Take your Dog to Work Day
The best day at work. Ever!
Ever wonder what your dog thinks about while you're at work? Well now you can show them exactly what you get up to, by taking them to work!
Set up by Pet Sitters International in 1999, Take Your Dog to Work Day celebrates the joys of canine companionship and encourages those who don't own a pet (yet!) to consider adopting one who has been rescued from cruelty or neglect.
Read on to find out:
- how to prepare for the big day
- some things to consider (for you, your dog, and your boss!)
- how to set it up at your workplace, and
- you can even set up a fundraising page to help homeless and abandoned animals all over WA.
How to prepare your workplace for TYDTW Day
TYDTW Day is a great opportunity for companies and businesses, large and small, to recognise the important role that pets play in their employees' lives. It also shows that they support the important cause of animal adoption and rehoming pets who need it most.
Before you rock up to work with your pooch, it's best to get permission first, either from your boss, or the HR department. (Who knows, it could lead to a monthly or even weekly opportunity to bring your furry friend to the office).
Things to consider before you take your dog to work
- Check with your office to see if bringing your dog to work is appropriate and allowed. Some work environments may not be appropriate or safe for dogs.
- Check if anyone at your workplace is allergic to dogs and discuss with them if bringing your dog to work would adversely impact their health.
- Consult with your workplace about associated policies and requirements.
- Ensure your dog is currently healthy so they don’t potentially spread any infections.
- Ensure your dog is identified (including by microchip and that your contact details are up to date on the microchip register) and up to date with their vaccinations.
- Only bring your dog if they are comfortable and safe around people and other dogs.
- Dogs should be trained using reward-based positive reinforcement.
- Ensure the office environment is safe for pets. Cables, cords and rubbish bins can be hazardous for pets, so ensure dogs in the office can’t access these.
- Supervise your dog and make sure they won’t be able to escape and get lost by accident.
Find out tips on how to make bringing your dog to work an enjoyable experience for all here.
Set up Take Your Dog to Work Day
If you're thinking this is a great idea, you're not wrong! While your dog will be making a huge difference at work, by helping productivity, creativity and communication, you'll also be helping to share the plight of thousands of homeless and abandoned dogs waiting for their permanent loving homes in shelters all around WA!
First, you have to get the boss over the line. If you're not sure about how to approach this directly, here's an email template you can send them which might help to start the conversation. Just cut, paste and edit before sending...
Next Steps
Let your colleagues know it's on!
Once you have the boss's buy-in, check who else is interested and work out who's dogs will be coming in.
Get the whole office involved
Work together to raise funds to help all the homeless and abandoned animals in care at RSPCA WA.
Set up your fundraising page
Send the link to everyone at work - put a price on extra pats and cubicle cuddles. Whack a premium on taking your pooch for a regular walk!
Share your pics!
Don't forget to share pics on your and your business's socials (tag us too #rspcawa) and show everyone just how much your canine companions mean to you!
