(Published June 29, 2009)
For the past few years now, I've climbed atop my soapbox at the end of June and encouraged employers to embrace national "Take Your Dog To Work Day," if possible. I'm not going to do that this year, though. I'm simply going to explain why bringing Benny, my six-year-old furry baby (a Chihuahua/Dachshund mix), to work with me was such a success this year and in years past. Benny has been accompanying mommy to work on "Take Your Dog To Work Day," as well as various other days throughout the year, for the last three years.
- My co-workers love him (really, what's not to love?!?). I am fortunate enough to work in a small company comprised of animal-friendly individuals. This year, a few co-workers asked in early June when "Take Your Dog To Work Day" was. When they learned it wasn't until the end of the month (it was the 26th, to be exact), they asked me to bring him in earlier too because they needed a "Benny Day." I was more than happy to oblige, with approval from the company president, of course!
- Benny has a calm, laid-back demeanor. He doesn't run wild around the office (much to some of my co-workers' dismay; they would love him to visit them in their offices). He's content to just hang out in mommy's office curled up on his blanket on a chair. Plus, Benny's not a barker. Sure, he's barked a few times, but I can count those times on one hand.
- I know my dog. For example, he doesn't like when people, aside from mommy and daddy, put their faces directly in his face. He's never bitten anyone who has done this, but I know it causes him to tense up, so I remind my co-workers not to lean in, no matter how tempting it is to plant a kiss on his adorable head.
- I have my own office, which allows me to close my door when necessary, such as when I need to use the restroom or need to make copies in the supply room. Whenever I close my door, I post a note stating: "Dog inside. Please do not open." That way, no one opens the door and either startles him or gives him an opportunity to roam the halls searching for me.
- There are adequate facilities to walk Benny. Our parking lot is surrounded by a grassy, woodsy area. And, yes, I always clean up after him!
- I get my work done. I'm just as productive on the days Benny is here as I am on the days he's not. In fact, I'm sometimes more productive because he has a calming effect on mommy. A quick Benny hug melts away all of my stress.
I am well aware that taking your dog to work will not work in every organization and that not every dog's demeanor is conducive to spending time in an office. But in those workplaces where the two come together, I think everyone benefits...at least, here at AHI they do.
Melissa V. Pomerantz
Editor
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