Bring Your Dog to Work Day

I have two dogs and I love them both. Generally, speaking I like most dogs, but due to a fear of dogs going back to my early childhood, there are many from which I prefer to stay away. That's why I have some trepidation about promoting Take Your Dog to Work Day and have put off discussing it until the day before it is happening. Take Your Dog to Work Day, an annual event that is sponsored by Pet Sitters International is tomorrow, June 20. I'm concerned that people who can't be around dogs because they have an intense fear of them, are allergic to them or like me, love dogs in general, but get a little anxious around some, will have a difficult time if their workplaces become dog friendly, even if just for one day.

Pet Sitters International says there are benefits to having dogs in the workplace. It reduces stress and increases communication between colleagues, according to a press release. I can certainly understand that. Playing with my dogs usually calms me down and they truly are a conversation piece. When I got a new puppy and had to walk him many times a day, I met neighbors I had never talked to before. So, what do you do about your coworkers who don't want to be, or can't be, around dogs? What do you do about people who bring their dogs to work even if those dogs are poorly behaved?

In Pet Sitters International's press release, dog expert Arden Moore makes the following recommendations to employers considering allowing employees to bring their dogs to work:

• Establish a doggy business plan. Clearly identify and post the doggy do’s and don’ts for your employees. For example, adopt a “three strikes and you’re out” policy aimed at dogs who don’t behave.
• Provide a clean environment. Limit dogs’ access to certain common areas of your office to reduce allergic reactions and prevent dogs from counter surfing and stealing someone’s lunch or raiding the garbage cans.
• Embrace true dogma. Invite an animal behaviorist, veterinarian or dog trainer to give a presentation on canine manners, behavior and health issues to educate all your employees.

In my opinion, if a coworker seem truly distressed by the prospect of sharing his or her workspace with a dog, be respectful and leave Fido at home or in doggy daycare. If your colleague is willing, you may want to introduce him to your dog outside of work in an effort to change his opinion.