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Companies are recognising that a pet-friendly workplace helps improve employee satisfaction, increases work-place culture and has a positive impact on performance. It is also recognised that pet-friendly workplaces can support the impact of mental illness and work burnout.
Understanding the rules of engagement when bringing your pet to work will ensure everyone benefits from the experience. Below we provide 10 helpful tips on things to consider if you want to bring your pet to work.
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Tip 1: Firstly, it is important to be sure that this kind of situation is something your pet would enjoy and that they will not find it stressful - not all dogs are suited to work environments.
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Tip 2: Ensure your pet is in a healthy condition. is fully vaccinated, up to date with flea, tick and worming treatments and can follow the basic commands.
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Tip 3: Seek clarity on the bring pet to work policy and what are the dos and don’ts
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Tip 4. Before bringing in your pet communicate with all the team members who are likely to come into contact with your pet. Remember some employee may be allergic to dogs.
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Tip 5: Bring in a doggie day pack with food, treats, bed, water bowls, toys and poo bags.
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Tip 6: Before arriving toilet your pet - this will make it more relaxed and ready to socialise with your work colleagues. Introducing your pet to everyone is an important part of settling them into the office.
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Tip 7: Tethering your pet in the office isn’t usually required as they are best controlled in a bed under the desk. However, if the office has cables, cords that may be dangerous, then tethering with a short lead is recommended.
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Tip 8: Plan lots of breaks so you can take your pet for a walk but also plan for when you will be away from the desk at meetings. Ensure you ask a work colleague to supervise while you are away.
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Tip 9: Always pick up your pet’s mess and over clean the effected area with the appropriate disinfectants.
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Tip 10: Remember to reward your dog for their behaviour in the office. Reinforcing good behaviour makes future trips to the office easier and more rewarding.
If your company doesn’t currently have a come to work pet policy, then here is your chance to positively influence workplace culture. Good luck!