A Guide on Dogs in the Office

Office paw-litics: Your guide to bringing your dog to work

No ifs, ands or mutt-s about it. Your dog is the perfect companion at home – always by your side.

When you leave for work, chances are they’re right by the door, giving you that sad look that says ‘please please please don’t leave me’.

So you can’t help but consider what it would be like to take them with you. They could relieve stress on a ruff day. Boost office morale and paw-ductivity. But there are other factors to consider too.

If you want to take your dog to your ca-nine to five – here’s your complete guide to success.

Before you bring your dog to work

Research your workplace’s pet policy

If you don’t want to end up in the doghouse with your employer – it’s best to research your workplace paw-licy.

You’ll need to check:

• If your workplace is safe for your dog.
• What documentation is required – like proof of pet insurance and up-to-date vaccinations.
• What (if any) waivers you need to sign.
• Which areas are off-limits.
• Your responsibilities while in the office – you gotta finish that lab report, dog or not!

Chat to your coworkers

If you bring your pup in to work when any of your co-workers have allergies, fears or hesitations – they might not be so quick to fur-give and fur-get.

So have a conversation with your colleagues. Give them the de-tails on your pooch, so they can prepare too. Assuming all goes well, you’ll safely be the most pup-ular coworker on the block.

Consider your dog

It’s great to get the all-clear from your employer and colleagues. But take a quick paws to think about your dog – are they really up for it?

If you’re struggling with puppy behaviour issues or they’re territorial, fearful or aggressive – they may not be ready.

But if your dog can be calm for a few hours at a time, if they are well-trained and well-behaved – and you’re able to take enough breaks to take care of them – then it’s likely you’ll have a howl-ing good time

How to prepare to bring your dog to the office

Pack all the necessities

Here are a few things you should consider packing to create the ulti-mutt day for your dog:

• A comfy bed (unfortunately, we mean for them – not you)
• Favourite toys
• Dog food – and don’t forget the treats!
• Water bowl
• Collar and leash
• Doggy waste bags
• Cleaning supplies for accidents
• Any medication

And maybe stop by Star-barks on your way to work for a morning pup-uccino.

Dog-proof your space

It would be terrier-ble if all those wires and cords around your desk became your dog’s next favourite chew toy.

So the day before, do a check of everything in and around your office and remove anything important or dangerous.

For example, plants in the office are a great way to liven up your space. But they’re not always great for dogs. Be wary of possible poisonous plants – and keep them away from where your dog will be hanging out.

Consider other dogs that might be there

If there’s going to be other dogs at work, plan how you’ll introduce them ahead of time.

While there’s pet-tential for your dog to meet their new BFF (best fluffy friend), you should introduce them in a neutral environment first – like a foyer, lobby or outside space – to avoid any territorial behaviour or conflicts.

Give them lots of exercise

The morning of, take them for a long walk.

It’ll give your dog a great head-start to the day, reduce their anxiety, and keep them calm and content for at least the first few hours of the day.

While you’re in the workplace

Now, you’re finally at work – fur baby in tow!

But how can you make sure the office doesn’t become a Shih Tzu?

Keep a keen eye on them

Keep your dog in sight at all times. You’ve got to supervise your new collie-league!

Pay attention to their body language too. This may sound like obvious advice, but your dog will always let you know if something isn’t quite right.

And if you think they might get too stressed out, have an exit plan or alternative arrangements prepared for the day.

Schedule regular breaks

Take your pup out frequently for potty breaks – ideally every two to three hours. This will reduce the chance of any accidents, but more importantly, stop them from going mutts in a confined space.

Your lunch break is also a great opportunity to take them on a longer walk. Em-bark on a new journey, try exploring a new area or route near your office and make the most of the fresh air with them.

Clean up immediately if they make a mess

You probably remember the first day at your new job. New office, new people, new sights. Probably new smells, too.

Well, it’s the same for your dog. It’s a lot to take in. They may get overstimulated – and accidents can happen.

But you won’t be slinking away with your tail between your legs if your dog toilets on the floor. You’ll hold your head high, pinch your nostrils closed, and calmly clean the area with an enzymatic cleaning product.

Did someone say employee of the month?

Reward them for good behaviour

Most importantly? Keep it paw-sitive for your pup! Reward them with treats and shower them with love for good behaviour.

This way, they’ll definitely be feeling like they’ve aced their paw-formance review. And you’ll get yourself your own lil yelp-er at work.

Everyone’s a wiener!

Having too much fun and don’t want to stop hanging with your hound?
Check out these dog-friendly eateries and dog-friendly beaches to keep the paw-ty going!