If you’ve found that your furry pal has been your favorite coworker while you worked from home this past year, consider taking them to the office with you once you go back if your workplace allows it. However, before you load up your dog and hit the carpool lane, there are a few things you should prep and consider before you introduce your four-legged friend to your human coworkers. Here are a few ways to prepare your pet for a productive day at the office.
#1: Evaluate your pet’s personality
Truthfully consider whether your pet has the right personality to be a good fit for office life. Some dogs bark at the most minor sound, while others become an anxious wreck around strangers. If your dog is calm, cool, and collected in unusual places with strange people and sounds, they’ll likely relax in your cubicle and be the perfect companion. Brush up on obedience commands, like “Sit,” “Down,” and “Stay,” to help your pooch win “Employee of the Month.”
#2: Ensure your pet is current on vaccinations and parasite prevention
Sick coworkers are shunned and should stay home. Ensure your dog is current on vaccinations and parasite prevention so they cannot transmit zoonotic diseases or parasites to your two-legged coworkers. Bringing fleas into the workplace may end up in your permanent record, so keep your pooch on regular preventives.
#3: Pack your pet’s supplies
Bored coworkers disrupt the entire office, and no work gets accomplished. Pack plenty of toys, long-lasting treats, and food puzzles to keep your dog occupied while you work, and bring their bed so they can curl up and relax. If possible, take your dog for a brisk walk during your lunch break to help tire them out and prevent overexcitement when you go back to work. And, don’t forget to pack waste bags to ensure your pet is a clean and tidy coworker.
If you’ve checked off your list and know that your coworkers would love to meet your pup and vice versa, make one final visit to our clinic to schedule their wellness visit. That way, you know that they’re healthy and ready to hit the workplace!