The business setting is sometimes a dog-eat-dog world, but not on June 20 – that day is National Take Your Dog to Work Day, and thousands of pets may be headed toward the office instead of their own back yard. And that could be a good thing.

Studies have shown that taking pets to work can lower stress, increase productivity, create more of a willingness to work overtime and decrease employee absences. But according to Patty Hug, a veterinary technician at the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences at Texas A&M University, owners should think twice before introducing their pet to the business world.

“Very well-behaved, socially settled and tolerant pets are most suitable for the work environment,” Hug says.

“These pets will respond appropriately in any situation, whether the owner is present or not, and will obey simple commands.”

Hugs says the decision to bring your pet to work should be based not only on your pet’s temperament, but the type of job you have. “If your job doesn’t require you to leave a certain location and you are guaranteed a set break or lunch time, then bringing your pet to work can be a good idea,” says Hug.

Owners should also think about potential safety concerns.

“There will always be safety issues for both the pet and other employees,” she says. “Changes in routine can be stressful for an animal and it may react unusually in a new environment.” Hug recommends not leaving the animal unattended until all the co-workers have met the new pet in the presence of its owner.

“Logically, if the pet has been properly socialized with people and other animals, the pet will do well,” Hug says. “However, the pet will need a slow introduction to the new surroundings.”

If you are interested in bringing your pet to work, Hug advises owners to first make sure the organization allows it. “All businesses have a set of rules regarding pets in the work place,” she says. “If the organization allows pets at work, the person should first check with his or her immediate supervisor.”

In addition, some co-workers might be allergic to animal hair, and these workers might not appreciate a dog nearby.

After an owner is sure animals are allowed, Hug offers these suggestions:

• Ask yourself if your pet is well-behaved enough to earn this privilege.

• Make sure your veterinarian deems your animal healthy.

• Make sure there is a comfortable spot for your animal to lie down.

• Find out if there is a designated area for employees’ pets to relieve themselves.

Hug says that if your organization allows pets at work, it’s usually a good idea to take advantage of the opportunity.

Pet Talk is a service of the College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A &M University. For more news about Texas A&M University, go to http://tamunews.tamu.edu/.

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