If you’re seeing dogs all over the USA today going to work, there’s a reason for it. It’s PSI’s Take Your Dog To Work Day®! The “Take Your Dog to Work Day” was first celebrated in 1999 and was created by Pet Sitters International (PSI) to celebrate dogs and promote adoptions. Participation has been growing steadily each year as dogs are increasingly considered members of the family.
There’s a whole website and tons of resources associated with this annual event. There’s even an official song! Yep, click here, it’s the cutest thing ever! You have got to listen to it.
My little dog, Bella, comes to work with me everyday here at Little Pampered Dog Headquarters and today is no different. She is the Spokesdog, after all. Truth be told, she know’s she’s the boss. Though Bella is decidedly a dog of leisure, she has been coming to work with me forever. In the beginning, I kept her confined to a doggy playpen (until she figured out how to jump out of it). Now that she’s an adult, Bella prefers to spend most of her time on my lap supervising the work that I’m doing and listening in on every phone call.
Of course, with a dog in the office, there are some things to get used to such as timed potty breaks and feedings, barking when I’m on the phone and playing fetch breaks. But I wouldn’t have it any other way. Just having her around is a major stress reliever and she inspires me to do better. There’s nothing like the unconditional love of a dog to motivate us.
My wish would be that all dogs could experience a life where they were welcome everywhere. In the meantime, remember, that you can make “Take Your Dog to Work Day” everyday with careful planning. The website has some great ideas and resources. The reality is that an office full of dogs may become a distraction if not properly planned. Also, not all dogs get along with other pets or other people. You have to use your common sense.
Do you take your dog to work with you? Send us a picture and maybe we’ll post in on our blog or in our magazine!
