7 Ways to Celebrate “National Take Your Dog to Work Day”

National Take Your Dog to Work Day may sound unique, but it is a thing lately!

It is a special day to celebrate pet companionship and human-canine relationship by taking them to your work.

Celebrate National Take Your Dog to Work Day by preparing them for the workplace, confirming with office administration, creating a dog-friendly workspace, taking regular breaks for walks and playtime, organizing dog-friendly activities, capturing the moments, and supporting local animal shelters.

Continue reading to explore how to celebrate this pawsome day!

How to Celebrate the Pawsome Day?

On 23^rd June of 2023, employees can take their dogs to work, for it is National Take Your Dog to Work Day.

Pet Sitters International started this joyful celebration in 1999 to encourage businesses to permit dogs in the workplace for a Friday once a year.

While many companies, such as Amazon, Airbnb, etc., support pet-friendly policies and welcome pets throughout the year, others have started allowing pets into the workplace.

1. Prepare Your Dog for the Workplace

Dogs enhance morale, reduce stress, and boost productivity, but preparing a dog beforehand is crucial when bringing them to work.

A well-prepared dog with good behavior and socialization adapts seamlessly to the workplace, promoting a positive environment.

Tips to Prepare Your Dog for the Workplace

• Teach basic obedience commands for behavior control through positive reinforcement.
• Socialize them with various environments, people, and animals, gradually introducing the workplace.
• Expose them to noises, equipment, and crowds gradually.
• Ensure proper leash etiquette, preventing pulling and disruptions during office walks and interactions.
• Consider crate training for a safe resting place, providing security and preventing distractions.
• Before taking your dog to work, ensure they are well-groomed, have their vaccinations, and are comfortable in new environments.

2. Confirming with Office Administration

Confirming with administration beforehand if they allow dogs in the workplace is vital when bringing your dog to work.

It ensures policy compliance, preventing conflicts and misunderstandings among employees or employees and the company.

Moreover, communicating with the employer helps both sides to address potential issues such as allergies and sensitivities, planning logistics, and other requirements to create a comfortable and safe workplace.

Things to Consider While Confirming with Employer

• Share your pet’s information, such as their eating and drinking habits.
• Address potential allergies or sensitivities among your co-workers.
• Evaluate if your workspace is suitable and safe for a dog.
• Ensure your dog is well-behaved, trained, and vaccinated.
• Inquire about liability coverage and insurance requirements related to dogs.
• Seek consent and respect the comfort levels of your co-workers.
• Discuss logistical considerations, such as designated areas for breaks.
• Highlight how having a dog can positively impact productivity and morale.

3. Create a Dog-friendly Workspace

Dogs act as social catalysts, enhancing connections among colleagues.

Meanwhile, creating a dog-friendly workspace is necessary when bringing dogs to work. It promotes comfort, well-being, and work-life balance for employees while reducing stress and boosting morale.

A dog-friendly workplace presents a positive public image, aids employee retention and attraction, and promotes responsible pet ownership.

Moreover, it encourages work-life integration and prioritizes the well-being of employees and their canine companions, creating a harmonious and fulfilling work environment.

Tips to Create a Dog-friendly Workspace

• Designate specific areas by creating dog-friendly zones.
• Keep dog beds, water bowls, and toys to make dogs feel comfortable.
• Ensure safety by removing hazards, such as pointed and sharp objects.
• Allow scheduled breaks for dogs to exercise, walk, and relieve themselves.
• Manage noise disruptions with strategies like white noise machines or quiet areas.
• Promote proper hygiene by sanitizing the area and cleaning supplies.
• Accommodate dog-free zones for co-workers with dog allergies.

4. Take Regular Breaks for Walks and Playtime

Regular breaks for walks and playtime are necessary when bringing a dog to the workplace.

These breaks provide essential physical exercise and mental stimulation, preventing obesity and boredom.

It will also strengthen the dog and owner’s bond and reduce stress.

It also provides socialization opportunities and promotes positive behavior between people and canines.

