Office workers have been less than excited returning back to the office after working from home during the pandemic, but allowing them to bring their dog could be a way to entice staff back.

Take Your Dog to Work Day is this Friday 24 June and Dr Teagan Lever, Head Vet at Pet Circle, Australia’s largest online pet supplies store, believes it could be a great way to trial having dogs in your office.

“Nothing puts a smile on our faces quicker than seeing a canine companion trotting into the office alongside their human, ready for a day's work. Studies generally indicate that there are many benefits to having a pet in the office, including reducing stress and anxiety, increasing productivity, helping workmates connect and promoting mental health,” says Dr Teagan.

“Pet Circle has pet friendly offices, so our team members are lucky enough to have the option of bringing their beloved furry friend into work with them. We have entertained many dogs, some cats and even a couple of bunnies over the years and more recently, this has helped our staff feel supported as they return to the office.”

Dr Teagan adds that whilst it is exciting to bring your dog to the office, it is really important to first consider if they are suitable.

“They should be well socialised, responsive to commands and toilet trained. You should also gauge whether your pet will be stressed or scared coming into the office,” says Dr Teagan.

“Many dogs find it stressful to leave home and spend time in an unfamiliar environment. While crate training and proper desensitisation can help, the safety of your pet and colleagues should be your first and foremost consideration so you should not force your dog to be in an uncomfortable situation.”

To help dog parents prepare for Take Your Dog to Work Day, Pet Circle has launched a new Curious Box 'Pawpular with Pets' which features some of the most popular and top-rated treats and toys for dogs on the market and is perfect for entertaining your dog in the office.

Pet Circle Head Vet Dr Teagan Lever has also prepared a checklist for taking your dog to work:

1. Bring a lead, dog bed or crate, and a water bowl, and set up a comfortable place for your dog under or behind your desk so they can retreat and rest if they need to. 

2. Bring treats, including long lasting treats, and toys to keep them occupied and reward good behaviour, like being calm or staying away from out-of-bound areas like the kitchen. 

3. Try taking your dog for a walk or exercise before they come into the office as this can help with overexcitement.

4. Chat to your colleagues about potential allergies or pet phobias so you don’t impact their health.
   

5. Check with your work for any pet policies or requirements you need to adhere to, like bringing your dog to meetings, so you don’t get caught out.

6. Make sure your dog is clean and healthy, including being up to date with vaccinations and flea and worming treatment to keep them and others safe.

7. Practise recall and basic commands ahead of time to ensure you can confidently control your dog in the office.

8. Ensure that your dog is toilet trained and schedule regular breaks to take your dog to the toilet. Check for suitable locations nearby like parks or gardens beforehand and if concerned, you may wish to bring a puppy pad or pet loo or cleaning products in case of a mishap.
   

9. Ask someone in your office ahead of time to help monitor your dog when you are absent and to have another set of eyes on them, especially for their first few days until they become familiar with your work space.
   

10. Make sure your office is appropriate and safe for your dog, including tidying up dangerous cables and cords, pest control and trash bins beforehand.

For more vet tips and advice, you can chat with the Pet Circle Vet Squad 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.