What to Know about Bringing Pets to Work

The Importance of Proper Office Petiquette

Nov 28, 2008 Deborah S. Hildebrand

Bringing pets, especially dogs, to work can be great for morale; as long as employees understand office petiquette.

For anyone who loves their pet as much as others love their children, bringing their loved one to work could mean a lot. In fact, a recent SimplyHired.com poll showed that 49 percent of all participants who owned dogs said they would change jobs if they were allowed to bring them to work, while 32 percent were willing to take a five percent cut in pay.

“Take Your Dog to Work Day”

Bringing a dog to work is so important, that there is actually a “Take Your Dog to Work Day” sponsored by Pet Sitter’s International. Started in 1999, TYDWDay is an annual event created to celebrate man’s best friend and encourage people to adopt a dog of their own.

On June 26, 2009, businesses, animal shelters and pet-care professionals all over the world are expected to ban together to help make the life of dogs everywhere just a little bit better.

But while it might be great for some (70 percent who were polled see dogs at work as a benefit), there are others with allergies or a fear of dogs who don’t quite share the same view.

For that reason it is important that employers make sure that having pets at work not only fits with the company culture, but that a company policy is put in place before anyone takes the opportunity to bring Fido to work.

How Pet Lovers Can Observe Proper Petiquette

Even though a large number of people feel that bringing pets to work can create a more productive work environment and create positive work relationships, there are others who don’t feel animals belong at work. For anyone who is allowed to and wants to take their dog to work, here are eight simple tips to consider:

Keep in mind that not everyone love animals, so be considerate of others.
Make sure Fido is clean and free of smells and fleas before bringing him to work.
Dogs should be kept on leashes to keep them under control. Never let him run wild and wander as they might become aggressive toward employees or other pets.
All pets must be housebroken and their owners must take responsibility for providing their pet with frequent breaks – outside. Be sure to clean up any indoor accidents immediately.
Make sure to have cleaning up equipment, chew toys, bed, and a water bowl on hand.
Work comes first, pets come second. As fun as they can be, they shouldn’t interfere with employees getting their job done.
Know if it is not working out and leave Fido at home.

While many people feel that pets are a great way to relieve stress and boost morale in the workplace, it’s important to keep in mind that the office is not a playground. Anyone who chooses to bring their pet to work needs to keep in mind proper petiquette.

The copyright of the article What to Know about Bringing Pets to Work in Workplace Culture is owned by Deborah S. Hildebrand. Permission to republish What to Know about Bringing Pets to Work in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Petiquette