Things to Consider While Taking Breaks

• Check workplace policies to ensure pet breaks and follow guidelines.
• Respect co-workers’ comfort when taking breaks with your pet.
• Coordinate break schedules to minimize disruptions and conflicts with co-workers.
• Choose a safe area for your pet during breaks to ensure their well-being.
• Maintain hygiene by cleaning up after your pet and disposing of waste properly in disposal bags.
• Supervise your pet during breaks to prevent issues or disturbances.
• Be mindful of other pets in the workplace.
• Use pet breaks to recharge, but return promptly to maintain productivity.
• Follow leash and control guidelines to prevent pets from wandering.

5. Organize Dog-friendly Activities

Organizing dog-friendly activities in the workplace is necessary to promote inclusivity, employee engagement, and bonding among colleagues.

These activities may help elevate stress, enhance well-being, and promote a positive work-life balance.

Furthermore, it boosts employees’ productivity, creativity, and job satisfaction, providing dogs with essential exercise and mental stimulation.

By organizing dog-friendly activities, companies showcase a supportive culture, demonstrate social responsibility, and improve their public image.

Tips for Organizing Dog-friendly Activities

• Plan events like “Bring Your Dog to Work Day” or social gatherings.
• Create designated play areas with toys and equipment for dogs.
• Arrange training workshops to enhance employees’ understanding of dog behavior.
• Schedule regular exercise breaks for employees and their dogs.
• Celebrate dog-related holidays with themed activities or contests.
• Invite guest speakers or experts to provide educational talks on pet care.
• Organize charity drives benefiting local animal shelters or rescue organizations.
• Host pet-friendly competitions such as costume contests or talent shows.

6. Capture the Moments

Capturing the moments on National Take Your Dog to Work Day serves as a reference and reinforces a positive work culture.

It allows you to commemorate and share the experience with others, promoting awareness and fostering connections.

Additionally, sharing these moments can contribute to marketing efforts, showcasing a pet-friendly environment.

By capturing the memories, you create lasting impressions, celebrate the occasion, and highlight the benefits of having dogs in the workplace.

Moreover, you can also post cute pictures of the “Take Your Dog to Work Day” celebration on social media using hashtags such as #TakeYourDogToWorkDay. It helps to spread awareness about the joys of having dogs in the workplace.

Creative Tips to Organize Photo Sessions

• Choose a scenic backdrop that enhances the workplace atmosphere for photos.
• Coordinate matching or complementary outfits to create a stylish and cohesive look.
• Incorporate props and accessories related to the workplace for added creativity.
• Schedule the photo session during the golden hour for beautiful natural lighting.
• Capture candid moments that showcase authentic interactions with co-workers.
• Include co-workers in the session to foster a sense of camaraderie and teamwork.
• Integrate work elements like laptops or company logos for a professional touch.
• Capture action shots of your dog in motion to add energy and excitement.
• Use pet dental chews or goodie bones to engage your dog in the workplace.
• Consider hiring a professional pet photographer for high-quality and memorable images.

7. Support Local Animal Shelters

Supporting local animal shelters on National Take Your Dog to Work Day can be an excellent opportunity to serve canines if you are an animal lover. It also helps to advocate, influence positive change, and inspire others to participate in animal welfare.

Your effort can help rescue and find homes for abandoned dogs, promotes community engagement, and raises awareness about responsible pet ownership.

 

You can organize a fundraising event, collect donations, or volunteer your time to help those in need. Moreover, it will motivate your colleagues and friends to think about the welfare of animals and create a positive change.

Things to Consider While Supporting Local Animal Shelters

• Plan with the shelter to coordinate efforts and time.
• Organize a donation drive for supplies to benefit the shelter.
• Arrange fundraising activities to raise funds for the shelter’s initiatives.
• Explore volunteer opportunities at the shelter for employees to get involved.
• Raise awareness about pet adoption by inviting shelter representatives and organizing meet-and-greet sessions.
• Conduct educational sessions on responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.
• Promote social media campaigns to showcase shelter and workplace involvement.
• Share with your friends and co-workers to inspire others and support local animal shelters.

Conclusion

Ensure that National Take Your Dog to Work Day is a positive experience for everyone involved.

Whether preparing your dog for the workplace, seeking consent from your employer, or organizing dog-friendly activities, the key is to foster a supportive work culture that values the well-being of employees and their furry companions.

Contact Urban Pet Supply, a certified veterinarian and behaviorist in Urbandale, to uncover invaluable tips, ensuring a memorable and safe experience for you and your beloved four-legged companions.