On Friday, June 26, 2009, business, animal shelters and pet-care professionals from around the globe will celebrate the Take Your Dog To Work Day. This day was created to celebrate our beloved canine companions and encourage their adoption from humane societies, animal shelters and breed rescue clubs such as L.E.A.R.N.
Given that I work from home, the Lab Brats treat every day as though it is their own national holiday. However, this annual event is important to us as it encourages employers to understand and experience the value of pets in the lives of their employees. Take Your Dog to Work Day just goes one step beyond to not only recognize the valuable lovable dogs we already have in our lives but promote the importance of pet adoptions.
Here are some guidelines on making your contribution a sensation taken right from the Take Your Dog To Word Day website:
- Do an office check
Check with management and co-workers to see if anyone is allergic, afraid of or opposed to you bringing your dog to work for this one special day. - Puppy-proof your workspace.
- Remove poisonous plants, hide electrical cords and wires and secure toxic items such as correction fluid, permanent markers, etc. Any office items in question should be placed out of your dog’s reach.
- Bathe and groom your dog before its office debut.
Be sure its shots are up-to-date. If your dog appears sick, don’t bring it to the office. Dogs that are aggressive or overly shy should not accompany you to work. Instead, consider bringing a favorite picture of your pooch. - Prepare a doggie bag.
Include food, treats, bowls, toys, leash, paper towels, clean-up bags and pet-safe disinfectant (just in case). If you are routinely in and out of your work space, consider bringing a portable kennel for your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind. - Plan your pet’s feeding times carefully.
Be sure to choose an appropriate area for your dog to relieve himself afterward. - Avoid forcing co-workers to interact with your dog.
Dog lovers will make themselves known. To avoid pet accidents, monitor the amount of treats your pet is being given. Remember that chocolate, candy and other people food should not be shared with dogs. - Have an exit strategy.
Although most dogs enjoy TYDTWDay, your pet may not. Should your dog become overly boisterous, agitated or withdrawn, consider taking him or her home. Most companies allow for this on TYDTWDay. Never, under any circumstance, leave your pet alone in a vehicle while you work.
If you would like to learn more about this event and how your company can participate, please visit the official Take Your Dog To Work Day website.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Please help. My 7 mos lab puppy torn her cruciate ligament and has been limping intermittently. Should I go with the extra capsular surgery or TPLO surgery. The more I read on the web, the more I think I should go with TPLO, but my ortho vet who has been doing traditional surgeries for the past 20 years thinks that traditional surgery is the best option for her.
Please give me your input. Thanks. Thuha and the pup Chloe.
Thankfully, I have never had such a problem with my own Labrador Retrievers but have heard a great deal about the different types of procedures available.
My honest recommendation would be to bring your question to The Labrador Retriever Chat Board (http://www.lab-retriever.net/board/). I have been a member of this online community for over 4 years now and with over 2,000 active members they will be able to give you more feedback on the different procedures. These members range from Lab owners to Lab breeders and veterinarian – and we all come together to help with any and all Lab related questions or problems.
Please join the board and post your question in the General Health Issues area. I am sure they will get back to you quickly with very helpful information to assist you in making the best possible choice in Chloe’s care.
Best of luck and quick healing for Chloe!