets in their facilities can boost their bottom line.
If our animal companions are becoming more accepted throughout the community, then why not expand that acceptance into the workplace? Pet Sitters International has been advocating this concept for the past 10 years with National Take Your Dog to Work Day (TYDTW Day) which will be celebrated this year on Friday, June 26.
In 1999, approximately 300 businesses participated in the first annual TYDTW Day and celebrated the joy of dog companionship and encouraged their adoption from humane societies, animal shelters and rescue organizations. In 2008, thousands of “pet-friendly” companies participated in this event resulting in a day full of fun for the dogs, their parents and the entire workplace. This growing annual event encourages employers to experience the value of pets in their workplace for this one special day and focuses on bringing awareness, not just animals, into the workplace.
A 2006 survey conducted by The American Pet Products Manufacturers Association found that nearly one in five companies in the United States allows pets in the workplace on a regular basis. Some companies allow pets one day a week while others welcome them every day.
Bringing your pet to work is not only an exciting adventure for your furry best friend who wants to be by your side all day long, it's also beneficial to you and your co-workers. Having your four-legged buddy beside you as you work reduces stress and gets you out of the office for a mid-day walk when you normally would be glued to your computer or desk. It also highlights the unique relationship between dog parents and their dogs to encourage co-workers to consider adopting a dog of their own.
Having pets in the workplace provides other benefits for both employees and employers. Pets in the workplace improves relationships between co-workers and between owners/managers and employees and can lead to a more creative and productive work environment. Employees tend to work longer hours along with a decrease in absenteeism when their animal companions are allowed in the workplace.
There are some important rules to follow if you take your dog to work with you on National Take Your Dog to Work Day or any other day. The biggest one is to take personal responsibility for your dog and never push it off on someone else—no matter what your position is in the office. Click here for more tips from North Shore Animal League America to ensure that you have a great day at work with Fido.
For more information:
Promotional materials and information on making “Take Your Dog to Work Day” a success in your workplace
Ten ways to celebrate National Take Your Dog to Work Day
Photo credit: MorgueFile.com